SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS CLASS OF 2018
The Education Foundation and Billings Gazette Communications are proud to honor businesses that support education in our community and the students how have achieved the status of Valedictorian in their high school. INSIDE Partnerships in Action..........3-6 Partners in Education ..........7-8 Excellence in Education..... 9-10 Meet the Valedictorians ... 11-24 Salute to Valedictorians is a special advertising publication of The Billings Gazette
Advertising Director Ryan Brosseau Advertising Manager Arcadea Scott Special Sections Coordinators Teresa Cox, Angie Wagner, Mo Lucas Access Salute to Valedictorians 2018 at www.billingsgazette.com/specialsections 2
APRIL 2018 | SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018
Partners Salute 2018 What are the benefits of a partnership?
What is Partners in Education?
Partners in Education is a community-wide partnership between schools, businesses, and community members dedicated to ensuring the success of all K-12 students and schools in the Billings area. Partners in Education is a program of the Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools.
What is the goal of Partners in Education?
The goal of Partners in Education is to build mutually benefiting partnerships between schools and businesses that result in school improvement, teaching excellence, student achievement, and appreciation of common community goals.
What kinds of partnerships are there?
There are many ways that organizations and businesses can participate in a partnership with the schools in Billings. Each partnership is unique, depending upon the capacity of the business and the needs of the school. Example activities include: Tutoring or mentoring students Providing incentives for students and faculty Speaking at a Career Day or other classroom event Donating in-kind services, materials, or equipment Volunteering as contest judges, field trip chaperones, or pen pals
Thank you to our luncheon sponsors!
Many schools get additional support through the partnerships such as tutors, mentors, and extracurricular activities for students. Students also get the chance to meet adult mentors in the community and learn about career choices. Likewise, many employees enjoy the opportunity to do something positive for the community and to be given time by their employer to do so. Businesses also benefit from the positive image of giving back to the Billings community.
How do I start a partnership at my school or business?
To learn more about starting a partnership at your school or business, please contact Krista Hertz, at (406) 2454133 or by email at hertzk@ billingsschools.org
Partnerships in action
CTA Architects Engineers and Newman Elementary See how Billings Businesses are making a difference in Billings Public Schools! By Shannon Peterson, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C CTA’s partnership with Newman Elementary began over 21 years ago when a CTA team member stopped by Newman to ask what they needed help with. What began as a request for volunteers to read with students has continued and our partnership has grown and evolved each year. While Santa and the Elves visiting Newman is one of the annual highlights, our weekly volunteers are the heart of our partnership. For 21 years, volunteers have been going to Newman Elementary each week to read with students. Several years ago this evolved to volunteers also helping weekly with the ALEKS math enrichment program. This year we added STEM, where volunteers work on a STEM activity with a small group of students each week. While a visit and gift from Santa bring smiles to many faces, the weekly volunteers get to know their students and provide them encouragement throughout the year. Our partnership with Newman is truly grassroots and has become a part of our office culture. One of CTA’s longest standing values is doing business by the Golden Rule, which drives us to also be involved and give back to our community not only financially, but with our time. While our monetary donations can make a difference, the value of our partnership comes in the team members that we have visiting the school each week, getting to know individual students, and helping them succeed. It is amazing to think of how many students we have positively impacted in our 21 years at Newman Elementary!
Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools The Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools believes that ALL students in Billings Public Schools deserve a rigorous, wellrounded education to prepare them for successful careers. To that end, the Education Foundation has worked diligently since 1988 to enhance the educational opportunities available to students in the district. The mission of the Education Foundation is to promote excellence in education by providing opportunities and resources to Billings public school students. The Foundation works in cooperation with the public school system, but operates indepen-
dently. Through endowments, scholarships, grants, and specific projects, the Foundation provides opportunities and resources for students and educators in Billings Public Schools to promote excellence in education. Major activities include: Classroom Grants, Partners in Education, Reading Rocks, Saturday Live, Special Projects, and scholarships for students and teachers. To support and learn more about the Education Foundation, visit our website at www.efbps.org.
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Partnerships in action
Riverstone Health/Eastern Montana Area Health Education Center and Orchard Elementary
By Jeremy Carlson – Orchard Elementary Principal For the last three years as administrator at Orchard Elementary, RiverStone Health/Eastern Montana Area Health Education Center has been a key partner for our school. As a TraumaInformed School, we have been extremely blessed to use their resources and expertise. Our school-based clinic provides medical, dental, and behavioralhealth services for our students and families. The goal to reach the whole-child is really going in the right direction with their help and support. At times in education, it is easy to feel like you are on an island. This definitely isn’t the case thanks to RiverStone Health. When we have questions about building resiliency in kids with trauma, we can access Wendy McAndrews of RiverStone Health or Dr. Eric Arzubi
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of Billings Clinic. Our staff, students and families have benefited tremendously because of their training and partnership. Big doors open on small hinges. RiverStone Health also does many things behind the scenes to help our school be a great place for kids. They provide financial support through gracious monetary donations. Individuals within RiverStone Health provide backpacks, clothing, and school sup-
April 2018 | SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018
plies for students in need. Their team also does healthy habits education for our students where they learn about healthy food, dental care, and lifestyle habits through our lunch and learn programs. By being invested in our school in so many ways, our students, staff, and community see them as part of our school culture. If RiverStone Health ever wanted a mascot, it would be
a Husky since that is what our community sees them as. They truly are part of our Husky family. As the principal, I don’t know what our school would do without the gracious assistance from RiverStone Health. Monetary donations are fantastic, and they help provide additional opportunities for our students. But more importantly, it is about relationships. On a daily basis, our students are seeing positive adult
role models that care about them, know them by name, and know their story. One of our key aims as a school staff is to “Hunt for Hearts.” Our goal is to have every kid in our school have someone that they can make a personal connection with and they can run to for anything. I am confident that RiverStone Health has hunted for our kids’ hearts and have made an impact that will last a lifetime.
Partnerships in action
Career Day for middle school students “Career Day” isn’t just for high school students. Counselors at Riverside and Will James Middle School have discovered that they are equally important for middle school students. Exposing kids of all ages to the world of work can broaden their perspectives and spur them to more interesting and productive educational and career pathways. These counselors put on impressive programs introducing students in 6th through 8th grade to important life skills and a variety of professions and occupations at their respective Career Days this school year. Most middle school students don’t have a concrete idea of what they want to do when they ‘grow up’, but they have lots of ideas of what they like and don’t like. Middle School Career Day is the perfect time for kids to explore potential career paths, as they are open to new ideas and have huge optimism about their future. A Career Day expands their horizons of what is out there and helps students map out a pathway to career options by exposing them to a variety of professions and encourag-
ing them to keep their eyes open to possibilities. Finding speakers who are able to participate can be a challenge. Fortunately, over 45 community members from a wide section of the workplace volunteered to speak at the events. Their expertise ranged from attorneys, small business owners, architects and master plumbers, to occupational therapists, physicians, law en-
forcement officers, and electricians. This wide variety of speakers helps give students a glimpse of their possibilities. “Often students don’t get an opportunity to sit down and talk to people in careers they are interested in. This provides them with the opportunity to ask questions firsthand,” shared Will James counselor Nichole Hamnes. At Riverside, Career Day end-
ed with a school wide assembly where motivational speaker and cancer survivor, Russ Cherry, shared many lessons from his life experiences and encouraged students to pursue their dreams, seize the opportunities they are given, and find perspective on the challenges they face. The students walked away with new insight sharing, “He really inspired me to do what I’m best at and to
be strong.” Nichole Hamnes, Will James counselor, sums up the value of the day, “Career Day impacts the students by exposing them to careers that they may not be aware are out there. It provides them with the knowledge of what is required, it matches their personality and interests, and gets them thinking about their futures now and more!”
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Partnerships in action
Career and Technical Education Partnership In the spring of 2017, Billings Public Schools, BillingsWorks, and other business partners formed a unique partnership to improve Career and Technical Education (CTE) in our schools and community. This partnership provided leadership and funding to hire a director of career and technical education. This person is the conduit between schools and industry. Our CTE leadership team knows by meeting the current needs and anticipation of future demands in the economy, we will have students graduating career- and college-ready to fill job needs in the Billings’ community. “Workforce development has to be a collaborative effort and the CTE Partnership is working to operate as such. The concept of this group is for our local industry partners to inform and support the implementation of relevant curricula, so students are not only getting exposed to a multitude of career choices but are gaining the 21st Century workforce skills that will set them up for success,” shared
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Karen Baumgart, Director of BillingsWorks. Today’s CTE programs incorporate rigorous academic and technical standards, as well as critical workplace skills such as problem solving, communication, and teamwork. “We recognize how critical it is to develop interest in healthcare careers at an early age to meet community healthcare needs and the mission of our organization.” BJ Gilmore, BSN, MSM, NEA-BC – Chief Nursing Officer/VP Patient Care Services, St. Vincent Healthcare. Thank you to our CTE partners and leaders: 360 Office, Advanced Care Hospital of Montana, Avitus Group, Big Sky Economic Development, BillingsWorks Workforce Council, Billings Clinic, Brown’s Auto Service, Inc., Cellular Plus, Clocktower Inn, Denny Menholt Motors, EBMS, Education Foundation for BPS, ExxonMobil, First Interstate Bank, Langlas & Associates, Northern Hotel, St. John’s Lutheran Ministries, Saint Vincent Healthcare, and Stockman Bank.
April 2018 | SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018
Other partnerships Snapshots of other partnerships A & E Architects provides volunteer support at Beartooth Elementary to assist with annual school fundraisers and events.
Big Sky Elementary. In addition, EBMS provided device storage units for every classroom in the school.
Altana Federal Credit Union employees participated in the implementation of House Teams at Boulder Elementary. They donated at big screen television for daily announcements and keep track of the House Team points.
ExxonMobil employees worked as mentors and advisors to students in the Beartooth Elementary Lego Robotics Club on a weekly basis last fall, volunteered at Science Night at Bitterroot Elementary, and mentored girls at Ben Steele Middle School in preparation for the Girls In Science Extravaganza at Montana State University Billings.
Big Sky EMS supports the EMT program at the Career Center through donations and discounts for their fall conference registration for all students. They also donate time, equipment, and expertise to the national registry testing of students. Billings Clinic hosts 5th graders at McKinley for “Career Day” at Billings Clinic. Students are given hands on, active instruction on future career pathways in healthcare. Billings Clinic Human Resources department also provided job interview skill training through mock interviews with the students. City of Billings Fire Department hosts Career Center EMT students each spring for their 10 required observation hours as part of their EMT training. EBMS employees volunteer at the Fall Meet and Greet and the spring carnival at
Famous Dave’s partners with Beartooth Elementary to provide the Famous Kids lunch each month. This lunch celebration recognizes student’s efforts towards improving behavioral skills as well as academic success. First Interstate Bank- Central Avenue branch employees assist with the after-school STEM club at Washington Elementary. They’re also assisting with the initiation of a new Student Leadership Program for 4th and 5th grade students. First Interstate Bank – Shiloh branch employees volunteer every week in the 2nd and 3rd grade classrooms assisting with reading and math activities. They ensure that the school carnival is a success by volunteering their time and energy for the evening festivities.
First Interstate Bank Downtown employee volunteers served teachers breakfast on Teacher Appreciation Day and root beer floats to students on Field Day. In addition, they volunteer on a weekly basis in classrooms. Kampgrounds of America supports Ponderosa Elementary every fall by hosting the school’s booth at Saturday Live. In addition, KOA provides classroom supplies and volunteers for school events throughout the year. Mission Ridge assists Arrowhead Elementary kindergarten students with letter recognition and beginning reading skills each week. Several volunteers assist the teachers in the work room, preparing classroom materials. The students in turn share valentines, holiday crafts, and games with the residents throughout the school year. Montana State University Billings Baseball Program provided 88 hours of tutoring/mentoring to students at Beartooth Elementary. Riverstone and Area Health Education Center (AHEC) supports workforce development projects at the Career Center through guest lectures, interactions with medical students, and career coaching. In addition, they provided students with Youth Mental Health First Aid training and
certification. Rocky Mountain College partnered with Rose Park Elementary to support Literacy University at the school. Rocky students put on a school wide assembly, read in classrooms, and hosted 3rd, 4th and 5th grade students on campus for tours. The goal of Literacy University is to expose students to higher education and encourage them to set goals. In addition, Rocky Mountain College volunteers are assisting all students in creating collaborative art projects for the Art Crawl, a special program to raise money for an inclusive playground. St. Vincent Healthcare provides extra-curricular physical activity before school for the 3rd – 5th graders at Broadwater Elementary along with academic assistance for students. In addition, they provide clothing, food, and school supplies to students in need. Valley Federal Credit Union employees provide reading support to Miles Avenue Elementary students on a weekly basis. In addition, 15 employees volunteer to work the games at the annual school carnival and judge the Spelling Bee. Wells Fargo provided tablets to support Career & Technical Education at Senior High and the Billings Career Center.
Saluting healthy futures With congratulations for the 2017 Valedictorians, we recognize the academic achievement of all graduating students and salute those pursuing a future in medical careers.
billingsclinic.com/careers
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List of partners Partners in Education: 360 Office Supplies and Newman Elementary
Hanser’s Automotive and Wrecker
Elementary
Elementary First Interstate Bank West and Meadowlark & Washington Elementary
St. Vincent Healthcare Foster Grandparent Program and Billings Public Schools
HDR and Central Heights Elementary
United Way and Billings Public Schools
A & E Architects and Beartooth Elementary
Holland & Hart and Broadwater Elementary
Valley Federal Credit Union and Miles Avenue Elementary
Mark Rite Lines
Anvil Corporation and Washington Elementary
Kampgrounds of America and Ponderosa Elementary
Wells Fargo Bank and Billings Senior High
Metric Wrench Montana Bioscience Alliance
Billings Clinic and McKinley Elementary
Altana Federal Credit Union and Boulder Elementary
Home Builder’s Association of Billings Lithia Toyota Local 732 Iron Workers Union
KLJ and Big Sky Elementary
Wendy’s of Montana and Washington Elementary
CenturyLink and Washington Elementary
KTVQ-2 and Billings Public Schools
Wyndstone and Eagle Cliffs Elementary
Montana State University Billings
ConocoPhillips and Washington Elementary
Lithia Toyota and Billings Public Schools
Thank you to Career Center Program Advisory Board Members
NASA HUNCH
CTA Architects and Engineers and Newman Montana State University Billings and Poly Elementary Drive Elementary Denny Menholt & Billings Public Schools Montana State University Billings Baseball EBMS and Big Sky Elementary
and McKinley and Beartooth Elementary
ExxonMobil and Bench Elementary and Billings Public Schools
Phillips 66 and Orchard Elementary and South Side Neighborhood Schools
Famous Dave’s and Beartooth Elementary
RiverStone Health and Orchard Elementary and Riverside Middle School
Farmers Insurance Agents and Sandstone Elementary
Alternative Energy Billings Clinic Billings Fire Department Billings Gazette Carpet One
Montana Department of Labor
Northern Hotel Paint Center Pierce Flooring RiverStone Health/AHEC River Ridge Landscape
City College
Rocky Mountain College
Rocky Mountain College and Rose Park Elementary
CTA Architects Engineers
Sanderson Stewart
Denny Menholt Chevrolet
St. John’s Lutheran Ministries
Sanderson Stewart and Meadowlark
Eggart Engineering/Construction
St. Vincent’s Healthcare
First Interstate Bank Heights and Bitterroot Elementary
St. John’s Lutheran Ministries/Mission Ridge and Arrowhead Elementary
Epic Software
Staley Automotive
ExxonMobil
Studer Construction
First Interstate Bank Shiloh and Big Sky
St. Vincent Healthcare and Broadwater
Good Shepherd Preschool
WindDancer Photography
First Interstate Bank Downtown and Highland Elementary
! s n o i t a l u t a r g n o c — s r u o y o Congratulations, From our best t valedictorians and Alisha Elizabeth Breen
Choteau, MT Health and Human Performance, Human Performance Option Cum Laude Golden Merit Award
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April 2018 | SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018
Sarah E. Radovich
Billings, MT Mathematics Teaching Option Magna Cum Laude
Wyatt I. Witty
Buffalo, WY Health and Human Performance, Human Performance Option Cum Laude
all graduates of the class of 2018. Montana State University Billings is proud of your accomplishments and stands ready to help you take the next step in your academic life.
Experience the MSUB Advantage today!
msubillings.edu
BNSF Excellence in Education Award BNSF Railway Excellence in Education Award The Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools, in partnership with BNSF Railway, is proud to announce the winners of the BNSF Railway Excellence in Education Award for 2018. The Excellence in Education program seeks to recognize teachers who are making a difference in the education of Billings Public Schools students. Middle and high school students across the district nominated 169 teachers as Distinguished Educators. All of these educators were invited to apply for the Excellence in Education Award from which 53 teachers completed the application. Two teachers were selected by a panel of local business and education leaders. As Excellence in Education Award winners, these two teachers will each receive a $2,500 award to use toward continuing education or classroom projects. This is the first year BNSF Railway has recognized teachers in Billings Public Schools with this award. Patrick Kenney Ben Steele Middle School Mr. Patrick Kenney has been teaching in Billings Public Schools for 24 years. He began to share his love of science in the classroom as a 6th grade teacher at Ponderosa Elementary in 1997. While at Ponderosa Elementary, Mr. Kenney led students through building projects, like the current Northrop Glider project. In 2008, Mr. Kenney moved to Will James Middle School and spent the
last several years teaching 8th grade science, before transferring to Ben Steele Middle School for the 2017-2018 school year. Mr. Kenney’s teaching philosophy is based on holistic, authentic, and cross-curricular instruction. This approach allows him to integrate math and history into his science curriculum to make learning more relevant and meaningful to his students. Mr. Kenney will use his award to build a wind tunnel. The wind tunnel will be an exact replica of the Wright Brothers 1900 wind tunnel along
with two instruments they used, the lift and drag balance scales. The internal lift/ drag balances will introduce trigonometric functions of sine, cosine, and tangent. The wind tunnel will be on wheels so that it can be used by high school science fair students, SD2 STEM program, the flight program at Ben Steele MS, and in his science classroom. Randy Chase Castle Rock Middle School Mr. Randy Chase began his teaching ca-
reer in Billings Public Schools in 1994. After five years of teaching at Beartooth Elementary, he transferred to Castle Rock Middle School where he has continued to share his passion for science with his students. At the heart of Mr. Chase’s teaching philosophy is getting students out of the classroom and into the field for Place Based Education. As a science teacher, experiential learning outside of the four walls of the classroom and in an outdoor setting is critical. Mr. Chase will use his award to augment his students’ learning by purchasing guide books, sweep nets, field microscopes, quality binoculars, spotting scopes and capture chambers for use in the field. These tools will enhance the students’ outdoor learning experience and enable them to see up close the behaviors and interactions of animals, as well as assist with identification, understanding and tracking of the flora and fauna in the outdoor environment.
2018
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Distinguished Educators 2018 BNSF Distinguished Educators 2018
Fred Michels
The following educators were nominated Greg Wiens by Billings Public Schools middle and high Hannah Monson school students for the outstanding impact Harmony Hoover they have made on their education: Aaron Roberts Alice Nation Alina Chirrick Amy Pfeifle Angel Zickefoose Angela Schanz-Roe Angela Shull Annette Julian April Stetler Ashley Olson Austrin Johnson Barbara Stevenson Becki Risser Beth Bakken Brandon Anton Brenda Fowler Brianna Gleason Bridgett Paddock Brooke Taylor
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Kelly Latham
Renee Maynard
Kerra Olson
Rhonda King
Kevin Cicero
Richele Sitton
Kim Harrington
Richelle Selleck
Heide Mankin
Kim Potter
Robert Barthule
Hunter Jones
Kimberly Johnson
Robert Besel
Jamie Jarvis
Kimberly Komar
Robert Stanton
Janelle Wilson
Kimberly Webber
Ross Marquis
Janna Lind
Kirk Woosley
Roxie Cobb
Jeff Bottrell
Kourtney Carter
Russell White
Jenna Allie
Krista Blomquist
Ryan Truscott
Kristen Berge
Sara Lord
Jennifer Hull Jennifer Huppert Jeremy Hernandez Jerry Jette Jerry Weik Jessica Sery Jill McKnight Jill Sanders Joan Sleeth Jodee Patrick Joel Reitz Jonathan Bushey
Kristin Burckley Kristopher Cummings Lane Duray Lanita Barnhart Lauren Cardneaux Lawrence McMullen Leah Samuelson Linda Kimmet Lisa Harrell Lisa Hatlestad Lisa Saur Lisa Scott
Sara Ness Shannon Moore Shannon Newell Shannon Wippert Shawn Bowman Shea Mangold Shena Wald Shirley Greene Stacey Barbeu Stephanie Wagner Stephen Paterson
Bryan Grummett
Judy Barnes
Caitlin Haaland
Juli McNeil
Casey Visser
Julie Dannenberg
Christina Schulze
Julie Dawkins
Clint Mainwaring
Julie Tallman
Colter Pierce
Julie Wilson
Cortney Falcon
Kaely Helmbrecht
Craig Allred
Kaliope Miller
Myra Nurre
Tanya Watt
Craig Beals
Kami Bodine
Nancy Warren
Tawna Robinson
Dan Bartsch
Karen Fox
Natasha Norby
Teagan Leffler
Darla Williams
Karen Marcotte
Nels Jensen
Tera Cunningham
Darleen Jahn
Kari Field
Nicole Delcamp
Teri Schulze
Darren Murdoch
Karson Kidgell
Patricia Pinter
Thomas Burke
David Carlson
Kate Cordes
Patrick Kenney
Tiffany Binford
David Green
Kate McPherson
Patti Eubank
Tiffany Frenk
Deanne Gemmill
Kathy Lawrence
Paula Simcox
Timothy Ottman
Debbie Whitney
Katie Wilcox
Rachel Shaw
Tracey Tounsley
DeeAnn Egeland
Kayla Bettise
Rafael Zepeda
VaLorie Mathison
Edward Nieto
Kayla Sanchez
Randy Chase
Whitney Urbaniak
Elizabeth Johnson
Kelly Duneman
Rebecca Egan
Zach Robbins
April 2018 | SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018
Lori Grimstad Lynda Chase Madame Schlaht Mary Moses Michael Thomas Milisa Mossett Molly Barta
Steve Green Steven Patton Steven Wieder Sue Nord Tammie Grewell Tammy Grimm Tamra Kenny
Senior High School Valedictorian & Platinum Students Madison Duneman PARENTS: Connie and Kelly Duneman MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lewis and Clark Middle
School
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Big Sky Elementary FUTURE PLANS: After high school. I plan to attend college. I will be majoring in Global Studies and Spanish.
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
My most rewarding high school class has been four years of Spanish. These classes have allowed me to engage in our global community while learning a second language. I have also had the opportunity to travel to both Spain and Costa Rica through this class. Because of the great Spanish department at Senior High, I found my future
career path.
high school, I wanted to push myself to be challenged everyday. The Platinum Program allowed me to do this. The challenging classes and demanding work load have taught me how to manage my time and prioritize what is important to me. Furthermore, my high school education has had so much meaning and depth because of this challenging program. MAGNUM OPUS: For my Magnum Opus project, I created a kids camp based on the historical American Girl Dolls. I developed the curriculum and taught the camp the summer of 2017 at the Moss Mansion. The
intention of the camp was to empower the next generation of young women. My Platinum Project allowed me to build real-life skills applicable to my future. TEACHER: The teacher who has had the greatest impact on my education was my first and third grade teacher, Mrs. Preble. I not only got the chance to enjoy her one year but two, and she helped me become the intelligent, confident young woman I am today. Going into her classroom was exciting and joyful, and we learned something new everyday. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Student Council, Spanish Club, STEM Society, BSH Orchestra, CDS Dance, Track and Field
teachers at Senior that have made even the most difficult concepts easy to comprehend! MOTIVATION FOR PLATINUM PROGRAM: I was planning on taking all the honors/AP classes available because I try to challenge myself academically. The platinum program was a way to push myself even further by doing a research paper and magnum opus project. I am so glad that I decided to do the platinum program because I would have never done my project without the extra motivation. MAGNUM OPUS: My project was about the benefits of learning languages in elementary school. I taught Spanish to a fifth grade class at Highland Elementary three days a week. We sang songs, played games, and had lots of fun! After teaching for twelve weeks, I presented my findings to the School
Board. An article about my project was published in the Gazette. TEACHER: My 5th and 6th grade teacher, Mrs. Porisch, was the first person who showed me that learning can be fun and doesn’t have to stop when you leave the classroom. I also aspire to be like Mrs. Nord, my AP World History teacher and Model UN adviser. She is intelligent, kind and understanding to every student, and makes me want to be a better person. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Cross country, Teen Council, Billings Youth Orchestra, Billings Symphony Orchestra, Magic City Strings, Art’s Without Boundaries, Senior High Quartet, Model United Nations, National Honor Society, Senior Advocates, Interlochen Arts Camp, Marrowstone Music Festival.
classes.
Bertleson made the greatest impact on my education because she taught me how to get out of my comfort zone and try new things. It is true enough to say that without her, I would not be the person I am today. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Billings Senior High Key Club, Spanish Club, STEM Club, Tennis, Senior Advocates, National Honors Society, Billings Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership
MOTIVATION FOR PLATINUM PROGRAM: In
Michele Feeley
Ana Strong Garcia PARENTS: Amaya Garcia and David Strong MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lewis and Clark Middle
School
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Easterly Parkway, McKinley and Poly Drive Elementary FUTURE PLANS: I am excited to continue my education next year either at Columbia University or Williams College, where I will study political science and music. After college I want to attend law school and work in government. MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
Yardley Diagneau
My most challenging and rewarding classes in high school have been the STEM classes that I have taken. Math and science are not my best subjects and I have had to work hard to succeed in those classes. It doesn’t hurt that I have had some awesome math
MaKenzy Gilsdorf PARENTS: Julie and Wade Gilsdorf MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lewis and Clark Middle
MOTIVATION FOR PLATINUM PROGRAM: I
School
believe I was motivated to participate in the
and furthering my education.
advocate on of partaking in the program. MAGNUM OPUS: The topic of my Magnum Opus is organized youth sport and the benefits it has on children. I also focused on how the benefits affected children living with financial hardships. I conducted and ran a free tennis camp for kids at the North Park Center. I got to see the firsthand effects of tennis on the children. TEACHER: My third grade teacher Mrs.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Broadwater Elementary Platinum Project because I wanted to chalFUTURE PLANS: I plan on attending college lenge myself. Also, my mom was a pretty big MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
My most challenging class was Honors Earth Science my freshman year. It was a difficult class because the work load and course expectation was different from the less challenging classes of eighth grade. I was not ready for the transition, so the class challenged me. However, it did prepare me for the next three years of Honors and AP
Clark Marten Photography
SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018 | April 2018
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Senior High School Valedictorian & Platinum Students Benjamin LaBeau PARENTS: Darcy and Ben LaBeau MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lewis and Clark Middle
School
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Highland Elementary FUTURE PLANS: I plan to go to Montana
State University and studying pre-med. I would like to go on to medical school after that and hopefully start a career as an orthopedic surgeon.
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
My most challenging high school class was definitely AP US History taught by Mr. Murray. Having a test every week it made me consistently have homework almost everyday and taught me studying habits that have helped me throughout high school.
Though it was tough, it was very rewarding to finish the class! MOTIVATION FOR PLATINUM PROGRAM: I have always enjoyed challenging myself, and there is no greater challenge than the Platinum Program at Senior High. Being a natural competitor I knew I had to try and conquer it! Through motivation from my parents, especially my mom, I was convinced that I could do it! MAGNUM OPUS: My Magnum Opus project revolved around restoring an old fishing boat that was in need of repair. Working with my grandpa, Rob Stephens, I was able to increase my learning curve by interacting with local businesses to find parts, learning
about the mechanics of a boat, and learning about hands on repairs that will be helpful in the future! TEACHER: The teacher that has made the greatest positive impact on me was Mr. Umemoto. Through the challenging AP Physics course he has been an amazing teacher, dissecting complex concepts into terms that we can all understand. He goes out of his way to help each individual student and has made me genuinely interested in learning about science. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Football, Basketball, Bronc Buddies, Senior Advocates, National Honor Society
was opened up to the incredible cultures all over the world. This class was invaluable in preparing me for the AP classes I took my junior and senior year. MOTIVATION FOR PLATINUM PROGRAM: The Platinum Program provided such a unique opportunity to explore a subject I was interested in, but did not have an inherent class application. With the challenging classes and the Magnum Opus, this program has fostered a more well-rounded education for me. MAGNUM OPUS: I piloted a composting program in the culinary classrooms of Senior and compiled my data into a feasibility study,
analyzing how composting could be applied at Senior High to dispose of cafeteria waste. TEACHER: Ms. Sarah Lord and Mrs. Kate McPherson were my cross country coaches and have been such amazing role models for me. Their kindness and enthusiasm for life is contagious and their support and advice immeasurable. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Cross Country, STEM Society, Student Council, orchestra, piano, viola, Moss Mansion volunteer, Senior Advocates, Interact Club, Key Club, National Honor Society, Senior High Quartet
Daniel Sullivan
Paloma Whitworth PARENTS: Julie and Bruce Whitworth MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lewis and Clark Middle
School
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Poly Drive Elementary FUTURE PLANS: I plan to major in Biochemistry and minor in Spanish or Environmental Science in the Honors Program at Gonzaga University. In the future, I hope to attend medical school and study to become a pediatrician.
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
AP World History taught by Mrs. Sue Nord was my first and favorite AP class. Panning over the world in such a short time, my mind
Theodore Hampton
Sophia Whitworth PARENTS: Julie and Bruce Whitworth MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lewis and Clark Middle
and note taking habits to the skills I learned in this class from Mrs. Sue Nord. MOTIVATION FOR PLATINUM PROGRAM: I School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Poly Drive Elementary chose to participate in the Platinum Program FUTURE PLANS: This fall I will be continubecause I wanted to challenge myself acaing my education in the Honors Program at demically throughout high school and preGonzaga University. I plan to pursue a major pare myself for college. I have always loved learning, and to me the Platinum Program in Biochemistry and minor in Spanish. After was a continuation of this passion. this, I hope to be accepted into medical school and to eventually become a physician. MAGNUM OPUS: For my Magnum Opus projMOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS: ect, I created a STEM program comprised of AP World History was the most rewarding activities to engage kids in summer learning. class in high school. I love this class because Under the guidance of Mrs. Ginny Mermel, I it challenged me to learn a wide range of was able to collaborate with the staff at the material and to look at the world from differ- Billings Public Library to make these activient perspectives. I credit my current study ties free and accessible to all children in the Theodore Hampton
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April 2018 | SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018
community.
TEACHER: My middle school Life Science
teacher, Mrs. Shirley Greene, had a positive impact on my education. Mrs. Greene’s creative and innovative teaching style inspired my fascination of science. I always looked forward to her class, and her positive energy and excitement made science my favorite subject. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Cross Country, Student Council, STEM Society, Band, Orchestra, piano, National Honor Society, Spanish Club, Senior Advocates, Moss Mansion volunteer
Senior High School Valedictorians Tyler Frieders PARENTS: Liane and Tom Frieders MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lewis and Clark Middle
School
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Boulder Elementary FUTURE PLANS: Play baseball at Yakima Valley Community College
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
career and was always someone I was able to go and talk to. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: American Legion Baseball, Student Council, Senior Advocates
need or want.
TEACHER: Katie Meier has made the greatest
Honors Pre-Calculus because our teacher Mrs. Pfeifle was a very good instructor while making it challenging. TEACHER: Mrs. Allison Kipp because she has helped guide me throughout my High School
Zimmerman Portrait Designs
Caleb Johnson PARENTS: Elizabeth and Donald Johnson MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lockwood Middle School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Lockwood Elementary FUTURE PLANS: Attend MSUB to take my
undergraduate classes that are required for a career that I want in the medical field. When I decide what career, I will transfer to another school so that I can get the degree I
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
The most challenging yet rewarding class I have taken in high school is AP Calc. In the first semester, I was struggling, and had a low B in the class. However, I did not let that get to me, as I endured and ended up receiving the A I wanted.
positive impact on my education because she has helped me gain valuable skills I will need in the medical field. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Wrestling
eMarie Photography
Madelyn King PARENTS: Rhonda and Bret King MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lewis and Clark Middle School
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Miles Avenue Elementary
FUTURE PLANS: I am undecided on what
University I will be attending, but I will be pursuing my degree in Nursing.
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
For me, Honors Pre-Calculus was the most
challenging and also the most rewarding. This class was full of new and difficult concepts to grasp, so successfully completing a problem was an amazing feeling. Mrs. Pfeifle was full of encouragement and help whenever it was needed throughout the year. TEACHER: It is too hard to pick out just one individual. I have had amazing teachers from Kindergarten up. I give credit to each and every one of them for pushing me to be my
best no matter what. I would not be where I am without each one of them contributing in their own way. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: volleyball, orchestra, Senior Advocates, National Honors Society, Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Program, Special Olympics volunteer
Michele Feeley Photography
SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018 | April 2018
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Senior High School Valedictorians Madison Randak PARENTS: Angela and Andrew Randak MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lewis and Clark Middle
School
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Poly Drive Elementary FUTURE PLANS: I will be attending the Honors College at Montana State University and pursuing pre-med.
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
A.P. U.S. History was both my most challenging and rewarding class. It enabled me to pass the A.P. exam and earn college credit. I also learned how to persevere through a tough class. TEACHER: I have been very fortunate to have many influential teachers during my K-12 education. I cannot name just one specific
teacher, so here are a few of my favorites: Mr. Beals, Frau Schell, Ms. Wardrip, Mrs. Petersen EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Cross Country, Key Club, Senior Advocates, National Honors Society, STEM Society
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
TEACHER: I have had too many great teach-
I have been able to take at Senior and at the Career Center. They have not only prepared me well for my future career and college experience, but they have allowed me to be creative and explore different areas of photography. TEACHER: My AP World History teacher, Mrs. Nord, has had a great impact on my years in school. From her class, I learned how to
study and learn material independently. I also learned that positive teacher/student relationships are always respectful, considerate, and kind from Mrs. Nord’s example. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Piano teacher, Orchestra teacher, National Honors Society, Choir Ensemble, Sunday School teacher
Rhea Wolpoe
Sophia Randak PARENTS: Angela and Andrew Randak MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lewis and Clark Middle
A.P. U.S. History was definitely my most School challenging and rewarding class. This class ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Poly Drive Elementary pushed me to my limits and forced me work FUTURE PLANS: I will be attending the harder than I ever had before. It was reHonors College at Montana State University warding, however, because in the end I was in the fall. There, I plan on studying Pre-Med. able to get college credit for the class, and However, I am not exactly sure what I want there is something amazing about completing a very difficult task. to do in the medical field yet.
ers, so instead of choosing one, I would like to name a few: Ms. Wardrip, Frau Schell, Mr. Beals, Mrs. Petersen EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Key Club, Cross Country, STEM Society, Senior Advocates, National Honors Society
Rhea Wolpoe
Rebecca Strobel PARENTS: Karyn and Steve Strobel MIDDLE SCHOOL: Riverside Middle School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Blue Creek Elementary FUTURE PLANS: I will attend Montana State
University in Bozeman in the fall. I will be majoring in business in the management option and minoring in photography. MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS: I have really enjoyed the photography classes
Tricia Footit
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April 2018 | SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018
Senior High School Valedictorians Bailey Volbrecht PARENTS: Danylle and Brad Volbrecht MIDDLE SCHOOL: Riverside Middle School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Blue Creek School FUTURE PLANS: I will attend Grand Canyon
University Honors College in the fall and then pursue medical school after graduation.
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
Human anatomy has been the most rewarding because it has everything to do with
my college major: biology. By having a basis in human anatomy, I have greatly helped myself be one step ahead come college. TEACHER: Alice Nation has had the greatest impact on my K-12 education because she is caring and can tell when something is off. She was always someone I could confide in, and someone I knew was always in my corner. I went through some stuff my junior and
senior years of high school and she helped me more than she can ever imagine. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Volleyball, Basketball, Track & Field, National Honors Society, Senior Advocates, Montana Math Competition, Young Life, and Orchestra
Senior High Platinum Students
Clark Marten
Ashton Albright PARENTS: Kim Gottwals and Matt Albright MIDDLE SCHOOL: Eileen Johnson Middle
my last few years of high school is Miss Meier. She has been my HOSA adviser for School the last three years and has helped me to ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Lockwood Elementary grow as a leader. Miss Meier has also been a FUTURE PLANS: I plan to attend Rocky great role model and overall a great person Mountain College under their Equine Science to talk to. She is definitely the most stand program with a focus in pre-veterinary care. out teacher I’ve had. MOTIVATION FOR PLATINUM PROGRAM: I After I plan to attend a veterinary school was motivated to participate in the Platinum and graduate as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and return to Montana to practice. Program by the challenge it promised. It TEACHER: A teacher that has made the granted me an opportunity to do things that greatest positive impact on me throughout I had always wanted to do and these things
are now activities I have grown to love.
MAGNUM OPUS: The topic of my Magnum
Opus was learning the art of archery. At first I thought it would be a fun topic and a great way to get outside and enjoy myself. It has grown into so much more, I have made new friends through meeting people at our local archery shop and gained much insight into the sport of archery.
KJ Signature Photos
Carrie Baker PARENTS: Sue and Mike Baker MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lewis and Clark Middle
School
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Poly Drive Elementary FUTURE PLANS: I am most likely attending
Gonzaga University in the fall. My major is undecided, but I am interested in a science related field. I will continue playing the clarinet as well.
TEACHER: My first grade teacher, Mrs. Olsen,
has made the greatest impact on my education. Her kindness and dedication to her job motivated me to be excited to learn from a young age. This positive attitude towards education that I picked up from her helped me succeed through my schooling. MOTIVATION FOR PLATINUM PROGRAM: I was planning on taking all honors classes
anyways, so adding a project and a paper did not seem like a stretch. MAGNUM OPUS: My Magnum Opus was revolved around my passion for music. I organized students from Senior High to play music at the Billings Symphony Tour of Homes my junior and senior year.
Jana Graham Photography
SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018 | April 2018
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Senior High School Platinum Students Connor Eaton PARENTS: Sandi and Rod Eaton MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lewis and Clark Middle
School
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Poly Drive Elementary FUTURE PLANS: I will attend University
of Utah in the fall to study Quantitative Analysis of Markets and Organizations and
MOTIVATION FOR PLATINUM PROGRAM: I was
Operational Management. TEACHER: Mrs. Amy Pfiefle had the greatest impact on me with her fair teaching style and her ability to make sure every student understands the material.
already going to do all honors in high school and a final project sounded fun. MAGNUM OPUS: I remodeled a 1930’s era house.
TEACHER: Mrs. Barnes, who taught me to
MOTIVATION FOR PLATINUM PROGRAM:
TEACHER: Michael Qualls of Lewis and Clark
MOTIVATION FOR PLATINUM PROGRAM: I
Alisha Soueidi Photography
Wade Haesemeyer PARENTS: Kim and Dan Haesemeyer MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lewis and Clark Middle
School
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: McKinley Elementary FUTURE PLANS: Going to Wabash College
love learning and how learning is better with others.
Wanted rigorous classes in preparation for college. MAGNUM OPUS: Building a cajon, a box drum
Garret Ferguson
John Holbrook PARENTS: Joan McCoy and Randy Holbrook MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lewis and Clark Middle
Middle School impacted me the most out of School any of my teachers. Not only did he get me ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Rose Park Elementary actually interested in math, the subject that FUTURE PLANS: Attend MSU and double he teaches, but he also was the first person major in Math and Film. I plan to attempt to I really talked about movies with. If I hadn’t have a career in film, and if that doesn’t work had somebody to delve into the world of film out, the math degree might become helpful. with, I wouldn’t be a filmmaker today.
Diane Morledge-Hampton
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April 2018 | SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018
figured, why not? I’m already taking all honors classes, can’t be that much more work. Couldn’t have been more wrong. MAGNUM OPUS: I made a short film called “Snowfall,” which is about a group of boys that get snowed into a house on the same night one of them decides to take his own life.
Senior High School Platinum Students Charlie Klepps PARENTS: Christine and Steve Klepps MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lewis and Clark Middle School
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Poly Drive Elementary FUTURE PLANS: Go to college and study communications and journalism. TEACHER: Jennifer Fleek Airne because she helped me become a better writer and was always super honest when grading my
papers. Plus she taught me some wrestling moves. MOTIVATION FOR PLATINUM PROGRAM: I watched other kids complete it before I got into high school and I thought it was super impressive. Also my parents and the Senior High counselors were very persuasive.
MAGNUM OPUS: It’s a program I implement-
aged me to push myself harder than I usually wanted to and showed me that hard work paid off. MOTIVATION FOR PLATINUM PROGRAM: I did not have any certain thing that motivated me to join it, it just seemed like the right thing to do.
MAGNUM OPUS: My Magnum Opus topic was the water crisis. I am putting together a fundraising diner on March 25 to raise money to build a deep earth solar powered well in Uganda.
in my clarinet playing so that I can play in a symphony. TEACHER: Bryan Grummett. He was my band teacher in middle school, and I have been taking weekly private lessons with him since 7th grade. I was also his 7th grade band assistant in 11th grade. In short, he has shown me how impactful you can be as a band teacher by impacting a person like me and changing a student’s life with the beauty and love of music.
MOTIVATION FOR PLATINUM PROGRAM: I
ed for our wrestling team that is designed to keep my teammates and I focused nutritionally and mentally in terms of our goals and our diets throughout the season. We also read a mental toughness book and Had lectures discuss the different chapters in the book periodically.
Kristin Jean
Matt Miller PARENTS: Shawnell and Derick Miller MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lockwood Middle School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Lockwood Elementary FUTURE PLANS: After high school I am attending Montana State University to study chemical engineering. TEACHER: Mrs. Gopp who always encour-
Charli White
Kathryn Pannell PARENTS: Stacie and John Pannell MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lewis and Clark Middle School
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Broadwater Elementary
FUTURE PLANS: I plan to go to the University of Montana to major in Music Education and also to focus on clarinet performance, studying with Dr. Kirkpatrick. My plan is to get my bachelor’s degree so that I can start teaching band, eventually at the high school level. I will also work very hard to advance
wanted to take all honors and AP courses anyway, and I thought that the Magnum Opus was the perfect opportunity for me to explore my passion of teaching music. MAGNUM OPUS: I went to Broadwater Elementary School two days a week after school to give a few 5th grade band students free music lessons, and watched how they progressed in their playing and came to love music. My paper was about how music education benefits other areas of a student’s life.
SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018 | April 2018
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Senior High School Platinum Students Hayden Trapp PARENTS: Cyndi and Jeff Trapp MIDDLE SCHOOL: Will James Middle School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Boulder Elementary FUTURE PLANS: MSU in Bozeman for civil or
mechanical engineering TEACHER: Mrs. Nason was my 6th grade teacher. School has always been difficult for me and she understood what I needed to make school more positive and successful for me. Because of her, I realized what I was capable of. Largely because of the positive
experience she gave me, I pursued honors classes the next year and have ever since. MOTIVATION FOR PLATINUM PROGRAM: I felt that I owed it to myself to take Honors classes over regular ones. I have cared about my education and where it will take me someday as well. Being around students who simply don’t care can really frustrate me. Participating in Honors classes puts me with peers that care and provide a much more positive and healthy environment.
MAGNUM OPUS: For my project I rebuilt the engine in my 1983 F-150. My project has extended to rebuilding my transmission and transfer case as well. The rest of my truck could use new paint and other work, but that will be something for later when I have time and mostly money. I now have a nicely running truck because of this project for college and beyond.
TEACHER: I would like Barry Murray for not
a professional career. MAGNUM OPUS: The topic of my Magnum Opus project was centered around the design of a line of pike flies. Fishing has always been my passion. Through this project, I was able to apply my studies at school to something I am passionate about.
Litton Photography
Alex Watterson PARENTS: Kim and David Watterson MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lewis and Clark Middle
only making the classroom a rigorous learning environment but also teaching me life School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Boulder Elementary lessons along the way. FUTURE PLANS: After high school, I plan to MOTIVATION FOR PLATINUM PROGRAM: I pursue an undergraduate degree in engineer- wanted to challenge myself with a rigorous ing at Montana Tech. curriculum to prepare myself for college and
Daniel Sullivan Photography
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April 2018 | SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018
Skyview High School Valedictorians Hannah Fraley PARENTS: Heidi and John Fraley MIDDLE SCHOOL: Castle Rock Middle School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Eagle Cliffs Elemen-
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
My most challenging and rewarding class was AP Statistics because it required a different way of thinking than other math classes I have taken. TEACHER: The teacher who has had the greatest positive impact on my education is
my sixth grade teacher, Mrs. Lane. She was always very patient and encouraging. She made learning fun and wanted to see her students succeed. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Violin, Students Against Destructive Decisions, Business Professionals of America
The high school class that has been most challenging for me is Honors Physics. This class curriculum is challenging, but I have learned so much. It’s a challenging but very rewarding class. TEACHER: One teacher that has made a positive impact on my education is Ms. Paddock.
She is an amazing teacher and she got to know me personally. She takes the extra time to get to know her students and makes learning fun. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Student Council, Business Professionals of America, and Sister’s Closet.
PARENTS: Nancy Larson and Wade Larson taken would have to be AP Stats. It is hard MIDDLE SCHOOL: Castle Rock Middle School because so much of the data you are looking ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Bitterroot Elementary at is hypothetical and you consider whether
taught me what it means to be confident. She is my math teacher, my peer tutoring teacher, my speech coach, and an excellent role model. She is the kind of woman I would like to be some day. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Speech and Debate, Color Guard, National Honor Society, Choir, and Falconeers.
tary
FUTURE PLANS: I will be attending Western
Washington University in Bellingham where I will be majoring in Economics.
Phat Amy Photography
Taylor Griffin PARENTS: Lauraleah and Ben Griffin MIDDLE SCHOOL: Castle Rock Middle School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Alkali Creek Elementary FUTURE PLANS: I plan to attend college at Montana State University in Bozeman to study Nursing.
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
Tracy Moore
Amanda Larson School
FUTURE PLANS: I plan to go to college in
Bozeman. I want to either counsel victims of abuse or to become a high school mathematics teacher.
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
The most challenging high school class I’ve
or not some decisions are worth making. “It is equally a math class and a science class,” as my teacher has said. TEACHER: Kerry Gruizenga. She has given me so many opportunities. From teaching math to being speech team mom. She has always been there to encourage me and she has
QuantumGrafx
SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018 | April 2018
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Skyview High School Valedictorians Rita Nedrow PARENTS: Dave and Beth Nedrow MIDDLE SCHOOL: Castle Rock Middle School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Independent Elementary FUTURE PLANS: I plan to attend Texas A&M
University in the fall to study Civil Engineering. After college I want to live somewhere that I can adopt as many dogs as I want and enjoy the great outdoors.
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
Montana history was probably my most rewarding high school course because it taught me a lot about the state I’ve lived in for 18 years. Thanks to MT history, I have more pride and knowledge about my home state to take with me when I leave. TEACHER: Although I never had Ms. Kathy Pfaffinger as a classroom teacher, I believe
she has had the greatest impact in my education. As my Key Club adviser, she has done much to help me advance my leadership skills and people skills. She has always encouraged me to work hard to achieve my goals. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Key Club, National Honor Society, horse riding and competitions.
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
TEACHER: Ms. Paddock. She was my English
in order to learn material and apply it to succeed. When I see good results and especially after finishing with an A first semester, it really showed me how much I can accomplish. TEACHER: Cathy Goodheart was my 3rd and 4th grade teacher at Sandstone Elementary. She has made the greatest positive impact on my education. She taught me to show compassion to all, to work hard for my goals, and to dream big dreams. She greatly inspired me as a young student and I carried
those lessons with me throughout high school and life. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Student Council, Business Professionals of America, Pep Band, National Honor Society, National Business Honor Society, Key Club, Student’s Against Destructive Decisions, Youth Leadership Billings, Tennis, Baseball, Basketball (YMCA), and Football.
MT Chic Photography
Justine Roe PARENTS: Robert and Sarah Roe MIDDLE SCHOOL: Castle Rock Middle School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Eagle Cliffs Elementary Future Plans: Go to Brigham Young University Provo, and then go on to Dental Hygiene school.
The most challenging class for me was Spanish. In addition to the fact that learning a new language is hard, I’m really bad at spelling and sounding out words, so it was hard for me to read the words or write the answers on written tests.
teacher my sophomore and senior year. I really enjoyed her class and I feel like I can go to her with any problems I am having. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: High School and Club Soccer, Student Council, Business Professionals of America, National Honor Society, National Business Honor Society
Joanna Moss Photography
Caden Senitte PARENTS: Nancy and Greg Senitte MIDDLE SCHOOL: Castle Rock Middle School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Sandstone Elementary FUTURE PLANS: I plan to study Computer
Science at either Montana State University, University of Montana, or Montana Tech.
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
The most challenging high school class that I have taken has been Honors Physics. As someone who is not a natural math person, I stayed driven and worked extremely hard
Heather Mosser Photography
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April 2018 | SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018
Skyview High School Valedictorians Ethan Snizek PARENTS: Brenda and Bob Snizek MIDDLE SCHOOL: Castle Rock Middle School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Eagle Cliffs, Sand-
stone, Alkali Creek FUTURE PLANS: I plan on serving a two year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints right out of high school and attending Utah State University afterwards on scholarship.
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
TEACHER: Amy Logan! I’ve taken seven se-
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
always willing to help. He gets to know his students and develops relationships. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Basketball, Business Professionals of America, Cross Country, First Presbyterian Youth Group, Key Club, National Honor Society, National Business Honor Society, Track
introduced many new concepts that I wasn’t familiar with. I feel that this class has been the most rewarding because Mr. Michels structured the course and tests to prepare us for college. TEACHER: All of my teachers have positively impacted me in some way, but one that stands out is Mrs. Julie Betts, my 3rd grade teacher. Mrs. Betts was always happy and made learning fun. She made each student feel important and celebrated our accom-
plishments with us. She is a good role model for her students. I hope to possess these qualities as a teacher. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Sisters’ Closet, National Honor Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Falconeers, National Business Honor Society, S.A.D.D., Cross Country, Key Club, Band
Honors English 3 my junior year was both the most rewarding and challenging. It stretched me and was the first english class that I felt like I was making measurable improvements in. All thanks to Mr. Mackenzie of course! He was an absolutely phenomenal educator! I could always expect a great sense of humor and a sincere desire to teach in his class.
mesters of her classes! It is evident, because of the passion and fervency that she teaches with that she is dedicated to her profession. She gave me so many opportunities to do things that I never felt adequate to participate in, but eventually excelled in. Now music will be a part of my life I will always cherish. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Debate and Choir
Richard Harrison Photography
John Thompson PARENTS: Dave and Vicki Thompson MIDDLE SCHOOL: Castle Rock Middle School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Sandstone Elementary
FUTURE PLANS: I plan to attend Montana State University in Bozeman and study Business and Finance.
AP Calculus has been both challenging and rewarding. It has brought out the best in me because I have had to work hard. It has helped me reach for my full potential. TEACHER: Tom Klunder is the teacher who has had the greatest positive impact on my education. He is a great teacher who is
Clark Marten Photography
Whitney Wichman PARENTS: Lynette and Dan Wichman MIDDLE SCHOOL: Castle Rock Middle School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Bitterroot FUTURE PLANS: I plan to attend MSU
Bozeman and get a degree in Elementary Education.
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS: Honor’s Chemistry with Mr. Fred Michels has been the most challenging and most rewarding class during high school. It was challenging for me because Mr. Michels
Mary Strauss
SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018 | April 2018
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West High School Valedictorians Catherine Follett PARENTS: Mike and Jill Follett MIDDLE SCHOOL: Will James Middle School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Boulder and Arrow-
head Elementary FUTURE PLANS: I will be attending Gonzaga University in the fall. I will most likely study business and entrepreneurship, but I am still uncertain. I look forward to being involved on campus and attending all the basketball games.
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
TEACHER: I have been fortunate to have
Honor English classes because of the literature we have read. Although I already enjoy reading, these classes have taught me about other cultures and different trains of thought as well as made me better understand the society I live in. TEACHER: I have had Mrs. Bogunvich for a few classes in high school and it is because of her business classes that I am encouraged
to pursue a degree in economics. She has also been a great chapter leader for our high school Business Professionals of America club. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: West High Soccer, Travel Soccer, Business Professionals of America, Amnesty International Club
as my most beneficial high school class. Everyday, I learned to see multiple perspectives on the issues and events we discussed, which is crucial to being a critical thinker and understanding person. I also learned how to analyze and synthesize information effectively, useful skills in every context. TEACHER: Mr. Ryan Nafts, my 5th and 6th grade teacher, believed in me before I really believed in myself, and he was the first to encourage me to work toward being valedictorian. Through tough times, he was there
for me, which I won’t forget. He approached teaching in a way that made me love learning and created a dynamic classroom environment. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: ByGraceWeGo Youth Liaison, Hope Church Youth Group, Singing on Worship Team, Speech and Debate, Cross Country, Philharmonic Orchestra, Model United Nations, National Honor Society, Softball
My most challenging and rewarding class during high school would be Honors Chemistry with Mrs. Field. It required countless hours of studying, but all the hard work paid off with successful test and quizzes. I looked forward to Honors Chemistry every day because of the challenge and fun classroom environment.
amazing teachers growing up, and I would like to thank them all. A special thank you to Mrs. Field who is a phenomenal educator who inspired me every day to work hard. Mrs. Field is kind and take the time to get to know all of her students, and I could not be more grateful. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Volleyball, Tennis, National Honors Society, Yearbook, Key Club, West High Mentors
Tracy Moore Photography
Madison Gosch PARENTS: Adrian and Gillian Gosch MIDDLE SCHOOL: Immanuel Lutheran ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Immanuel Lutheran FUTURE PLANS: I plan on attending college to
earn a degree in economics and psychology with an overall goal of getting a job where I can help others.
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS: My most rewarding classes have been my
Leslie Hein
Keegan Lundman PARENTS: Erryn Lee and Deke Lundman MIDDLE SCHOOL: Will James Middle School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Meadowlark Elementary
FUTURE PLANS: I hope to major in Russian
and East European Studies and minor in German Studies. I am waiting on decisions from my first choice schools, and I would like to become a missionary and academic writer in Russia after graduate school. MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS: I see AP United States history with Dr. Wendt
Erryn Lee
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April 2018 | SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018
West High School Valedictorians Zachary McGovern PARENTS: Kevin and Kelly McGovern MIDDLE SCHOOL: Will James Middle School ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Arrowhead Elementary
FUTURE PLANS: Go to Montana State University and major in chemical engineering
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
Honors Physics because it has given me a pretty good look into what engineering will be like. TEACHER: Mrs. Aukshun is my favorite teacher. She has helped me through my
schooling and was very understanding.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Football,
Student Council, National Honors Society, and Business Professionals of America
Clark Marten Photography
Brin Purdy PARENTS: Tony and Diem Purdy MIDDLE SCHOOL: Cheyenne Mountain Junior
The most rewarding class has been Genocide. I had the most amazing teacher, Mr. High Stanton, who was truly passionate about ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Cheyenne Mountain what he taught. We discussed current social Elementary School issues and why people hate and judge. This FUTURE PLANS: Although I am not comclass expanded my understanding of the pletely sure what I want to study or do as a world and people around me and gave me a career, I plan to go to Montana State Univer- chance visit Chicago to meet some amazing sity where I will explore my interests. I want Holocaust survivors. to study either pre-law or pre-medicine and would love to travel and study abroad.
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
TEACHER: The teacher that has made the
greatest impact has been my sophomore English teacher, Mr. Macartney. It was my first year at Billings West High and he welcomed me into his classroom and recommended that I join the debate team, which was the best decision I made in high school. He has supported me for the past three years in both school and debate. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Debate, HOSA, Amnesty International, Billings Clinic and St. Vincent’s volunteer
Red Willow Photography
SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018 | April 2018
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Central Catholic High Valedictorians Ana Brit Story PARENTS: Jay and Carolyn Story MIDDLE SCHOOL: St. Francis Upper ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Park City Elementary FUTURE PLANS: I plan to attend Montana
State University to study Civil Engineering Bio Resources Option.
MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
My AP Environmental Science class was one
of my most challenging classes and definitely the most rewarding class. It inspired me to become an environmental engineer. TEACHER: My AP Environmental Science teacher, Dr. Wines, has had an enormous impact on my education. She always expected the best from me and so inspired me to do my best.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Speech and
most challenging class, but definitely one of the most rewarding. The class has pushed me with the amount of knowledge I need to have and the studying that I have had to do. It has reassured me of my choice to pursue an engineering degree. TEACHER: At St. John’s, Mr. Tom Pearson was the head of the math department and my algebra teacher in 7th grade. When I moved up in math classes in 6th grade he said he would sign off, but doubted I would be able
to catch up being so far behind. In 7th grade he continued to push me, but also helped me to realize what I could accomplish. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Soccer; Speech, Drama, and Debate; National Honors Society, Kids Connecting Kids, Science Bowl, Science Olympiad, Billings Youth Leadership, Central’s Organization for Religious Endeavors.
Drama, Orchestra, Academic Team, Science Olympiad, Kids Connecting Kids, Central’s Organization for Religious Endeavors, Student Council, Excel Club, Environmental Club, National Honors Society, and Model United Nations
Erika Haight
Maia Ragar PARENTS: Todd Ragar and Alexandra McCready MIDDLE SCHOOL: St. John’s International School and St. Francis ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Poly Drive Elementary and St. Francis FUTURE PLANS: Accepted to multiple universities, decision forthcoming. I plan to study Biomedical Engineering. MOST CHALLENGING OR REWARDING CLASS:
AP Biology taught by Dr. Wines has been the
Tracy Moore Photography
CELEBRATE YOUR 2018 GRADUATE Attention all Grads, Moms, Dads and Grandparents! 24
April 2018 | SALUTE TO VALEDICTORIANS 2018
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Greet A GrAd
19
$
95
This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to celebrate your grads special occasion!
Add $1000 for each additional grad.
deadline: Friday, May 11 Publish date: Sunday, May 20
Register online at www.billingsgazette.com/grads
All Schools Welcome to Participate!