March 2025 Student of the Month

Avery Beane of Alton Middle School
Maebri Gill of Lewis & Clark Elementary

Avery Beane is an outstanding 8th grade student at Alton Middle School.  She exemplifies the qualities of a true leader through her quiet yet powerful presence, both in the classroom and beyond.  Avery leads by example, inspiring peers with her dedication,  hard work, and positive attitude.  She is a large contributor to a supportive and productive learning environment.  Avery plays Volleyball and Soccer when she is not in school.

Maebri is a first grade student at Lewis and Clark Elementary.  She enjoys helping her teacher in the classroom as well as her peers.  She excels in all academic areas.  Maebri is special because of her compassion for others.  Her enthusiasm and hard work is contagious.  We are proud of her kindness and character she displays daily.  She is an excellent example of respectful, responsible, and kind.  When she is not at school, she enjoys playing with her brother and sister, learning about sea creatures, and is interested in orchestra in the future!

February 2025 Student of the Month

Elijah Hartmann of Alton Middle School
Chloe Younger of East Elementary

Elijah is a phenomenal student who is always prepared for class, actively participates, and exemplifies each classroom’s social contract. Throughout his time at Alton Middle School he has maintained high honor roll status. Whether in academics or extracurricular activities, Elijah consistently excels. In addition to his outstanding academic achievements, he is a talented athlete, showcasing his skills in track, cross-country, soccer, and baseball. Friendly to both staff and peers, Elijah utilizes his full potential and demonstrates strong leadership qualities through his dependability, understanding, and positivity. Despite his quiet nature, he stands out as a calm and steady presence, always ready to learn with a contagious energy and a bright smile. His dedication to success in and out of school makes him truly deserving of this recognition.  

Chloe Younger is a shining star in the fifth grade at East Elementary, radiating optimism and excellence in all she does. She approaches learning with enthusiasm, inspires those around her, and sets a high standard through her determination and kindness. Whether tackling assignments, offering a helping hand, or sharing words of encouragement, Chloe’s infectious smile and positive attitude make her a joy to be around. She embodies resilience, hard work, responsibility, and helpfulness, making her a truly remarkable student. Beyond the classroom, she actively participates in various extracurricular activities, always striving to improve and grow.

January 2025 Student of the Month

Henry Gabriel of Alton Middle School
Kenlee Harrington of Eunice Smith Elementary

Henry Gabriel is an outstanding 8th grade student at Alton Middle School.  He is a good role model for all students at AMS. He is kind to students and staff.  At school, Henry has been on the high honor roll, and is a part of the National Junior Honors Society. Henry is also a part of the Volleyball team and Yearbook Club.  He actively listens and participates in class and always tries his very best. Henry always comes to school with a great attitude and is ready to learn.  He exemplifies all characteristics of being an Optimist and has such a bright future ahead of him. 

Kenlee is a second grade student at Eunice Smith Elementary who embodies every characteristic of an outstanding student and a true Optimist. Kenlee is passionate about learning and takes great care with her work. She is witty, an intuitive learner, excels at art, is imaginative, caring, brave, and kind. She is a good friend to her peers, and is encouraging to all.  Kenlee is a great role model. When Kenlee is not at school, she enjoys cuddling with her dog, riding her bike and dancing with her older sister. She has many interests including reading, ice skating, and drawing dogs and fruit. When she grows up, Kenlee would like to be an artist or a teacher. 

November 2024 Student of the Month

Swara Jadhav of Alton Middle School
Amina Snipes and Mila Snipes of Lovejoy Elementary

Swara is an outstanding 8th-grader at Alton Middle School.  She is a positive role model for all students at AMS. She is kind to students and staff and just a joy to be around.  She is intelligent, hard working, a critical thinker, respectful, curious, team player and goal oriented.  Swara has been on the high honor roll, and is a part of the National Junior Honors Society.  Outside of school, she loves to read and write, play board games and badminton with friends and family.  

Amina Snipes and Mila Snipes are second grade students at Lovejoy Elementary who exemplify optimism in every way.  Amina consistently brings a positive attitude to the classroom, which greatly enhances the learning environment for everyone. Her helpful nature and sense of humor make teaching enjoyable, and she often lightens the mood during lessons, encouraging her peers to engage and participate.  Mila excels in all academic areas, she loves to draw and is a wonderful writer and illustrator. Her illustrations are always colored vibrantly and contain many tiny details.  Mila also loves riding roller coasters. Both Amina and Mila are great examples of true character. They can be trusted to do the right thing even when no one is watching.

October 2024 Student of the Month

Julius Ezeagu of West Elementary

Julius is a fifth grader who exemplifies all the qualities of an Optimist.  He prioritizes his school work, tries hard in class, and never gives up. He plays the clarinet in band, the violin in the orchestra, and is a member of the tennis club. Julius is also involved in helping with PE at the end of every school day and was nominated to join our Gentlemen’s Group. He balances his commitments with a cheerful, positive attitude and is always one of the first to have his materials ready to go in class.   Julius is an all-around great scholar, a hard worker, and someone who is always willing to help classmates and teachers.  Julius’s passion for learning is clear in everything he does. His favorite subject is writing, and he has enjoyed project-based learning and collaboration in his fifth grade classroom.  Beyond academics, Julius’s interests include Legos, architecture, dogs, and fashion. His mother describes him as the “go-to guy” in the family, always responsible and helpful.  West is so proud of Julius!

September 2024 Student of the Month

Willie Barbee IV of Alton Middle School
Ellyn Dix of North Elementary

Willie Barbee IV is an 8th grade student at Alton Middle School. He is a member of the Football team and loves to play basketball in his free time. Willie works hard in school. He is on honor roll and takes his academics very seriously, Willie’s teachers describe him as a very bright student who tries his best on all he does. He is kind to his peers as well as adults, often offering to help others when needed. He participates in class and genuinely get s excited to share and celebrate good things with his classmates.

Ellyn Dix is a 5th grade student at North Elementary. She excels in both academics and character. She has shown an incredible dedication to her learning. She shows kindness, respect and willingness to help others. She is a great role model academically and behaviorally. She has a smile that radiates in all she does. Ellyn enjoys playing the violin in the orchestra and hockey. She loves to skate!

May 2024 Student of the Month

Josh Lumpkins of Alton Middle School

Josh represents what it is truly like to be an outstanding athlete but also an outstanding student.  Josh is a fun, energetic and smart student. He works to achieve balance between academics and extracurricular activities. His effort in class and in sports shows that he desires to be successful at both. He shows commitment and dedication to every sport he plays. He has a very inspiring personality because he is a leader and he has vision. Josh is respectful to staff and to students.  He shows great leadership and other teammates look up to him. Josh always comes to class with a positive attitude and is willing to go above and beyond to help others. He possesses a personal drive and determination that will take him far in life; whatever path he chooses. Josh is a star both on and off the field! 

April 2024 Students of the Month

Kieley Woods of Alton Middle School
Isaiah Taylor of Mark Twain Elementary

Kieley Woods of Alton Middle School is a wonderful young woman.  She exemplifies the characteristics of Optimist Student of the Month. Kieley is an amazing student who is extremely polite. Kieley has fantastic grades! She has straight As for all four quarters of school. This is a pattern that Kieley has had since she came to Alton Middle school. She takes her academics very seriously and is an extremely smart young lady. At school Kieley is an active member of the National Jr. Honor Society. She likes to give back to her community by volunteering her time.  Kieley is a hard-working, caring young lady who cares about her work and grades.  She is kind to her fellow students and will assist them if they need help in the classroom.She has dreams and goals she is willing to work towards and recognizes she has what it takes to meet them. Kieley is respectful and kind to adults and students both within and outside the classroom.

Isaiah Taylor is a student at Mark Twain school.  Isaiah was nominated and selected to be the recipient of this award due to his tremendous growth in the area of academics and social skills. Isaiah has had many accomplishments throughout this school year. He has a fun sense of humor and has demonstrated that level of maturity and empathy for others that has helped him to be successful this year. He has always been respectful, funny, and kind.  However, he is now exhibiting confidence which allows others to enjoy the positive characteristics as well.  With the added confidence, Isaiah challenges himself in ways he never thought imaginable. Isaiah is a role model to those younger than him.  

March 2024 Students of the Month

Jaylah Chambers of Alton Middle School
Sophia Banks of Lewis and Clark Elementary School

Jaylah Chambers of Alton Middle School is a wonderful young woman.  She exemplifies the characteristics of Optimist Student of the Month.  Jaylah is not only an excellent student, but is also a caring young woman who strives to lead by example for her peers. She is so sweet and always polite to everyone she sees.  Her smile just lights up a room. Her dedication to her learning is evident in her grades.  Jaylah always comes prepared to class and makes sure others are prepared as well. She always strives to completely understand the material and asks questions until she does. She deserves to be recognized for her hard work and leadership within the classroom.  Jaylah is a cheerleader for the Alton Middle School Football and Competition Team.  She also is currently running track for AMS. 

Sophia Banks is a student at Lewis and Clark Elementary school.  She is a very helpful student and cares deeply for her peers.  Sophia is always looking out for her peers.  She is a hard working student with high expectations for herself.  She is enthusiastic about reading and writing and even participated in Young Authors this year.  Sophia has an upbeat personality and her bubbly personality is contagious.  She always has a smile on her face.  Outside of school, she enjoys art projects at home and helping her mom and dad around the house.  She especially enjoys cooking with her mom!

February 2024 Students of the Month

Niyam Patel of Alton Middle School
Peter Milien II of East Elementary School

Niyam Patel of Alton Middle School is a wonderful young man.  Niyam puts school first.  He is a straight A student and is on the high honor roll.  He is kind to others, respectful, and funny.  He loves science and hopes to be an aerospace engineer one day.  Niyam enters all of his classes with a positive attitude and is eager to participate and learn.  He leads by example and exemplifies the highest level of sportsmanship to his classmates, teachers, and fellow athletes.  He is on the basketball team and baseball team at AMS.  He is a hard worker, coachable, and a great teammate! He loves to help others and is very encouraging to peers.  

Peter Milien II of East Elementary exemplifies what it means to be an optimist.  Peter is kind and responsible and truly values his education.  Peter embodies all the characteristics of a model Redbird and is an outstanding student. He is a high honor roll student who prides himself on his grades and hard work in and out of school. He works hard because it makes him feel accomplished and loves helping people. Peter says that helping people is important and brings him joy. He is involved in a variety of extra-curricular activities.  Peter participates in Young Authors, has been on High Honor Roll, and was recognized as Student of the Week. He also prides himself on being at school every day. Writing is one of his favorite subjects because he loves to create stories.  Outside of school, he is an avid basketball player and helping his community is important to him.  Peter is starting his own podcast to report on NBA basketball.  He already has the equipment and is looking to get this started very soon.

January 2024 Students of the Month

Malak Seddati of Alton Middle School
Elaina Gernigin of Eunice Smith Elementary School

Malak Seddati of Alton Middle School is an outstanding student.  She is a caring young woman who strives to lead by example for her peers.  She does an excellent job of balancing her academics with extra curricular activities.  She is a member of the AMS Band and Orchestra, as well as many clubs on campus.  She loves to play soccer and softball.  She is a fantastic role model in the school community.  She is kind, compassionate, thoughtful, and driven.  She has great leadership skills and enjoys helping others who may be struggling.  She is a kind-hearted soul and always greets you with a smile!

Lainey Gernigan of Eunice Smith Elementary embodies every characteristic of an outstanding student and a true Optimist.  She is passionate about learning and takes great pride in her work.  She is witty, an intuitive learner, excels at art, is imaginative, creative, caring, brave, and kind.  She is a good friend to her peers and encouraging to all.  She constantly tries her best and comes to school with a great attitude and ready to learn.  She enjoys playing with her sister and her friends.  She’s especially interested in Barbies, gymnastics, and art.  She would love to be a chef when she grows up and is continually practicing her culinary skills at home cooking with her family.

December 2023 Students of the Month

Dean Kirkland of Alton Middle School
Vada Ealey of Gilson Brown Elementary School

Dean Kirkland of Alton Middle School is dedicated to his academic and personal growth this school year.  He shows his peers and teachers what it means to be a team player in the classroom.  He participated in AMS Football this fall and was an exemplary player.  He motivates his teammates to do their best through positive encouragement.  He goes above and beyond in everything he does.  He currently participates in Honors Ban, Jazz Bank, as well as AMS Band. He is always cheerful and smiling!

Vada Ealey of Gilson Brown Elementary exemplifies what it means to be an optimist.  She is always enthusiastic about the success of others as well as her own.  She is always cheering for other students.  She is a great friend.  She pushes herself hard every day and always has a kind word and smile for all she meets.  Her favorite part of the school day is when her teacher reads to the class.  She loves spending time with her family, enjoys nature, and loves to collect items from the outdoors such as acorns and rocks.  

November 2023 Students of the Month

Isaiah Cooper of Alton Middle School
Emerson Roderfeld of Lovejoy Elementary School

Isaiah Cooper of Alton Middle School is an excellent student and a caring young man who strives to lead by example for his peers.  He is a joy to have in class every day.  He puts his full effort into whatever he does whether it is school, sports, or friendships.  He strives to be the best version of himself he can be.  He does an excellent job balancing his academics with extracurricular activities.  He is on the track and cross country team, plays soccer, and is an active member of his church.  

Emerson Roderfeld, of Lovejoy Elementary School, exemplifies so many wonderful characteristics of optimism. Emerson is a good friend to all of her peers. She is caring and very kind. Emerson is always in a great mood and loves being at school. She continually is kind to others and has an innate ability to know when others need help or are feeling sad.  She has intrinsic motivation and does the right thing even when nobody’s watching.  She can always be trusted to make the right choice.  What a great role model! When she is not in school, Emerson enjoys playing the piano, riding horses and taking dance lessons.

October 2023 Students of the Month

Miguel Hernandez of Alton Middle School
Jack Phillips of West Elementary School

Miguel Hernandez of Alton Middle School exemplifies all of the characteristics of a true optimist.  Miguel is an amazing young man. One of the most polite young men you will meet. Miguel goes above and beyond to help others.  He is a conscientious and hardworking student.  He works hard to maintain excellent grades and is currently inducted into the National Junior Honor Society. Miguel is also a member of the 8th grade baseball team where he has played many positions.  Outside of school Miguel likes to help at his church. Miguel stated that he loves to help others when they are in need. Sports is one of his passions. Outside of school he plays soccer, basketball, and baseball. He is also training for boxing. 

Jack Phillips, of West Elementary School, exemplifies so many wonderful characteristics! He is very polite and considerate of others.  He is responsible, respectful and hard working.  He is a role model and leader in the classroom.  His love of learning is always on display.  You can often find him invested in a good book, helping others with math concepts, or working to solve a complex science problem.  He participates in school events each year such as Science Fair, Young Authors, and Math Competition.  He is not only an excellent student but a very talented musician.  He plays the Cello in the Orchestra and the Alton Youth Symphony Orchestra as well as the saxophone in the band.  When he isn’t at school or working on music, he loves to play soccer and baseball! 

September 2023 Students of the Month

Thea Niemeyer of Alton Middle School
Jacob Wilson of North Elementary School

Thea Niemeyer, of Alton Middle School, is a wonderful caring young lady.  Thea exemplifies the characteristics of Optimist Student of the Month.  Thea is not only an excellent student, but is also a caring young woman who strives to lead by example for her peers. Thea is an Honors Math and Honors English/Language Arts student.  She also has  maintained straight A’s and a cumulative GPA of a 4.0 during her time at AMS. Thea deserves to be recognized for her hard work and leadership within the classroom. Thea does an excellent job balancing her academics with extra curricular activities.   She enjoys being part of the Alton Middle School Theater Club.  She has also participated in basketball and softball outside of school.  

Jacob Wilson, of North Elementary School, exemplifies all of the characteristics of an optimist! He is very polite and considerate of others.  He always strives to make others feel included and welcome.  Jacob tries to help everyone that is in need.  Jacob is a kind hearted student and works hard at everything he does! He is a leader in the classroom and a friend to everyone.  At school, Jacob loves math! He wants to play football and begin wrestling in the future.  

May 2023 Students of the Month

Kourtnee Evans of Alton Middle School
Riley Hendricks of Early Childhood Center

Kourtnee Evans, of Alton Middle School, is an outstanding young lady.  Kourtnee is a hard worker, positive, and kind.  She is a fantastic role model for other students.  You can count on her to be committed and focused on all of her goals.  She brings fun and laughter to school but also is very serious about her academics.  She maintains her grades while playing multiple sports throughout the year.  She is not only the Optimist Student of the Month, but is also Alton Middle School’s athlete of the year.  Alton Middle School is very grateful to have Kourtnee as an example of excellence in their learning community.

Riley Hendricks is a preschool student at Early Childhood Center.  He is such a joy to have in class.  He excels academically and is a friend to all of his classmates.  Riley is a peer mentor for other students and an eager helper in the classroom.  He has wonderful leadership skills at such a young age.  Riley enjoys basketball, gymnastics, swimming, gardening and helping his grandpa build things.  He is an outstanding young man.  He is eager, self-motivated, and a very curious learner.  He takes pride in his work and sets a great example.  

April 2023 Students of the Month

Laila Kiger of Alton Middle School
Benjamin Duley of Mark Twain Elementary School

Laila Kiger, of Alton Middle School, is a wonderful caring young lady.  She works hard inside and outside of school.  She makes straight A’s and is a part of the National Junior Honors Society.  She tries her best on any task given.  She is kind to both peers and adults.  Laila is highly motivated to excel in school.  Her work ethics are admirable.  She plays in the band and was a cheerleader during the middle school football season.  She also participates in Tennis and Crossfit outside of school.  She is the definition of an Optimist! 

Benjamin Duley is a first grade student at Mark Twain School.  Throughout the school year he became a natural leader by showing others how to be a good friend, participate in academic tasks and do the right thing at all times.  He enjoys learning new topics, especially in science and math.  He has a strong love for his family and pets and enjoys spending time with them outside of school.

March 2023 Student of the Month

Colin Sancamper of Alton Middle School

Colin Sancamper, of Alton Middle School, is an excellent student and a caring young man who strives to lead by example for his peers.  He is a high honor roll student who is a leader in the classroom.  He continues to work hard each day.  He is respectful to all of his teachers and classmates, coming in with a great attitude and a warm smile and greeting.  He works hard and holds himself to a high standard.  Along with maintaining good grades, he is involved in the Orchestra program at AMS as well as Jazzio’s.  He is actively involved in the National Junior Honor Society and likes to volunteer at the Farmer’s Market with his family.

February 2023 Students of the Month

Rory Fox of Alton Middle School
Samuel Herring of East Elementary School

Rory Fox, of Alton Middle School, is an outstanding student who works hard to treat others with kindness and respect both inside of school and outside of school.  He is honest, respectful, responsible, and thoughtful.  He always comes to class with a smile on his face.  He helps lead class discussions, is always on task, and helps others when needed.  He’s a great role model who takes his academics seriously.  He is a natural born leader.  Rory is also the basketball manager for the girl’s basketball team.

Sam Herring is a fifth grade student at East Elementary.  He embodies every characteristic of an outstanding student.  Sam is a true optimist.  He is very passionate about his learning and always does his very best.  He is the type of student that eagerly participates in school every day with a smile on his face and tries his very best on his work.  He goes out of his way to look out for and help others.  Sam is a sweet young man that brings out the best in others.  He is a leader in the classroom and is a star student at East! 

January 2023 Students of the Month

Jaycee Dwiggins and Jordyn Green of Alton Middle School
Sierah Cutright of Eunice Smith Elementary School

Jaycee Dwiggins, of Alton Middle School, is a wonderful student that cares for others.  She is a member of the Student Council and is always eager to help out in the community.  Jaycee embodies the Optimist spirit by bringing a positive “can do” attitude in everything she does.  From academics, to sports, to community service, Jaycee always gives more than 100% and always does so with a smile on her face.  She has a positive attitude and is looked up to by her peers.  Jaycee is very athletic.  She was on the cross country team this year, as well as the volleyball team.  Outside of school she plays soccer and is interested in taking up bowling.  

Jordyn Green, of Alton Middle School, is a wonderful student that depicts the characteristics of an Optimist.  She has excellent grades and is on the high honor roll.  She is the type of student that strives to improve and always does her best.  She is always prepared and attentive and cares deeply about her education.  She is a great student and classmate.  She inspires others and is a positive leader in the class.  She always goes above and beyond and works hard during school, regardless of the subject.  Jordyn is also very busy outside of school.  She is very active in her church.  She plays the piano and continues to take lessons to perfect her piano skills.  Alton Middle School is grateful to have Jordyn as an example of excellence in our learning community.

Sierah Cutright is a student at Eunice Smith Elementary.  She embodies every characteristic of an outstanding student and a true Optimist.  She is passionate about learning and always does her best.  She comes to school each day with a smile on her face and ready to take on any task that she is given.  She is someone that goes out of her way to encourage her peers, be a good friend, and make good choices.  When Sierah is not at school she enjoys writing stories, singing, baking, reading books and taking naps.  She hopes to become the first woman President someday, but is also interested in becoming a fashion designer or hair stylist.  She has a bright future ahead!

November 2022 Students of the Month

Linus Myers of Alton Middle School
Emma Montague of Lovejoy Elementary School

Linus Myers is the son of Dave and Megan Myers of Alton.  Linus exemplifies the characteristics of being an Optimist.  He is an excellent student and a caring young man who strives to lead by example for his peers.  He goes above and beyond the expectations on a regular basis.  Along with maintaining stellar academic scores and excellent behavior in the classroom. Linus is also very involved in soccer outside of school.  He is a standout soccer player, straight A student, and has an admirable work ethic.  He is invested in his education and has a bright future ahead!

Emma Montague is the daughter of Miles and Ashley Montague of Godfrey.  She is such a sweet student.  Emma is always positive and a great role model for her peers. She is a good friend to all she meets. She encourages other students by showing excitement to learn and to make the most of the day. Emma loves to read and puts forth her best each and every day.  She is the true definition of optimism.  Emma’s smile is contagious and she makes every day at Lovejoy that much brighter! 

October 2022 Students of the Month

Benjamin Hilgert of Alton Middle School
Hayley Young of West Elementary School

Benjamin Hilgert is the son of Mark Hilgert of Alton.  Benjamin is an outstanding student that has worked hard at Alton Middle School.  He is successful in class and kind to others.  He is an honor roll student and a member of the band, where he plays alto saxophone.  He goes out of his way to help others in need.  He always asks questions and participates in class.  He listens, tries hard, and always has an excellent attitude.  Outside of school he is an active member of his church and has also volunteered for Vintage Voices and enjoys portraying influential historical figures.

Haylee Young is the daughter of Michael and Tabitha Young of Alton.  Haylee is a fifth grade student at West Elementary.  She is a sweet and hardworking student.  She is always a helper in the classroom.  She is a positive role model and a friend for all students.  She often motivates others with her positive attitude.  Haylee is in the school orchestra.  She strives her best daily in her school work and grades.  She is invested in her education and has a bright future ahead.  When she is not at school, Haylee works hard at competitive dance and enjoys teaching younger students about dance.

September 2022 Students of the Month

Michael Henry of Alton Middle School
Jayden Connors of North Elementary School

Michael Henry is the son of Michael Henry and Ashlee Henry of Alton. He is an 8th grade student at Alton Middle School. Michael exemplifies the characteristics of Optimist Student of the Month. Michael is not only an excellent student, but is also a caring young man who strives to lead by example for his peers. Michael is a high honor roll student that deserves to be recognized for his hard work and leadership within the classroom. Michael goes above and beyond our expectations on a regular basis. Along with maintaining good grades and excellent behavior in the classroom, Michael is also involved in the football and basketball program at AMS. He enjoys volunteering with his dad and loves to help younger children learn to play basketball. He leads by example and is always respectful and kind to others. Michael has an extremely bright future ahead of him!

Jayden Connors is the son of Shawn Connors Sr. and Tara Connors of Godfrey. Jayden is a fifth grade student at North Elementary. He works hard daily to be happy and help others. He stays active and engaged in each subject at school. His favorite subject is reading and he enjoys reading action books and shark books! He loves playing kickball and likes to problem solve during games. His teacher is very proud of his hard work this year. Jayden loves to cook with his mom and dad. In the future, Jayden aspires to run marathons and go to college. He is the true definition of optimism in all that he does each and every day.

May 2022 Students of the Month

Rayna Raglin of Alton Middle School
Lincoln Turner of Early Childhood Center

Rayna Raglin is the daughter of Rodney and Antonia Raglin of Alton.
She is an outstanding student at Alton Middle School. Rayna is the
definition of a student athlete. Her grades are phenomenal and her
character is unlike any other. Both on and off the field her character is contagious. She puts
forth work in the classroom and in practices to be the best she can be. She leads her
teammates in the same work ethic and pushes others to be stronger and successful too. She
is a true Redbird and represents Alton Middle School well.

Lincoln Turner is the son of Michael and Venisse Turner of Godfrey. Lincoln is always positive
with his interactions with peers and adults. He is responsive to the needs of others and
demonstrates basic school rules of being kind and being safe. He is always enthusiastic about
learning and tries his best. He is a positive role model in the class every day. He loves books
about dinosaurs and is looking forward to Kindergarten!

April 2022 Students of the Month

Daija Merrifield of Alton Middle School
Jace Skelton of Mark Twain School

Daija Merrifield is the daughter of Glana Randle of Alton. She is an
outstanding student at Alton Middle School. She is highly motivated, strives for excellence in her school work, and is hardworking in everything she does. She is in Chorus and National Jr. Honor Society. Daija is described as kind, intelligent and a critical thinker. She goes out of her way to help others. She genuinely cares about her classmates and her teachers. When Daija is not in school she volunteers at the Boys and Girls Club. She also works with Cristina L. Brice Foundation. She is very active in the community and recently organized an Easter Egg hunt for younger children.

Jace Skelton is the son of Robert Skelton of Godfrey. He has had many accomplishments this
school year. He continues to grow academically and socially. He has worked very hard in
math this year. He shows eagerness to learn and participates with class discussions. His
academic accomplishments have allowed him to feel confident this year in school. Jace has a
great sense of humor and is empathetic towards others. His teachers are very proud of his
hard work this year.

March 2022 Students of the Month

Stella Cowan of Alton Middle School
Mia Marko of East Elementary School

Stella Cowan is the daughter of Benjamin and Megan Cowan from Alton. Stella is an 8th
grade student at Alton Middle School. She exemplifies all of the characteristics of an optimist.
She is an excellent student and leads by example. She works hard in the classroom each and
every day. Stella is polite and maintains a positive attitude at all times. She excels in writing
and enjoys creating illustrations in her spare time. She is currently working on a novel that she
hopes to have published one day. Stella is involved in the drama program at AMS, a member
of the National Junior Honor Society, and is hoping to play soccer at Alton High School.

Mia Marko is the daughter of James and Amanda Marko from Alton. Mia is a fifth grade
student at East Elementary. She is a terrific student, enjoys learning and can always be
counted on in the classroom. She follows directions and is a leader among her peers. Mia is a
kind person and enjoys giving back to her community. She is a model Redbird at East
Elementary. She challenges herself, works hard in school and continues to enjoy outside
activities while maintaining excellent grades. Mia is in Orchestra, participates in peer tutoring
opportunities, and has recently written a Young Authors book. She wants to help people when
she grows up by either pursuing a career in nursing or teaching.

February 2022 Students of the Month

Mykol Harris of Alton Middle School
Talia McDonald of Lewis & Clark Elementary School

Mykol Harris is the son of Amanda Jett and Andre Harris from Alton. She is currently in the 6th
grade at Alton Middle School. Mykol is a wonderful role model for all students at AMS. He is
friendly with students and staff and a joy to be around. He is a kind hearted individual and is
well respected by staff and peers. He works hard in the classroom and continues to strive to
be the best student he can be. He is a true optimist and always looks at the positive side of
things. Family is very important to Mykol. He loves spending time with his family and his
brothers are his role models. In his spare time he enjoys working on landscaping with his dad
and playing in the chess club.

Talia McDonald is the daughter of Jeffrey and Lacy McDonald from Godfrey. She is a first
grade student at Gilson Brown Elementary. Talia is a wonderful role model and a model
student. She always wants to learn more and goes well above and beyond what is expected
of a first grade student. She often thinks of others and puts the needs of others before her
own. Talia celebrates other’s accomplishments and is encouraging to peers. She enjoys
playing outside, helping in the garden, baking, and doing art projects.

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