The Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District recently introduced its future-preparedness framework, A Cardinal’s Journey, as a comprehensive guide for student success.
As part of this work, the Board of Education is recognizing students who demonstrate the four mindsets – curious, community-oriented, self-aware, and accountable – along with the four foundations – communication, collaboration, critical thinking & problem solving, and adaptability – that serve as the core of A Cardinal’s Journey.
Each month throughout the school year, the Board honors students nominated by MCPASD teachers and staff for exemplifying one of these essential skills or mindsets. The focus for December was the self-aware mindset.
The focus for December was the self-aware mindset. Five students were recognized at the Dec. 15 Board meeting for demonstrating strong self-awareness: Kromrey Middle School students Kayla Cleaveland and Sara Sofia Davila Ramirez, Middleton High School sophomore Savannah Kellar, Northside Elementary School third grader Riwaz Dahal, and Glacier Creek Middle School student Reece Blazek.
Superintendent Dr. Dana Monogue recognized each student during the meeting, sharing meaningful highlights from their nominations. Board of Education President Bob Hesselbein presented every honoree with a certificate and medal.
Cleaveland was nominated by Green Team Club Advisors Jenna Peterson and Maria Pittner.
In Kayla’s nomination form, they shared “Kayla demonstrates strong leadership by taking initiative in Green Team projects both during and beyond meetings. She is mindful of her role in promoting sustainability, actively seeks out practical solutions she can implement, and inspires others to do the same.”
Kellar was nominated by Counselor LaRon Ragsdale for her exceptional maturity and leadership at Middleton High School.
“Savannah, a sophomore at Middleton High School, truly embodies the traits of a highly self aware and exceptional student leader,” Ragsdale wrote in her nomination form. “She demonstrates a clear understanding of her own thoughts and is consistently in control of her emotions. She carries herself in a way that honors all students and the Middleton High School community, recognizing how her presence can positively impact both herself and others. Savannah keeps her values at the center of what she does and uses her strengths to overcome challenges. She actively seeks opportunities to grow and improve each day.”
Dahal was nominated by third-grade teacher Heidi Adler and Principal Sylla Zarov at Northside Elementary School.
“Riwaz is an amazing third grader who demonstrates incredible maturity for his age by recognizing his strengths and areas for growth and using that understanding to make positive choices throughout the school day,” they wrote in his nomination. “He encourages his classmates to make positive choices and shows empathy toward others. He takes responsibility for his actions and is an incredibly reflective problem solver. Above all, Riwaz is kind and thoughtful to others, grown ups and kids alike, and truly makes this world a better place.”
Davila Ramirez was nominated by eighth-grade teacher Madelynn Randel at Kromrey Middle School.
“Sara shows self-awareness consistently when she pushes herself to try new things in class and persists when things are difficult,” Randel wrote. “She checks in with teachers to advocate for her needs, showing an understanding of what she can do with and without support. Her self awareness and determination are evident as she works toward her social and academic goals.”
Blazek was nominated by Dean of Students Kayla Strommen at Glacier Creek Middle School.
“Reece exemplifies the Cardinal mindsets and foundations by being a kind, compassionate student who is self-aware and respectful of those around her,” Strommen shared. “She maintains a positive attitude, and works hard in everything she does. Reece overcame hardship when she transferred middle schools last year, but she made the best of it and became friends with everyone she met.”
Students recognized for the self-aware mindset follow earlier recognitions this fall for the curious and community-oriented mindsets. In January, students who demonstrate the accountability mindset will be honored.
Join us in congratulating these students for their outstanding accomplishments!