The Student Spotlight segment of each Board meeting celebrates a student or a group of students who are living out the Portrait of an LPS Graduate, which highlights the life skills each LPS graduate should have. Tomorrow’s workers will succeed by constantly adapting to the changing world around them, and today’s students must begin by learning and developing life skills - where every student should be well-adjusted, thriving, and balanced.

Additionally, students will develop skills in:

• Communication
• Global/Cultural Awareness
• Character & Critical Thinking
• Problem Solving and Adaptability
• Creativity and Risk Taking
• Resiliency and Collaboration
• Self Advocacy
• All surrounding Rigorous and Relevant Academic Skills

LPS strives to implement opportunities to grow these skills at every level of education and recognize students of all ages. At their regularly scheduled meeting on February 27, 2025, the Board recognized students from Runyon Elementary School and Field Elementary School during the Student Spotlight.

Runyon Elementary School
An incredible group of students from Runyon was recognized for their exceptional contributions to the school and their personal growth:

• Jack Trujillo
• Abby W.
• Sofia Gzym
• Maddy Miller
• Elizabeth Underwood
• Theo Gundlach
• Poppy Cuthbert
• Colin O’Brien
• River Beckwith
• Piper Mugele
• Oden Borchardt

These students are shining examples of RESILIENCE, CREATIVITY, and PROBLEM-SOLVING, consistently stretching their learning beyond expectations. They actively seek out opportunities to challenge themselves in Runyon’s Herds, which are monthly get-togethers involving students from all grade levels. Students do an activity together, and the goal of Herds is to foster and increase a sense of belonging. These students are always striving to take their thinking further and explore new perspectives, valuing and including the thinking of all. 

These students are natural problem solvers, consistently demonstrating creativity and resiliency in tackling challenges. Their perseverance and determination inspire those around them to keep pushing forward, no matter the difficulty.

These Rams’ kindness and humility set them apart. They are always willing to lend a helping hand to peers, showing genuine care and compassion to everyone they interact with, no matter their skillset or ability. They advocate for others in their Herds, making sure all voices are celebrated and receive equal access, showcasing their GLOBAL AND CULTURAL AWARENESS. They make meaningful connections with others, both in and outside of the classroom, and are known for being supportive, thoughtful, and considerate friends, showing up as natural leaders and ensuring inclusive participation.

These students embody the qualities we value in an LPS graduate. They thrive in COLLABORATIVE environments, valuing teamwork and actively contributing to group efforts. Their enthusiasm for learning and their ability to work well with others make them stand out individuals in monthly Herd meetings. Way to go, Rams!

Field Elementary School
Alden Clinton has been a valuable member of the Field community, embodying the traits of the LPS Portrait of a Graduate in meaningful ways. His ADAPTABILITY is evident in his ability to navigate challenges with a positive attitude, embracing new learning opportunities with RESILIENCE. Alden consistently demonstrates strong CHARACTER, treating peers and teachers with kindness, integrity, and respect. His willingness to engage in COLLABORATION has strengthened the Field community, as he contributes thoughtful ideas and supports others in group settings. Additionally, Alden is not afraid of RISK-TAKING, stepping out of his comfort zone to explore new perspectives and tackle difficult problems with determination. His presence has enriched Field, and we are grateful for his contributions!

Piper Clinton is new to Field this year but has quickly become an integral part of the school community. She embodies Mustang PRIDE values—perseverance, respect, inclusivity, dedication, and empathy. She brings a fresh perspective and a positive attitude to every task. In group work, she perseveres and helps push her peers' thinking and advance their work. She treats others with kindness and respect, ensuring everyone feels included. Her dedication to learning and COLLABORATION, along with her ADAPTABILITY embody the LPS Portrait of a Graduate traits. Piper is a wonderful addition to Field and LPS!

Jaycee Kelly has demonstrated great ADAPTABILITY and PROBLEM-SOLVING skills during her kindergarten year. Not only is she a strong CRITICAL THINKER, she strives to be inclusive of others during any COLLABORATION work. Jaycee works well with every student in her class and has shown strong RESILIENCE as she perseveres to learn new skills and concepts. She is a striving reader who CREATIVELY approaches comprehension by asking questions and engaging with focus. She has a bright future at Field and in LPS!

Jailen Kelly is a new student at Field this year, and his ADAPTABILITY to changes in his environment, teachers, classmates, and routines stands out in such a positive way. Jailen jumped right in to making friends and becoming a beloved member of his second grade class. He is a person of great CHARACTER and shows this daily in his kindness and respect for others, including himself. Students look up to him as a leader as he works hard at every task, keeps a positive attitude always, and accepts new learning and challenges with a growth mindset.

Chaos Haskie is new to the Field community this year. He quickly integrated himself into the classroom and the school by joining the soccer team and becoming friends with everyone, displaying his skills in COLLABORATION. His outgoing personality and RISK-TAKING drive to seek new challenges has made him a student whom every adult and student enjoys working with. His easy-going personality and his desire to learn make him a great friend, classmate, and student. His teacher said, “I am so glad that Chaos joined our classroom at Field and I am so excited for him to continue his success in middle school!”

Chris Haskie has been a wonderful addition to his fourth grade class and to the Field community. Being a new student at the beginning of this year, he has learned and demonstrated so many skills that are reflected in the Portrait of an LPS Graduate. His increased confidence has allowed him the ability to COLLABORATE and be a leader to his peers. Chris’ growth in the areas of RISK-TAKING, ADAPTABILITY, and CHARACTER has made him an obvious student to receive this recognition. We are so proud of the growth Chris has made this year!