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 November 14, 2024, the Board recognized students from Hopkins Elementary School and Voyager during the Student Spotlight.

Hopkins Elementary School

Isla Thulson was nominated for the Student Spotlight by Hopkins’s art teacher, Mrs. Caven. She had this to say: “Isla is an exemplary learner. She encompasses so many characteristics of the Portrait of an LPS Graduate, but she is especially strong in her CHARACTER and RISK-TAKING. Isla is very comfortable with herself and has a strong belief structure that helps direct her actions for herself and her interactions with others. In art, she is always going above and beyond to take risks to try new ideas and techniques that she hasn't done before. If encountering a problem she uses CRITICAL THINKING to work a solution out that she is pleased with. If the solution doesn't work, she is strong enough to not be hard on herself but thinks through another solution to SOLVE THE PROBLEM.”

Gabriel Garza was nominated for recognition by the PE teacher at Hopkins, Mr. Troth. He said, “I met Gabriel for the first time this school year. I would like to recognize how much he has grown while in physical education class. I see him thriving in areas related to the Portrait of an LPS Graduate. Gabriel is building strong CHARACTER and RESILIENCE during skill development and games. I really like how he has been adapting to the unique social environment in class, while being a SELF-ADVOCATE in many situations. Gabriel participates regularly with good effort. He has a distinct talent for seeing the creative and strategic components of games and activities.”

Beatrix Rogers was nominated for Student Spotlight by Ms. Baty, Hopkin’s music teacher. Ms. Baty said, “Beatrix, a second grader, has shown incredible growth since I first met her in first grade. She has demonstrated remarkable RESILIENCE and a positive transformation this year. Her COMMUNICATION skills have grown tremendously, and she actively participates in class discussions, ensuring her voice is heard while respecting others. Beatrix is also a model of SELF-ADVOCACY, speaking up when she needs help or additional support to succeed. Her COLLABORATION skills shine as she works effectively with classmates, showing kindness and respect. Beatrix's CHARACTER has blossomed, as she consistently makes thoughtful choices and is considerate of others’ feelings. Through her CREATIVITY and PROBLEM-SOLVING abilities, she tackles challenges with an open mind and adapts quickly to new situations. Beatrix is truly deserving of this recognition, and I am so proud of her growth and achievements!”

Jimmy Bednorz was nominated for recognition by his teacher, Mrs. Frye, who said, “Jimmy is an all-around great kid! He works well with all peers and helps others make connections. He is one of the best COLLABORATORS I've ever had the pleasure of working with. Jimmy can work well with anyone and does a great job discussing math concepts and helping others be able to explain their process. His CHARACTER is strong and he stands up for others when they need someone in their corner.”

Voyager

Isabella Rivero, who goes by “Bella,” was nominated for Student Spotlight for her remarkable journey at Voyager. Bella joined Voyager at the beginning of her junior year. At Voyager, she has not only grown her ACADEMIC SKILLS, but she has also used her SELF-ADVOCACY to take charge of her educational path by enrolling in courses at both Voyager and Arapahoe Community College. Bella’s passion for art shines brightly, and she is determined to pursue it further after graduation. Her involvement at Voyager has also allowed her to contribute at home, balancing her responsibilities with her studies. Throughout her time at Voyager, Bella has discovered her voice and made a positive impact on our learning community. Her independence and determination lay a strong foundation for her future endeavors. As she prepares to graduate with the Class of 2025, Bella will be greatly missed, and we celebrate all she has achieved. Congratulations, Bella!