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 13, 2025, the Board recognized students from Options Middle School and Nova Center during the Student Spotlight.

Options Middle School

Loretta Von Cloedt is commended for her maturity, strength and leadership. Loretta day in and day out demonstrates RESILIENCE uncommon to many teens. Loretta leads by example and TAKES RISKS with her thinking while also maintaining friendships and working to ensure the inclusion of all students. Just like Littleton’s motto, Loretta has come to embrace the credo that “All Means All” when it comes to acceptance of ideas, background, and varied differences. Loretta's experience in therapeutic settings helps her lead healing for her peers while participating in multiple support groups on campus. In a short time, Loretta has become a pillar at Options despite uncertainty and change in her personal life. She is truly a steady ship in turbulent waters. Loretta is a SELF-ADVOCATE and also advocates for her peers. She demonstrates that challenges are opportunities for growth, and they make us stronger. Options and LPS are better places because of Loretta.

Jasper Christians has demonstrated tremendous growth in academics and change in this past year, which Options staff  attribute to his maturity and the way in which he approaches challenges. They are impressed by the example Jasper sets for others in how to effectively manage emotions, even in the most difficult situations. His commitment to this change is a testament to his RESILIENCE and emotional maturity. ACADEMICALLY, Jasper's efforts have been equally impressive. He has consistently shown that he is willing to put in the hard work to excel, and the results speak for themselves. His perseverance and determination are qualities that will serve him well as he continues to grow and strive for excellence. Jasper stands out for his respectfulness towards peers and teachers, for demonstrating kindness and consideration for others, and is always ready to lend a hand when needed. Jasper, keep up the excellent work and know that your efforts do not go unnoticed!

Nailani Brogan has demonstrated remarkable growth throughout the last couple of school years at Options. It has been a pleasure to witness her commitment to her ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE. Nailani has the ability to  maintain a positive and supportive presence among her peers. Her CHARACTER enables her to handle challenging situations with maturity. Equally important is the way she supports others. Her caring nature shines through in how she offers help and kindness to those around her. Whether it’s lending a hand to a fellow student or offering words of encouragement, she consistently makes a positive impact on the school community. Nailani, please know that all of your efforts do not go unnoticed. You are growing into a person of great strength and integrity, and we have no doubt that you will continue to make us proud as you move forward. Keep up the great work, and know that we are cheering you on every step of the way.

Mateo Brower takes pride in his work and consistently follows through on assignments and even exceeds expectations - especially in math! Mateo’s hard work has not only enhanced his ACADEMIC SUCCESS but also strengthened his relationships with peers and staff. Off campus, Mateo has been a leader and RISK-TAKER in the Options Middle School Connect Program in the community, where he has participated in rock climbing, volunteering in elementary classrooms, hiking, and developing skills on mindfulness and meditation. Mateo is the epitome of the LPS Portrait of a Graduate. Congratulations, Mateo!

Elizabeth Felix Santos is being recognized for her RISK-TAKING and SELF-ADVOCACY. She has shown tremendous growth in her ability to advocate for herself when she doesn't understand something or needs help communicating with a friend. Most of us find it difficult to self advocate sometimes. It was not always easy for Elizabeth either, but now she understands that knowing when you need help is a strength. She is also a multi-language learner, and during her time at Options, she has demonstrated a strong desire to try to COMMUNICATE with other students and teachers in English. This is not a small feat; it often takes students years to feel comfortable trying to communicate in a new language. Elizabeth, we are so happy to have you as part of the Options Secondary community.

Eli Wasserman has been a student at Options for the past year and a half. Eli was especially passionate about the filmmaking class offered in conjunction with the Binning Foundation. During this time, he showed remarkable growth and development in various areas, particularly in RISK-TAKING, CREATIVITY, LEADERSHIP, and COLLABORATION. From the get-go, Eli was one of the youngest participants in the class. Despite this, he immediately took on a leadership role, guiding his peers through the collaborative process of creating a stunning final project. His willingness to take risks was evident as he embraced creative challenges, encouraging his team to explore innovative ideas that resulted in an outstanding finished product. Due to his exceptional performance in the class, we were thrilled to recommend Eli for the Binning Summer Film School, which provides teens with an opportunity to delve into the art and science of filmmaking. There he was able to learn essential skills such as screenwriting, cinematography, lighting, sound, directing, acting, and editing. Once again, Eli stood out as one of the youngest students in the program. His contributions were invaluable, and he and his team earned the esteemed Best Picture award. Beyond the technical skills he acquired, Eli's ability to foster a positive and collaborative environment made a significant impact on his peers both here at Options and at The Film School. He embraced the joy of filmmaking and shared that enthusiasm with his classmates, ensuring that everyone felt valued and included.

We are so proud of all of these outstanding Options Middle School students!