At the regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting on May 11, 2023, two students from Heritage High School were recognized during the Student Spotlight. Throughout the year, schools nominate a student or a group of students who are living out the Portrait of an LPS Graduate, which outlines the skills every LPS graduate should have. These skills include:

• Well-adjusted, thriving and balanced being the most prominent
• Communication
• Global/Cultural Awareness
• Character
• Critical Thinking
• Problem Solving
• Adaptability
• Creativity
• Risk-Taking
• Resiliency
• Collaboration
• Self-Advocacy
• All surrounding Rigorous and Relevant Academic Skills

The students recognized on May 11 were two of only 14 students statewide to present at TEDx Cherry Creek in March. Alexandra Hammond gave a presentation called, “Social Media: What’s Broken and How Gen Z is Fixing It.” Jack Haag gave a presentation called, “Do You Live in a Neighborhood of People or Cars?” These students’ presence, poise, and public speaking skills are truly exceptional.

Alexandra Hammond is a freshman beyond her years in terms of her desire to lead through example and be a meaningful voice for her peers. She is involved in numerous student-based committees at Heritage and also finds the time to be involved in multiple things outside of the school community. She has a tremendous ability to create a sense of belonging and trust with her peers. Alexandra is kind and passionate about making a difference in the world, and we need more people like her. She exemplifies many of the qualities in the Portrait of a Graduate, but especially Communication, Risk Taking, and Character.

Jack Haag has been described as a “great human” by his teachers. He is a stand-out student, and he has a passion for government and policy, which he demonstrates regularly in class participation. Jack is curious by nature; he tries really hard to get to know his peers and is always up for any small or large group discussion. Jack is a very kind person who sets the bar high in his classes. He has a contagious enthusiasm for learning. He projects confidence, ability, and talent. Jack truly exemplifies the Portrait of a Graduate characteristics of Collaboration, Character, and Communication.

Both of these students engage their peers and set a wonderful example of competence and passion for learning. They are an asset to their school community and to LPS as a whole. Congratulations on a job well done with your TEDx presentations, which are really a public acknowledgement and recognition of the dedication you put towards life. LPS is proud of you!