April’s outstanding students recognized,
Tuolumne County schools have announced Students of the Month for April:
Addeline Lutge, first grade, Belleview Elementary — Despite the challenges that this year has presented, Addeline has arrived every day with a smile on her face. She has a very ‘go with the flow attitude,’ which has been so important this year. Addeline is a hard worker and takes pride in her work. She pays careful attention to detail when completing assignments to be sure she has done her very best work. During independent work time, I can always count on Addeline to work with integrity. We have spent a lot of time exploring different strategies for solving problems in math this year. One thing that I really appreciate about Addeline is that she is willing to try new strategies before she settles on the one that works best for her. Addeline is a respectful member of the classroom and school community. She is a dependable helper in the classroom and gets along well with others. She is organized and always on task and ready to learn. During our recent Jump Rope Challenge, I observed her determination as she worked to master different skills. This type of perseverance, along with her own desire to succeed, will continue to serve her well.” Addeline is the daughter of Marquis and Julia Lutge, of Sonora.
Colton Parsons, sixth grade, Chinese Camp Science Academy — “Colton Parsons is the real deal when it comes to finding someone who displays many of the character traits of the American cowboy,” said teacher Sheri Betz. “According to the Livermore Rodeo Association, true American cowboys exhibit ‘inner strength, determination, camaraderie, and respect.’ I have come across these strengths on numerous occasions. His inner strength has been displayed during this strange time with COVID as his work ethic never wavered even when he had to be taught online. He has been dedicated to learning, showing up on time for every class and/or special tutoring session. No matter the level of difficulty, Colton is not the kind of person to shut down when it gets tough. He will often take the initiative by asking questions until he gains an understanding. One example of respect happened during our visits to Avalon Care Center during the 19/20 school year. He befriended an elder named Lilian, connecting with her from the get go due their shared passion for cattle. After this initial visit with Lilian, he continued to make his craft projects for her during the year of monthly visits. Lastly, his friends have always enjoyed his banter with him. His jokes and teasing provide levity to the classroom atmosphere. I am proud of Colton and look forward to hearing about his future adventures. Happy Trails to You Cowboy Colton!” Colton is the son of Michele Morgan, of Sonora.
Juliet Lopez, third grade, Columbia Elementary — “Juliet arrives at school each day pleasant and ready to learn,” said teacher Dee Lucas. “She displays great enthusiasm and initiative in the classroom and always goes above and beyond. Juliet is also always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone.” Juliet is the daughter of Dan-joe and Maria Lopez, of Sonora.
Estrella Holmes-torres, eighth grade, Connections Visual and Performing Arts Academy — Estrella, the daughter of Carlos and Jen Torres, of Soulsbyville, “works hard in her classes and is cheerful and friendly to all,” wrote school staff. “Her teachers had the following to say about her: Estrella is a smart and creative young lady and her movie shorts are fun and entertaining. She really shines onstage and creates wonderful and interesting characters. She is outgoing and fun to be around. Estrella is the STAR in mathematics; very much a pleasure to have in class. Estrella works hard, is politie, and has a gentle disposition. Bravo! Estrella is cheerful and friendly to all. Her smile always helps to brighten my mornings.”
Ryan Moore, 12th grade, Connections Visual and Performing Arts Academy — “Academically he has been stellar, maintaining an impressive 4.2 GPA,” wrote school staff. “Athletically he has been a great asset to the soccer team. His teachers have the following to say about him: Mr. Patey — ‘good sense of humor, engagement, and valuable contributor to class discussions! Ryan is an academic and athletic star.’ Mr. Suggs — ‘Ryan Moore has a great attitude and is an excellent student.’ Senora Banks — ‘Ryan is an outstanding student, and an amazing human person. He is original in his thinking and a huge asset to the school,’ We wish Ryan the best as he heads off to UC Davis.” Ryan is the son of Murray and Robyn Moore, of Twain Harte.
Maria Lomeli, seventh grade, Curtis Creek Elementary — “Maria is a quiet girl who may easily go unnoticed, but her teachers do notice her,” said her teachers. “They notice her kindness, willingness to work hard, and the way she always treats others with kindness. She does her best in class and always has her work done on time. Maria is honest and responsible and is a pleasure to have in class.” Maria is the daughter of Luis and Alisha Lomeli, of Sonora.
Ben Mikita, 11th grade, Gold Rush Charter — Ben, the son of Mary Salisbury and Long Mikita, of Sonora, “was new to independent study this year and transitioned seamlessly into the IS world,” said teacher Alison Schult. “He continues to maintain academic excellence and attends his weekly scheduled meetings. He also never forgets to complete his homework and is not afraid to ask questions when additional clarification is needed. Additionally, he communicates well in writing and checks his email regularly. Ben always has a positive attitude and is a pleasure to know.”
Jaslyn Mcculloch, sixth grade, Hickman Charter — “Jaslyn’s positive attitude, kind heart, and hard work ethic make her a stand out student at our school,” said teacher April Zenger. “She excels in all areas of her academics. Her desire to always go above and beyond the expectations shines through in everything she does. Her enthusiasm and joy are contagious, in and out of the classroom. Jaslyn’s favorite subjects are math and reading. In her free time, Jaslyn loves to be creative with making crafts, enjoys riding her dirt bike, and spending time with her family. It has been an honor to watch her grow and thrive during her many years at Hickman.
We are so proud of her accomplishments and are grateful to have Jaslyn, as a student, at our school.” Jaslyn is the daughter of Jason and Merenda McCulloch, of La Grange.
Elyssa Morris, seventh grade, Jamestown Elementary — Elyssa, the daughter of Cynthia Luquin, of Jamestown, “has risen to her potential this year and is always hard-working and willing to help with a smile on her face,” said teacher Michelle Bennett.
Oliver Callahan, second grade, Mother Lode Christian — “Oliver has shown a tremendous amount of academic, personal, and spiritual growth this year,” said teacher Brian Siemonsma. “He pursues excellence in all subjects, and he is an example to his peers. His hard work and positive attitude has blessed everyone around him this year.” Oliver is the son of Mike and Kali Callahan, of Sonora.
Gregory Crook, 12th grade, Sonora High — “Gregory Crook is an exceptional student and leader.,” said counselor Stacy Kroeze. “His strength is effectively connecting with people of all ages. He has been a four-year member of Sonora High School’s Golden Regiment Band, FFA, and trap club. Greg’s leadership and commitment to service has strengthened all of the programs that he has participated in. Greg will complete his four-year agricultural pathway at Sonora High and continue his studies in forestry at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in the fall.” Gregory is the son of Shaun and Velina Crook, of Sonora.
Abigail Schulz, second grade, Soulsbyville Elementary — “Abby is a super student who works very hard in school,” said teacher Noelle Taylor. “She is a kind friend and helper to everyone. Abby always puts forth her best effort and goes above and beyond the expectations given to her. I love having her in my class. She is always respectful, responsible, and safe.” Abigail is the daughter of Steve and Emily Schulz, of Tuolumne.
Bude Foerstner, eighth grade, Summerville Elementary — Bude, the son of Georgia Foerstner and Alphonso Martinez, “has been attending Summerville Elementary School since kindergarten,” said Assistant Principal Charlene Brown. “Living in downtown Tuolumne, Bude has spent the last nine years developing characteristics of grit and commitment. Ever loyal and willing to lend a hand, Bude is the type of student that exemplifies Summerville honor. He is kind and considerate. He is accepting of all classmates and peoples. He works to the best of his abilities at all times and is willing to help others. Mr. Foerstner never complains about others or the work at hand. He is truly a person of Blue and Gold.”
Audrie Hancock, 12th grade, Summerville High — Audrie, the daughter of Jason and Karrie Penrose, of Tuolumne, “is a top student at Summerville High,” wrote Deputy Principal Stephen Sweitzer. “She has worked hard and done exceptionally well. Along with maintaining a 4.0 and superb citizenship, Audrie has participated in our cheer program and been a helpful assistant in the school office. Audrie’s teachers shared a few things about her: ‘Audrie is such a great student. She is always diligent in her work and helps others when they need help. She is every teacher’s dream student. Audrie has shown throughout the year the type of character traits necessary to be successful in college and life: cheerful persistence. Audrie represents the best of Summerville, with her ability to be engaged and involved both inside and outside the classroom. She sets high expectations for herself and reaches those goals.’ ”
Tegan Sorsdahl, seventh grade, Tenaya Elementary — Tegan, the daughter of Britney and Matt Barsotti, of Groveland, and Ryan Sorsdahl, of Anchorage, Alaska, “is a student of utmost integrity,” said teacher Trudi Griffin. “She is kind, patient and hard-working. Tegan perseveres in all tasks both academic and extra-curricular. She is a positive role model for people of all ages. We are proud to have her represent our school.”
Liam Mills, 11th grade, Theodore Bird High — Liam, the son of Lori and Robert Mills, of Jamestown, “is a great student who does excellent work in every course,” said teacher/coordinator Jeff Hansten. “Because of his hard work, he will graduate high school ahead of schedule. Liam has maintained a 4.0 G.P.A. all school year, and he works part-time raising livestock. He enjoys working on classic cars and plans to enroll in the Automotive Technology program at Columbia College next year. Liam has been active in 4-H for 10 years, and is working toward becoming an Eagle Scout rank in the Boy Scouts. Liam is a very busy young man! He is a fun and impressive person, and I am certain Liam has a very bright future.”
Justin Holt, 12th grade, Tioga High — Justin
“is an exceptional individual who we at Tioga are proud to have seen mature into a hard-working, responsible and enormously talented young man,” wrote school staff. “Justin is gifted at engineering and displays a stunning breadth of understanding on how things actually work. He has a wide-ranging interest in a variety of subjects, and his natural curiosity and insight make him a real asset to have in all his classes. Justin plans to follow his passion for cars attending San Joaquin Delta Community College next year, where he will study to become a master mechanic — a start to what will surely be a very successful career.” Justin is the son of Angela and William Holt, of Groveland.
Clayton Edwards, 12th grade, Tuolumne County Schools Office — Clayton, the son of Angeliek Ramsey-edwards and Thomas Edwards, of Tuolumne, “is an exceptional student and young man,” said teacher Jessica Paulat. “His nomination was unanimous. Clayton puts so much of himself into everything he does; at home, at school, and at work. He has such a positive attitude, and he is very thoughtful toward his peers and classroom staff. He is always willing to lend a helping hand, too. Clayton has had to overcome a lot of obstacles this past year, but he continues to show up, be present, and work hard with his amazingly bright spirit. He continues to grow and better himself, and there is no end to what he can accomplish. In our minds, it is hard to come up with anyone that deserves this nomination more.”
Norah Anderson, first grade, Twain Harte Elementary — Norah, the daughter of Garbriel and Katherine Anderson, of Twain Harte, “comes to school with a happy heart, she says hello to her friends, then gets to work,” said teacher Karen Stapp. “If one of her classmates needs help, she enjoys being able to help them. She anticipates what is expected of her in her school work and strives to her best. She is an excellent reader, thoughtful writer, and a math master. Norah is a pleasure to have in class.”