My-1043, Buck 92.3/AM830 WMMI, Bills Custom Fab, Soaring Eagle Waterpark & Hotel, ICCU, My-Michigan Podcasts.com & JNR Engraving along with the Gratiot Isabella Technical Education Center present the return of our Student of the Month!
Whenever students go above & beyond in and out of the classroom throughout the school year, teachers & administrators take notice and they nominate those to become Students of the month. Below, you vote on them (as often as you wish). At the end of each month, the student who receives the most votes will be awarded the prize package from our sponsors and local business supporters.
APRIL 2024 NOMINEES:
Isabel Walton – Mt. Pleasant
Nominating Teacher: Denise Arnold – CNA Program
Isabel Walton, a Mt. Pleasant High School student nominated by Denise Arnold. Isabel is a very hard-working student in the Certified Nurse Aide Program, always willing to be the first to perform the skills in the lab and while at the nursing home. Isabel uses her time wisely in the classroom and clinical setting and always strives to do her best. She has been involved with the Dance team for 4 years, a member of the National Technical Honor Society for the past 2 years, and a member of the National Honor Society for the past 2 years as well. Isabel is an active member on our Health Science club board being vice president. This year she received 1st place in the Health Science Club competition in Physical Therapy. Isabel is also the Student Coordinator for Student Senate at Mt Pleasant High School. On top of all her outside activities she is a very reliable, dependable, and hardworking student. When she graduates in May, she is planning to attend Central Michigan University to obtain her Bachelors in Neuroscience and then transferring to become an Emergency Room Physician.
Ann Gross – Beal City
Nominating Teacher: Andrea Langley- Graphic Arts
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend Ann Gross for any endeavor she may pursue. Having had the pleasure of working closely with Ann for 2 years, I can confidently attest to her outstanding character, unwavering dedication, and exceptional skills. Ann is a highly motivated individual who consistently goes above and beyond in all tasks she undertakes. Her proactive approach to problem-solving and her relentless pursuit of excellence make her a valuable asset in any team or project. Ann’s commitment to her work is truly commendable, and she never shies away from taking on new challenges. One of Ann’s most remarkable qualities is her ability to collaborate effectively within a team. She is a natural team player, always willing to lend a helping hand and support her colleagues. Ann’s positive attitude and strong communication skills foster a collaborative environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to perform their best. In addition to her excellent work ethic and teamwork skills, Ann possesses a remarkable talent for creative design. Her innovative ideas and keen eye for detail consistently result in visually stunning and impactful designs. Beyond her professional achievements, Ann is also an incredibly kind and compassionate individual. She is a motivated, team-oriented professional with exceptional creative design skills and a kind-hearted nature. Ann is a member of NTHS.
Jaci Canfield – Fulton
Nominating Teacher: Megan Williams – Interior Design
It is with great pleasure that I nominate Jaci for Student of the Month. Despite the considerable daily commute of 40 minutes to GI-TEC, Jaci’s dedication shines through as she consistently arrives early and demonstrates a remarkable commitment to her studies. While she may be one of the first to depart, her enthusiasm suggests she would willingly stay late if given the opportunity. Her inaugural year at GI-TEC has been nothing short of impressive, and I am delighted she chose to embark on this journey with us.
Throughout the initial two trimesters in Interior Design, Jaci exemplified outstanding work ethic, actively engaging in the classroom and immersing herself in the curriculum. As the focus shifted to practical applications on the job site, Jaci’s performance soared even higher. Whether tasked with painting a towering 14-foot ceiling from a precarious 10-foot ladder or tackling any other challenge, Jaci approaches each task with unwavering determination and a positive attitude. Her keen sense of responsibility and proactive approach have made her an invaluable asset on our job site, providing much-needed reassurance.
Jaci’s initiative and drive were further exemplified at a recent job fair where she confidently engaged an employer, ultimately securing a freelance design project to revamp an office space for a Gratiot County business. Her eagerness to take on this endeavor speaks volumes about her capabilities, and we eagerly anticipate the unveiling of her final project.
Beyond her academic achievements, Jaci embodies kindness and authenticity. Balancing her studies with participation in multiple sports and various school organizations at Fulton High School, she epitomizes the well-rounded student.
In summary, Jaci’s exceptional performance, coupled with her exemplary character, makes her a deserving candidate for Student of the Month. I am immensely proud of her accomplishments this year and eagerly anticipate witnessing her continued growth and success.
Robert Saunders – Mt. Pleasant
Nominating Techer: Kerry Lockwood – Accounting
Robert is a student who has taken my Accounting course twice in the last few years. Robert has a natural ability in the accounting area. In the classroom, he works hard to understand the concepts at a deeper level. Robert is currently working completely solo on his assignments. This curriculum is not easy and often times can be frustrating. Robert always tries to solve each problem on his own before seeking help. Recently, we went on a field trip where the students completed a business simulation. Robert’s questions and curiosity were very impressive. He helped his team to earn 1st place.
Robert stays very busy outside of the classroom. He is an active participant in the wrestling team. He is a great leader on the team as he is always looking out for his teammates and cheering them on. Robert is a very intelligent young man who is looked up to by many of his peers. Robert would be an excellent pick for Student of the Month. He is a very kind and caring individual.
MARCH 2024 Student of the Month:
MacCoy Hovey – Mt. Pleasant
Nominating Teacher: Amy Schell – Educational Careers
MacCoy is currently enrolled in Educational Careers, which is a class intended for students who are interested in working with our youth. He has shown outstanding leadership skills, is always willing to participate in discussions or activities and gives 100% in everything he does in the classroom. He is self-directed, he sees what needs to be done and completes it with high quality work. MacCoy is very kind, easy to work with and a great role model for his peers as well as the young students he interacts with daily. MacCoy can work with anyone and make them feel included and valued. He is also willing to jump in and help whenever needed. MacCoy is very deserving of the 104.3 GI-TEC Student of the Month, and we are very fortunate to have him as part of our Educational Careers program. While at his work experience at McGuire Elementary his host teacher and the teacher across the hall have both taken time to let me know how impressed they are with his ability to work with his elementary students. They have both seen skills that show beyond his years. In fact, one said that while he was running a small group in the hallway, they watched him not only encouraging the students, but still making sure he held them accountable. The teacher said these are skills that our college students often have a hard time mastering. I am very happy MacCoy is part of our amazing program, people like him make the classroom a better place!!
FEBRUARY 2024 Student of the Month:
Jillian Matyorauta – Mt. Pleasant
Nominating Teacher: Michelle Claybaugh – Marketing
Jillian is an exceptional student. I love how she is just who she is. She is not swayed by what other’s think or say. Jillian is just fun, positive, creative, skilled, and professional. She always volunteers to do work above and beyond classroom and School Store tasks. Jillian takes initiative and respectfully looks for ways to improve processes. She is honest, respectful, and kind to everyone. Jillian is currently involved in Varsity Tennis, the National Technical Honor Society, and Faith Weavers. She also volunteered for Christmas Outreach. She participates in Work Based Learning as an Assistant in the GI-TEC office. She recently recorded an advertisement for the School Store. When I had a group of counselors tour our room, Jillian didn’t hesitate to explain what she has learned in Marketing and what the class is all about. Jillian also works outside of school and has sometimes held three jobs, including her Co-Op position, at one time. She is an amazing young woman that has impressed me so much with her attitude, skills, and positive helpful personality. Jillian inspires me!
JANUARY 2024 Student of the Month:
DAISY GRAHAM – MT. PLEASANT
Andrea Langley – Graphics (Nominating Teacher)
Fun, positive, intelligent, supportive. That is how I would describe Daisy. She handles every issue, every confrontation, every problem with the same positive demeanor and is never afraid of adding a little humor to a situation. Daisy is an incredibly sweet person who always displays good manners in class. She brings a smile to her teachers every day! Daisy is considerate of others and works well with her peers. She respects herself and everyone she comes into contact with. She is truly a pleasure to have on the design team!! Daisy’s willingness to learn and her dedication to excellence in design have stood out amongst her peers. I believe that Daisy already demonstrates leadership skills and this will enable her to be successful in her professional Graphic Design career. Daisy Graham is a senior at Mt. Pleasant High School. As a second year lead student of the GI-TEC Graphics Program, Daisy works on many MPHS projects such as Homecoming, Snowball and Prom tickets, staff business cards, parking passes and club banners. As a GI-TEC student, Daisy has also created graphics projects for community businesses and non-profit organizations including AVU Registrations, Verlen Kruger Legacy and The Amateur Hockey Association of Mt. Pleasant. Daisy has placed multiple times at the state level at the MITES competition as a stellar designer. Daisy is the secretary of the CTE Club and volunteered this past summer at the GI-TEC Summer Camp. Daisy is also enrolled in the GI-TEC’s Education Program, and is enjoying the amazing opportunity to assist as a Cadet Teacher in her former Kindergarten teacher’s classroom at Pullen Elementary School. Outside of the classroom, Daisy works at Martin Ice Arena. Daisy has a heart to help others and volunteers her time for Gift of Life Michigan, the Chippewa River District Library, and Community Church of Mt. Pleasant. She is a member of Evergreen 4-H Club of Isabella County.
DECEMBER 2023 Student of the Month:
ISABEL GOODRICH – MT. PLEASANT
Mindy Wischmeyer -Business Management (Nominating Teacher)
Isabel has been a student in Business Management for four years. She is also a four-year active participant in Mt. Pleasant’s Student Senate. Isabel is the most delightful young lady who comes to class ready to tackle anything. She has a strong work ethic, very strong principles and is a hard worker. You will not find a student who will outwork Isabel. Isabel is a great role model for her peers as she participates in class in a very positive way. She is the first student to volunteer and gives 100% to every project and every opportunity. She has the unique ability to light up any room she walks into. Izzy has balanced a full load at school, many extracurricular activities such as swim and tennis all the while working two jobs. Izzy is a co-op in the Gratiot-Isabella Technical Education Center office and she also works at Doozies.
NOVEMBER 2023 Student of the Month:
LEXIE THAYER – ST. LOUIS
Amy Schell – Educational Careers (Nominating Teacher)
Lexie is an outstanding 2nd year Educational Careers student. Her goal is to pursue a teaching degree starting next Fall. She is very hardworking and a great role model for her peers and elementary students. Lexie worked in a 4th grade classroom last year and is currently working in a 2nd grade class as a cadet teacher this year. She has over 200 hours in the last two years in the classroom. She gives 100% to everything she does from creating engaging activities/lesson plans to decorating the classroom. She is a big part of the classroom and is always willing to help her classmates and elementary students be more successful.
I am very happy Lexie is part of our amazing program, people like her make the classroom a better place. She is warm, caring, helpful, easy to talk to and willing to work with anyone. She always has a smile on her face and welcomes the opportunity to help when asked. She will be an asset to any classroom in the future.
OCTOBER 2023 Student of the Month:
Eli Buccilli – Mt. Pleasant
Nominating Teacher: Aaron Kipfmiller- Drafting
Eli Buccilli, has proven to be an exceptional student in both architectural and mechanical drafting. He stands as a shining example of dedication and talent in the fields of engineering and design. What truly sets Eli apart is his remarkable ability to work independently with little or no direction from me, his teacher. He consistently exhibits a self-driven approach, tackling complex drafting projects with confidence and delivering impressive results. Notably, Eli’s exploration of 3D printing for architectural models showcases his innovative thinking and commitment to pushing the boundaries of what he is learning. He’s ingeniously integrated 3D printing into his projects, producing detailed and precise architectural models that have not only impressed me, but they have also inspired fellow students that are eager to follow in his footsteps. Eli’s consistent pursuit of excellence, self-directed initiative, and his willingness to go above and beyond in supporting his peers make him a deserving nominee for the Student of the Month award, embodying the spirit of achievement and collaboration in the world of architectural and mechanical design.
SEPTEMBER 2023 Student of the Month:
Isabella Valenzuela-Watson-Mt. Pleasant High School *(Nominating Teacher: Andrea Langley- Graphic Design)
I highly recommend Izzy because she has shown great potential and a passion for creativity. She has shown willingness to learn and her dedication to excellence in design have stood out amongst her peers. It has been my pleasure to have taught Izzy in three of my classes. Each time she earned an A in my class, which is well above the class average. In her sophomore year, she took on many client jobs on top of her course load. Her tireless work ethic was showcased through her knowledge of both design and machine operation by the end of the school year. Izzy helps run The Foster Closet of Isabella County, a non-profit organization to help kids in foster care get what they need for free for the past 5 years. She is on the varsity bowling team and the JV tennis team. In her free time, she likes to volunteer, participate in clubs, and work a part time job. She enjoys helping her peers and working with others. Izzy is part of the Interact Club and the CTE club. Her favorite part of graphic arts is the creativity, vinyl, and being able to have a class that has a family bond. Over the summer she helped with the GI-TEC summer camp.