Mrs. Pickens (pictured above) had the following to say regarding Kayden's nomination,
"I've had the privilege of having Kayden in AP Calculus this year, and I've really seen him grow as a student and person. Kayden works hard to understand the material, and he helps others to understand. He pushes others around him to be the best they can be by being the best he can be. Kayden is a joy to have in class. His enthusiasm is infectious.
Kayden is a difference maker. He's so competitive and wants to win, but he isn't selfish. He knows that to win the whole team must be strong. His desire to win elevates the whole team because he tries to make everyone around him stronger. This year on the Math Team, he wasn't the top point scorer, but he was on two teams that won at Regionals and advanced to State. At State this month, he helped the Precalculus Team to place third, and he and his partner took first place to become the State Champions in the Oral Team competition. Kayden is also a three sport athlete, and he is balancing a job. In summary, Kayden has been working hard in class, on the Math Team, and in sports to make our students and school better. He is one of our best, and I am proud to nominate him for Student of the Month."
The PBL High School Student of the Month award recognizes students who demonstrate a strong combination of academic excellence and leadership.
To be nominated, a student must meet the following four criteria:
Reliability: Maintain excellent attendance and punctuality.
Engagement: Show a positive attitude, intellectual curiosity, and a strong work ethic in class.
Role Model: Be a positive influence on peers through actions, words, and dedication.
Leadership: Exhibit initiative and leadership, whether through a formal role (like club president) or informally by guiding projects and helping classmates.
In short, the award honors a student who is an engaged, reliable, and positive leader both in and out of the classroom. Teachers nominate students each month, with the winner receiving $50 and the other nominees receiving a $5 gift certificate from Just Hamburgers.
The other nominees included Addyson Kinnaird, Adrianna Mulllett, and Grace Hughes!
Pictured: Ariel Denault, Kayden Vance, Addyson Kinnaird and Grace Hughes (not in the picture: Adrianna Mullett)