February 2024

"Juwel joined our class mid year, but she jumped right in with us and was ready to take on kindergarten from her first day here at GCA! The positive attitude and caring spirit she has shown in just her first couple of months is to be admired! Juwel comes in each day ready to participate with her camera on, is ready and prepared with all of her needed materials beside her. We couldn't be more proud of Juwel and can't wait to see how far she goes from here. Her positivity and willingness to continue working, even when things are still new to her, is inspiring and much to be admired. She also has a charismatic smile that really brightens up our day! Juwel sparkles and shines in our class, and that is why I have nominated her as our student of the month. When Juwel first came to our class mid year, from another school she told Mrs.Gullikson and I that she felt overlooked at her old school. Juwel's mom went on to tell us that was why she felt the need to move Juwel somewhere else. I made it my mission to make sure that Juwel did not feel that way here at GCA. In only a couple of months here at GCA, Juwel now says she feels that she is part of a class which she enjoys! Juwel says she is happy here and she has teachers that understand what she needs. I am personally so happy that I have been able to help bring about a positive change in the life of such an incredible student!"

PGB Student of the Month Finalists

Alyssa F.

1st Grade

"I am so proud of Alyssa and how far she's come this year! Alyssa has completely come out of her shell, and is doing such a great job! She has made HUGE gains academically and socially. She always participates in class and is always on camera. She always has a positive attitude and is always willing to try. Alyssa's hard work is definitely paying off! Alyssa was a very shy and quiet student when she first started. She very much kept to herself and was struggling academically. To see how far she's come and overcome all with such a positive attitude is really inspiring. She's a completely different student and she's doing really BIG things!"

Daniel R.

2nd Grade

"Daniel is an advocate for his and his classmates' success. He congratulates, cheers on, and shows compassion to all of his peers. He perseveres in all circumstances. His effort is second to none, and he shows up to his classes daily with a positive Can-Do attitude. Supporting Daniel as one of his teachers is always fun. He loves to enjoy himself and truly has a love for learning. "

Elementary Grades 3-5 (EGB)

Symona M.

4th Grade

“Symona is always kind and respectful to both her peers and teacher. She works hard and is always striving to do better. She reaches out to me to check on her grades and ask for extra help. It reflects in her grades. She is an outstanding student and young lady. She is such a kind individual with so much passion and love for others. It is such a great joy to have her in my classes and allow her to set such a wonderful example for her peers.” -Ms. Harpis

“Symona is a great role model in class. Not only does she do all of her assignments, but she goes above and beyond. If she doesn't understand an assignment, she will always ask for clarification to make sure she is doing exactly what is expected of her. She likes to design outfits and is always eager to share her designs with the class. She also has a lovely voice and is happy to lead all the birthday songs in class. Symona loves to send positive messages in the chat and on mic. Symona is a daily reminder of how we should treat others by always showing kindness and respect! I just love her words of inspiration that she types in private chats to me!" -Ms. Ellis

EGB Student of the Month Finalists

Miya B.

3rd Grade

“Miyah is extremely kind, works hard, and is always a GCA Champ! Miyah goes out of her way to ensure that she has completed her assignments correctly. If a teacher or classmate is out, Miyah is the first to notice and check on them. Miyah is a ray of light to those around her. It is wonderful to see a student that is so caring and kind. Whenever a teacher is out for training, or in a breakout room, Miyah is the first one to notice and check on them. Miyah goes above and beyond to be a Champ at school!" -Ms. Walker & Ms. Cantrell

Lauren D.

5th Grade

"Lauren is the definition of a SOARing student and that virtual learning can be beneficial! She is on camera, on task, courteous and goes above and beyond in her classes! I am so glad she is a student of mine this year. Lauren is hardworking, KIND and caring to all of our new friends in Class who have started this month at GCA, and dedicated to her classes. She is always asking insightful questions to learn more. She enjoys showing her artwork to our class and encourages others to do the same. She is patient and studious. Lauren encourages other students to collaborate together and helps lead in class discussions during social studies. She exemplifies what it means here at GCA to SOAR!” -Ms. Nestor

“Lauren is an outstanding student. She is always on time and on camera for class. She is always positive and encouraging to other students. She works hard and was recently nominated to attend the in person Science Fair. Lauren's positivity everyday makes the classes she is in more joyful. She is always smiling and encouraging her peers." -Ms. Power

Middle Grades 6-8 (MGB)

Secondary Grades 9-12 (SGB)

January 2024

Primary Grades K-2 (PGB)

Xavier M.2nd Grade

Ms. Farless nominated Xavier and she writes, "Xavier has gone from not being sure of himself to a confident learner. He works hard and is persistent; willing to try even when learning is difficult or there are challenges His academic performance has changed in that he is eager to participate, help others and work on assignments. He now feels confident in his classes and is no longer afraid to ask for help. It has been a 180 experience." and "Xavier has helped me to think outside the box and bring fun back into teaching. Sometimes math and science just need that extra boost and because of him I have been able to find activities to get them excited about Math and wanting to learn. My kids are also excited to come to my classes more so than ever. He has truly helped me grow as a teacher."

PGB Student of the Month Finalists

Radley W.

1st Grade

Ms. McKenny nominated Radley and she writes, "Radley is diligent in every task that he is given. Even if the assignment is tough and he gets a little frustrated. Radley will give himself a little encouraging pep talk and complete the task. Even when I make a mistake he encourages me, saying, "It's alright Ms. McKenney." I absolutely love Radley's loving and caring personality. I wish that the world had more Radleys." and "Working with Radley brings me joy. It's a great pleasure chatting with Radley and learning all about his pets, and rock collection, as well learning about his engineering kits that he works on."

Tristian H.

Kindergarten

Ms. Lawson nominated Tristian and she writes, " Tristan joined our class later in the year, but he jumped right in willing and ready to take on kindergarten! The growth he has shown in three short months is tremendous and it is due to his persistence, determination, and hard work. He comes in each day ready to participate on his camera and is prepared with all of the needed materials. We couldn't be more proud of Tristan and can't wait to see how he grows even more this semester." and " Tristan's positivity and willingness to continue working through things, no matter how hard, is inspiring and much to be admired. He also has incredibly infectious smile that lights up our day. Tristan is a joy! "

Elementary Grades 3-5 (EGB)

RasMakonnen B.5th Grade

“RasMakonnen is an excellent student! He consistently turns in his work, he is always thorough with it and makes very good grades because he is so conscientious. He works hard and does his best on everything he does.

RasMakonnen is a good friend and classmate to others. He is always willing to help other students when they have issues with technology, or even questions about assignments.

RasMakonnen also participates in every single class and his camera is always on. He sets a great example for our class as a whole.

RasMakonnen is also a great leader. One day, I got kicked out of class and for some reason, the students were able to stay in class. When I got back to the classroom, he was reminding the class to wait for me to come back. Class made RasMakonnen a host (without me realizing) while I was gone. We started breaking into BORs and he was even helping me get students into their groups in the BORs. He's a huge help to me and others.” -Ms. Dana Wharam

EGB Student of the Month Finalists

Jeremy P.

3rd Grade

“Jeremy is an amazing student! He is respectful on mic, on camera, and in the chat at all times and is a dependable leader in the classroom. He is always ready to volunteer in class and help classmates sort through misunderstandings because he is prepared by consistently completing thorough, excellent work.

He also reviews his mistakes, asks questions for clarification, and works through misunderstandings publicly- for the good of the class while setting an awesome example for being responsible for his own learning.” -Ms. Hollis

Kidist F.

4th Grade

“Kadist is a great role model in class. She demonstrates the characteristics of a student who works hard with good academic performance in math, science and writing lab for me. She sends me kind messages in the chat every morning in each class.

Not only does she do all of her assignments, but she goes above and beyond. If she doesn't understand an assignment, she will always ask for clarification to make sure she is doing exactly what is expected of her. She is an amazing writer and loves to read her stories to the class.

Keep up the great work" -"Ms. Ali

Middle Grades 6-8 (MGB)

Secondary Grades 9-12 (SGB)

December

December 2023

Primary Grades K-2 (PGB)

Ajeta A.Kindergarten

Ajeta soars here at GCA in so many different ways, but what's most important is her attitude that she brings to the classroom. She is punctual, hard-working, and supportive of her classmates every day; often giving her own personal round-of-applauses for them when they are on the microphone, and leaving encouraging comments in the chat box. Ajeta is truly an outstanding student that deserves to be recognized! :)

Ajeta helps Mr. Stephan and I constantly by making our class a positive environment where students want to come to class to learn and have fun! I have also been amazed at her wonderful artwork that she creates, I can tell that it has inspired other students around her, because it inspires me too! I want to make a shoutout to Ajeta's LC as well, thank you for all that you do! :)

PGB Student of the Month Finalists

Emily B.

1st Grade

Emily recently moved to the United States with very little knowledge of the English language. Since day one, she has worked hard and goes above and beyond on her assignments. At first, Emily was hesitant to participate in class, but she has slowly opened up and has gotten more comfortable and will often volunteer to participate. Emily is respectful and always puts forth much effort with a smile on her face. Emily stated that one of her goals this year is to learn to speak English better and I have seen her working diligently to accomplish this goal. I am so proud of Emily's persistence and positive attitude so far this school year!

Emily has shown me first hand that anything can be accomplished as long as you have a positive mindset, tell yourself that you can do it, and work hard. She is the perfect example of this!

Addi W.

2nd Grade

Addie is an amazing student who loves to learn. Addie doesn't let anything stop her from being her true self and she adds so much substance and excitement to each class. I love that Addie has true perseverance and fortitude. She makes me proud every day!

Supporting Addie in her learning has personally impacted me because I realize every day that my attitude and my countenance easily influences my students. Addies joy rubs off on me constantly and reminds me to choose joy daily.

Elementary Grades 3-5 (EGB)

Genesis R.4th Grade

Genesis is a great role model in class. Not only does she do all of her assignments, but she goes above and beyond. If she doesn't understand an assignment, she will always ask for clarification to make sure she is doing exactly what is expected of her. She is an amazing writer and loves to read her stories to the class in Writing Lab and ELA. Genesis is always thinking of others and you can tell by her kind messages in the chat or an email telling me to enjoy my break. She reminds daily about the importance of spreading kindness! Keep up the great work, Genesis!

EGB Student of the Month Finalists

Lilly C.

3rd Grade

Lily has amazing grades, she works super hard and sometimes too hard on things to make them perfect! She is so sweet and encouraging to the class, she interacts with them in such a kind way. She is honest and compassionate to everyone around her, and tries to help where she can. She follows all the rules, raising her hand to participate (which she does a lot of), being on camera and on task! She works hard and attends every session she is able. She is a bright light in the class that I love to see and reminds me I can be that as well.

Jael-Levi W.

5th Grade

Jael-Levi demonstrates the characteristics of a student who works hard with good academic performance in math, science and writing lab for me. He is a dedicated and hard-working student who is always on good behavior. He follows the rules, respects his peers and puts forth great effort into his assignments. He is always on camera and ready to learn. Jael-Levi has excellent attendance and participates often in class, is well-mannered, polite, and helpful to me, his teacher and his peers. He demonstrates qualities which show great community citizenship and a team player. Supporting Jael-Levi has impacted me as his teacher whereby I am impressed with how good of a student he truly is. His hard work and dedication to class creates a learning environment that is engaging and motivating, when I see a student who cares about learning and being a part of the classroom community as much as he does. It is quite refreshing to have a student show up every day ready to learn and engaged as much as Jael-Levi does. It is what I as a student led educator looks for in my students.

Middle Grades 6-8 (MGB)

Ubaid S.Math

"Ubaid is such a joy to have in Class! He is always participating, thinking outside of the box, and sharing his ways of thinking with the class! He is not afraid to speak up! Thanks, Ubaid!"

-Ms. Thompson

MGB Student of the Month Finalists

Alexander V.

English/Language Arts

"Alex is an outstanding student! His engagement is top tier and he is an asset to the classroom. In addition to his participation in class, he encourages others to get involved and has a love for reading and writing! The students even told Alex that his voice is soothing and should be on an audiobook! Alex is truly a GCA Champion and we are so grateful to have him in our class!"

-Ms. Garnett

McKinley O.

Social Studies

"McKinley is a shining example of a 7th grade student!! She sets a high example of positive class engagement and participation. A joy to teach!"

-Ms. Paschal

Christina L-F.

Science

"Christian is in my homeroom and 4th period science. He sets a strong example of S.O.A.R. behavior by always volunteering to read for the class, raising his hand to speak, and being on camera. Christian also asks amazing questions that often lead to academic discussion. His outstanding work ethic showed in his science fair project, which was the best of all of my classes. Christian sets the bar high for other students and is a joy to have in my class."

-Ms. Lynch

Patrick D.

Electives

"He has a great attitude and always smiling."

-Mr. Mayben

Secondary Grades 9-12 (SGB)

November

November 2023

Primary Grades K-2 (PGB)

Radley W.1st Grade

Radley is always one of the first students to show up everyday in classes. I don't recall a single day that he hasn't shown the brightest smile and welcomed me and his classmates with a "Good Morning" or "Good Afternoon" greeting. He has one of the best personalities - honest, respectful, responsible, compassionate, well-mannered, hard-working, and funny. All of his classmates adore him! If anyone wants to see an example of a SOARing student, Radley is the kid that needs to be seen. When things get difficult or challenging for him, he is persistent to overcome the challenge - at all costs. There have been several instances where I have witnessed Radley in a small group being the one to lead by example. He made sure that students stayed on task during independent time and was first to help when a student was unsure of what to do. The first time I met Radley, I knew we were going to have a great time together. I am amazed at how much growth Radley has shown already this year academically and socially. I can't wait to see everything else he accomplishes!"" Teaching Radley this year has been such a blessing. His big, bright smile has kept me positive and grounded if I was having a stressful day. One thing that truly amazes me about Radley is his caring heart. He notices if his classmates seem sad, and he is not afraid to reach out to them with his contagious grin and encouraging words. Through his academic achievements and his joyful personality, Radley has reminded me of why I became a teacher in the first place - to witness the desires and joys of students as they learn all the things the world has to offer.

PGB Student of the Month Finalists

Sadie V.

Kindergarten

Sadie makes Champion choices in every single class. She works hard to finish all assignments, participates in class, and shares kind words with her friends. She never gives up when we work on something new and tricky, and she always wants to do the right thing! Sadie loves science, and when she grew a giant bean plant, she shared updates with her friends each day so we could watch it grow. Sadie's smile brightens up our classroom! She is sweet and caring, and she shows good character in everything she does. We are so happy to have her in our class.

Faith D.

2nd Grade

Faith attends class regularly and is always on camera. She is on task and participates during each class session. She works hard and completes any task given to her. She is responsible in the chat and on mic when participating. She is a great example of a SOARing CHAMPION! Supporting Faith has impacted me by making me want to be the best teacher I can for her. She comes to class each day with a smile and works hard; therefore, inspiring me to do the same! I am so thankful she is my student and inspires me to SOAR each and every day!

Elementary Grades 3-5 (EGB)

Liam G.5th Grade

Liam is a class leader. He always participates with an enthusiasm for learning. He takes his interests in cars and hot wheels and always finds a way to connect to what we are working on, particularly in our economics unit. He helps others in class during partner and group work and is always eager to learn with others. He is on time to every class and always has a kind and positive attitude with me and his peers.

He reminds me daily of the joy of learning. He approaches each lesson with curiosity and makes real world connections. Even when he is finished learning the skill/standard for the day, he is always ready to enrich his learning. He has made teaching a joy.~Ms. Blackwell

EGB Student of the Month Finalists

Asher V.

3rd Grade

Asher consistently exceeds expectations in live class and in classwork. He completes excellent work thoroughly and on time. He is also always ready to participate in class whether volunteering to read, answering in the chat or with emojis, or offering an alternative explanation on mic to help his classmates reach a better understanding.

Asher's enthusiasm for learning and helping his classmates learn just makes me a proud and happy teacher!~Ms. Hollis

Iyla C.

4th Grade

Iyla is a great student in class. She has great attendance, volunteers to answer questions in class, will kindly take the lead in a BOR to facilitate conversations in Math and Science. Iyla is also one of the kindest students I have met. If another student volunteers to answer a question and Iyla just answered one, she will relinquish the opportunity to speak in order to give her classmate an opportunity instead.

It is very delightful to have a student in class that wants to learn and does all that they do in kindness.~Ms. Stevens

Middle Grades 6-8 (MGB)

Secondary Grades 9-12 (SGB)

October

October 2023

Primary Grades K-2 (PGB)

Evelyn A.1st Grade

Evelyn is a true example of a model student. She always tries her best and works hard. Evelyn always participates in class by having her camera on and responding to questions using the chat, reactions, and her whiteboard. Evelyn displays perseverance in all she does. When something is hard, she doesn't give up, but keeps trying until she is successful. She turns in all of her assignments on time, and completes them to the best of her ability. During our student-led conference, Evelyn told me that a goal she had for this school year was to become a better reader. I can see how hard she is working on this with her weekly practice in Learning A-Z, Teach Your Monster to Read, and Lalilo. Evelyn always has a smile on her face no matter what.

Evelyn inspires and motivates me as a teacher each and every day. Being a teacher can be tough at times, but Evelyn motivates me with the effort she puts into learning. Seeing her progress and perseverance reminds me that what I do makes a difference.

PGB Student of the Month Finalists

Miracle R.

Kindergarten

Miracle works very hard in class, and it is hard to get her down! We started the school year off a little rocky with the new platform, but Miracle always had the sweetest attitude and was always ready to jump on the microphone. She didn't let technical problems dull her sparkle. She is kind to her teachers as well as her classmates, persevering, and always attentive when called on. I love having her in our class!

Miracle's awesome attitude encouraged me to have the same attitude no matter what difficulties may come. She is inspiring and can do anything she puts her mind to as long as she doesn't give up. That inspired me to be the same way!

Miracle is eager to participate in class shows kindness to her classmates. She has worked so hard this year. I am proud of you Miracle.

I look forward to saying good morning to Miracle everyday. She always has a smile an positive attitude to share with our class. Keep up the great work Miracle.

Mariely M.

2nd Grade

Mariely is always showing her champion behaviors. She comes to class prepared to learn. She is always involved in class. She asks questions when she doesn't understand something, and this sets a great example for her classmates. She has not been asked to do this, but she keeps her small groups on task and focused. She is a joy each and every class.

This student pushes me to find ways for all ESOL students to get the best out of each and every class. She is always helping me to think differently, and this improves my teaching effectiveness. She has so much positivity and it spreads to all her classmates. She just brightens my day each session.

Elementary Grades 3-5 (EGB)

Jaydan L.5th Grade

Both of Jayden's teachers, Mrs. Christensen & Mrs. Breitbarth nominated Jaydan for the 5th Grade Student of the Month. They've shared that he Jaydan is a great contributor in class. He is engaged, on camera and shares his scientific thinking as well as explain what strategy he used in math class to solve a particular problem. Jaydan has been a model student to his classmates this month. He is always excited to learn new things! He is respectful to his classmates and teacher. He loves to volunteer in class to answer discussion questions or to help others. He is an all around amazing GCA Champ student!

EGB Student of the Month Finalists

Bryson W.

3rd Grade

Bryson was nominated by his teacher Mrs. Walker. She shares that he is a hard working student that goes above & beyond in class and outside of class. Bryson strives to complete all tasks to the best of his ability. Bryson completes task when they are given, always much earlier than the due date. Bryson participates in class discussion. Even when others are celebrated, Bryson will clap in a circle to give them a round of applause. It is wonderful to see him always supporting his GCA family. Bryson has impressed me with his determination and kindness towards others. It has truly made my heart happy to see how much he cares about being a life long learner and supporting others to do so as well.

Aiyana S.

4th Grade

Aiyana was nominated by her teacher Mr. Hartfiled. He states that she is always on time for class. She gives full attention to the lessons and ask questions when needed. Aiyana volunteers to read when needed. She helps other students in small groups. Aiyana is very respectful to the teacher and her peers. When I meet students like Aiyana it gives me great hope for the future. Her kindness and respect make teaching fun.

Middle Grades 6-8 (MGB)

Secondary Grades 9-12 (SGB)

September

September 2023

Primary Grades K-2 (PGB)

Donah "DJ" W.Kindergarten

DJ is an incredibly hard worker and a very attentive student. He comes to class and makes Champion choices every day! When something is hard, he puts in effort and never gives up. He is encouraging and kind to his classmates, and he goes above and beyond on everything he is asked to do. He even wrote a book to share with his classmates! DJ will be successful at everything he does, because he always tries his best.

DJ doesn't give up just because something is hard, and he is always asking questions so that he can learn new things and get better every day. Learning how to use the new Class software and implementing new curriculum programs has been challenging this year, but DJ inspires us to keep pushing and learning! He is learning to do hard things and so are we. We will do our best and never give up. Thank you DJ! ❤️

PGB Student of the Month Finalists

Scarlett C.

1st Grade

Scarlet works very hard in class. She always has a great attitude and is the first to raise her hand and volunteer to read or answer a question in class. She also loves sharing affirmations and "filling everyone's bucket."

Nalani J.

2nd Grade

Nalani is always prepared for class with a smile! She actively participates and encourages her peers.

I love this family!! Over the last two years, I have met and interacted with, not only Nalani, but her sisters as well as speaking with her mother. This is a great family with kind and polite children. They make teaching so much fun!

Elementary Grades 3-5 (EGB)

Emma H.5th Grade

Emma's teacher, Mrs. Cook, says that Emma is on top of everything in the classroom! She has compassion, optimism, respect, and shows responsibility at all times. She is always ready and very respectful in class. Even when she comes back to class, I can call on her and she is happy to help with answers! She loves interacting with others and participating in the games with friendly competition, & always attends classes, even attended the mandatory ELD day!

EGB Student of the Month Finalists

Michelle A.

3rd Grade

Michelle's teacher, Mrs. Spry, says that Michelle has the most amazing science questions! She always participates during class and is on task during work time. She is on time and does not step away during class. She is helpful when others have a question and is a great leader during group work.

Ella P.

4th Grade

Ella's teacher, Mrs. Lime, says that Ella is a very hard working student. We're just 3 weeks in and she is consistently getting all her work done and always participates in class. She asks questions and likes to read for the class along with sharing examples she creates to help her friends better understand. Ella is also kind to her friends and always shares a nice reaction when her friends answer questions or read for the class. Ella is wonderful to have in class and her desire to come on camera and always talk on mic has influenced her peers to do the same!

Middle Grades 6-8 (MGB)

Secondary Grades 9-12 (SGB)

August

August 2023

Primary Grades K-2 (PGB)

Elementary Grades 3-5 (EGB)

Juan "JJ" B.5th Grade

JJ's teachers, Mrs. Eichele, & Mrs. Aumsbaugh, say: JJ has awesome attendance. He has great participation. He adds to the discussion. He completes his class work. He is positive. He shares jokes and stories. We have two new students in the class. JJ volunteers to show them Gallopade, and offer any other help they need. JJ brings a smile to my face when he shares his daily jokes or offers to help. I enjoy having him contribute to class because he demonstrates respect and understanding for the classroom expectations.

EGB Student of the Month Finalists

Jermon T.

3rd Grade

Jermon's teacher, Mrs. Mishkin, says: Jermon consistently begins each day promptly and actively participates in HR, math, science, and writing classes. He diligently completes his assignments & he treats his peers respectfully and goes above and beyond to support those struggling with technology. From a student's perspective, he effectively shares strategies for navigating CLASS. I find a reflection of my own student experience in Jermon's approach in our classroom. When Jermon shares his thoughts, his unique perspective emerges, making connections that hadn't occurred to me. This dynamic enriches the learning environment for all students and educators. I find myself learning from him on a daily basis!

Zavion W.

4th Grade

Zavion's teacher, Mrs. Kolassa, says: Zavion always comes to class with a smile and the BEST attitude. He volunteers to read in class and answers when questions are asked. When he does speak up in class, he always makes everyone laugh and smile with his positive attitude and hilarious words. He has encouraged others to be brave enough to speak on mic or read aloud in class. When others hear him, they get more excited and encouraged in class. I have personally enjoyed the class participation he inspires in Art Class.

23-24 Students of the Month