by Anna Kate Terry, Tenley Roberts, Kira Flynn, and Kaylee Fine
A Shining Star is a student that stands out. The ten students that were chosen by peers have been given these superlatives because they exemplify the STAR way, being superlative, thoughtful, altruistic, and respectful. We have interviewed two students who have received the ‘Shining Star’ award. Our Ms. Shining STAR, Clara Amburn, is an academic superstar.
She explains that “I just know I’m a good person, and I’m glad everyone feels the same.” She emphasized how being a good person and making sure to include everyone helped lead her to this award.
On a similar note, Mr. Shining STAR, AJ Oropeza, talked to us about how this award makes him feel cared for, with the thought that his peers voted him for this award. He added, “I try to hang out with my friends... and try to help people.” AJ feels like getting out there and expressing himself were key factors in being nominated for this award.
To sum up, these two students provide us with a prime example of what we expect star students to act like. With their outreach to other students, and manners to outshine their peers, it is clear Clara and AJ were the right candidates for the ‘Shining STAR’ superlative.