In the Spring of 2019, the London City School District published its Portrait of a Graduate, which highlights the key skills and attitudes necessary for district graduates to have success in college and careers. Our district uses the Portrait of a Graduate to help design meaningful teaching and learning experiences for our students.
The following students were recognized during the February Regular Board of Education meeting for substantially demonstrating the district’s Portrait of a Graduate. Congratulations to each of these students!
Olive Pickett (5th Grade) - London Elementary School
Olive is a 5th-grade student at London Elementary who epitomizes the essence of a Portrait of a Graduate. With curiosity and a genuine love for learning, Olive approaches each day with enthusiasm and a growth mindset. She embodies the core values of critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, consistently seeking out opportunities to explore new ideas and perspectives. Olive is not only academically engaged but also great at socially fostering a positive and inclusive environment within her classroom. Whether she's leading a group project or participating in classroom discussions, Olive demonstrates excellent communication skills and a willingness to embrace challenges. Her resilience and adaptability shine through, reflecting a commitment to lifelong learning and a readiness to face the complexities of the future with confidence. Olive's journey at London Elementary serves as an inspiration to her peers and a testament to the school's dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared for the ever-evolving landscape of the world beyond the classroom. Mrs. Thompson, the STEM and gifted teacher at LES, shared that “Olive is one of a kind! She is thoughtful, kind, helpful, and incredibly artistic. She is a creative thinker and uses those skills to think outside the box. She is a natural leader who inspires those around her!
Mrs. Feliz the LES art teacher had nothing but positive remarks about Olive, "I've only had the privilege of knowing and teaching Olive since August, but she was one of the first students I met at Open House and she left an impression so big I knew I'd never forget her name. Her smile, creativity, hard work, and commitment to always doing the right thing are apparent, no matter whether she is in art class, walking through the halls, or helping to collect her sisters after school. She thrives on being challenged to push herself into new and exciting things and I've already seen her excel in incredible ways. I can't wait to see what else Olive achieves as she grows as a London City student!"
Anna Sims (8th) - London Middle School
Anna Sims embodies the qualities of a critical and creative thinker and a problem-solver. Throughout her academic journey, she has consistently demonstrated her ability to approach challenges with analytical thinking and innovative solutions. Her participation in honors classes, such as Honors ELA, algebra, and geometry, high school art, and high school PE, showcases her intellectual curiosity and willingness to tackle rigorous coursework.
Furthermore, Anna is an effective communicator. Her engagement in extracurricular activities, particularly as a volleyball player and basketball player, demonstrates her athleticism and her ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with teammates to achieve common goals. Anna's leadership on her volleyball teams, in which her school team brought home two CBC championships, and her club team, in the last 3 years, has finished in the top 4 teams in the Ohio Valley Region, reflects her capacity to inspire and motivate others through her actions.
In addition to her academic and extracurricular achievements, Anna is appropriately skilled in literacy, numeracy, and technology. She has consistently excelled academically, maintaining merit honor roll distinctions since the 6th grade. Anna won the Peace Poster contest for Lion’s Club for London Middle School in 7th grade. Anna's proficiency in various subjects and her fluency in technology positions her as a well-rounded and future-ready individual equipped to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Anna's demeanor is also worth noting. Despite her many accomplishments, she remains humble, soft-spoken, and respectful to others. Her courteous disposition and ability to collaborate with peers and faculty contribute to a positive school culture.
Furthermore, Anna demonstrates flexibility and adaptability, essential traits in today's ever-changing world. She embraces new challenges with enthusiasm and grace, continuously seeking opportunities for growth and learning.
In conclusion, Anna Sims is a shining example of the caliber of students we strive to nurture in our district. Her exemplary academic record, leadership in extracurricular activities, effective communication skills, and respectful demeanor make her a model student and an asset to our school community.
Derek Hundley (12th) - London Unlimited
Derek Hundley is a senior student and a living embodiment of the attributes that define the Portrait of a Graduate. Derek's academic journey took a turn during his sophomore year when he contemplated dropping out. The discovery of the London Unlimited program became his lifeline, providing him a way to showcase attributes such as Effective Communication, Critical and Creative Thinking, Problem-Solving, Respect for Self and Others, Flexibility, Adaptability, and proficiency in Literacy, Numeracy, and Technology.
Derek's commitment, combined with his proficiency in key areas, paved the way for early graduation, making him not just a graduate but a testament to the transformative power of unconventional paths and comprehensive skill development. London Unlimited allowed Derek to not only continue his studies, work full-time, and also earn two six-point credentials. Through this journey, Derek's resilience shone brightly, turning challenges into stepping stones towards success.
Derek Hundley's story is an inspiration for students facing challenges, underscoring the importance of resilience and a willingness to embrace diverse opportunities. As he graduates, Derek stands as a living example of the Portrait of a Graduate, a multi-faceted individual equipped with the skills and attributes necessary for success in a dynamic world.
Layla Brohard (12th) - London High School
Layla - aka The Dragon Lady in the art room, is truly a phenomenal young lady. Artistically, she has reached new heights this year and has mastered the skill of storytelling through Ceramics. She is described as being one of the most detail-oriented students and takes great pride and pleasure in her work. Layla is a thoughtful and considerate young lady who is always willing to lend a helping hand - accompanied by a big, heartfelt smile. Additionally, in the classroom, or on the golf course, Layla demonstrates an unwavering work ethic, a positive attitude, and a relentless commitment to maximizing her abilities and potential. In terms of leadership, Layla has been the unofficial captain of the team since her freshman year. Layla, academically and personally, is everything London City Schools should be trying to foster in their graduates. She perfectly embodies what our Portrait of a Graduate aims to showcase and I can't think of a better recipient.
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