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!
Gabe Schaefer (8th) - London Middle School
London Middle School is proud to recognize 8th-grader Gabe Schaefer as our Portrait of a Graduate (POG). Gabe has earned Merit Honor Roll since 6th grade and challenges himself academically in Algebra and Honors English Language Arts. A candidate for the National Junior Honor Society, he demonstrates focus, responsibility, and a strong work ethic in everything he does.
Beyond academics, Gabe is a dedicated student-athlete, playing running back and linebacker in football and shooting guard in basketball. He has participated in youth sports through Park and Recreation and other clubs, showing teamwork, discipline, and commitment. He also values the experiences and memories he has made at London Middle School, including end-of-year events like Unity Day, and he is especially excited for the upcoming Washington, D.C. trip in May.
Gabe demonstrates strong character through volunteer work at the Farm Science Review and by helping his family by babysitting his cousin. In his free time, he enjoys hanging out with friends, especially during sleepovers and March Madness, and is learning the guitar, practicing since the fall with guidance from his friend Nathan. This pursuit highlights his creativity, perseverance, and self-directed learning; key qualities of a Portrait of a Graduate.
Teacher Testimonials:
Mr. Billing, ELA: "Gabe is a fantastic choice for London City School's Portrait of a Graduate. He is a quiet leader who leads by example. Other students seek him out because they know Gabe is reliable, demonstrates a strong work ethic, and will tirelessly grind until the work is complete. I appreciate Gabe's smile and positive attitude each day and can’t wait to see what he accomplishes on the football field and in the classroom as he continues his Portrait of a Graduate at the high school next year."
Mr. Bannan, Social Studies: "Gabe consistently completes his assignments to the best of his abilities, demonstrating a strong work ethic and commitment to quality. He raises the expectations of his classmates by modeling high standards and encouraging others to do their best. Gabe is always willing to help his peers and shows genuine respect for everyone around him. These qualities make him an excellent candidate for the POG award."
Mr. Pollock, Science: "Gabe is one of the hardest-working students I know. He never shies away from a challenge and faces any adversity head-on. He exhibits great leadership in the classroom, helps others, and participates fully. Gabe is one of the most respectful students I’ve known, showing kindness toward others, especially adults. He is top of his grade in science, and it is evident due to his work ethic and ability to learn. Definitely a deserving candidate for this prestigious award."
Looking ahead, Gabe hopes to pursue something sport-related after high school and is open to college options, with The Ohio State University as his top choice.
London Middle School is proud to honor Gabe Schaefer as our Portrait of a Graduate. He embodies the values we strive to develop in every learner through his academic excellence, leadership, respect for others, and commitment to growth. We are proud of Gabe on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to seeing all he will accomplish as he continues his journey into high school and beyond.
Maleah Washington (11th) - London Unlimited
The London Unlimited Portrait of a Graduate is junior Maleah Washington. Maleah exemplifies the qualities London Unlimited strives to develop in its students through hard work, consistency, and a commitment to personal growth. She demonstrates strong communication skills, critical and creative thinking, respect for herself and others, adaptability, and confidence in her literacy, numeracy, and technology skills.
Maleah attributes her success to hard work and consistency. She is currently a junior who is on track to graduate early and continues to challenge herself academically and personally.
As a student in the London Unlimited program, Maleah has taken ownership of her learning while maintaining high expectations for herself. She has gained valuable work experience through her job at Bob Evans, where she works as a hostess and cashier. Through this experience, she has developed responsibility, teamwork, and customer service skills.
Maleah recently participated in the OhioMeansJobs Readiness Program and earned the OhioMeansJobs Readiness Seal. Her dedication is also reflected in the seals she has earned, including the Community Service Seal, Industry Recognized Credential Seal, and Science Seal.
Looking ahead, Maleah plans to attend the University of Cincinnati to pursue a degree in Sports Management. Once she completes her degree, her dream job is to become a sports agent. Through determination, consistency, and a strong work ethic, Maleah represents the best of London Unlimited and is well prepared for success in college, careers, and beyond.
Garrett Cremeens (12th) - London High School
Garrett Cremeens, a senior at London High School, is being honored as a London City Schools Portrait of a Graduate. A standout athlete in both football and wrestling, Garrett models the RAIDER Way through his dedication, sportsmanship, and positive influence across teams and the wider community. His involvement in athletics and service reflects the Portrait of a Graduate traits: effective communication, critical and creative problem-solving, respect for self and others, adaptability, and strong literacy, numeracy, and technology skills.
Academically ambitious, Garrett challenges himself with College Credit Plus and other rigorous courses. His commitment to learning and personal growth is evident in the way he carries himself with class and dignity, always seeking to improve and contribute meaningfully to those around him.
Garrett has earned the Citizenship, Science, and Community Service seals. These recognitions serve as reminders of his academic achievements and dedication. An asset to his teams, school, and community, Garrett brings leadership and value wherever he goes, and we celebrate his accomplishments as he prepares for the next steps after graduation.
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