Search Results

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment December 2018 Student of the Month Jackson Held Jackson Held, son of Joe and Janet Held, has been named the December Student of the Month at Royalton High School (RHS). He has an older brother, Ty, who graduated from RHS. Held’s favorite class is math with Jeff Schoenrock because, “he makes it easy and fun.” “I have had Jackson the last 2 years in both of my college math classes. He has excelled in my classes. He quickly grasps the concepts and then helps others in class understand it. He is able to explain things in a way others seem to understand,” said Schoenrock. “Jackson is very dedicated to RHS. I have not only witnessed him giving it his all in the classroom, I also see him daily in the workout center. He gave it his all in football this year and is doing the same in wrestling. All his hard work is paying off in the classroom, on the field, and on the mat. He is a positive role model for all the students and athletes in school. Jackson is very respectful, caring and hardworking.” Social Studies teacher Jeremy Schaa said, “Jackson speaks with his actions not his words, and demonstrates what it looks like to be both a good student and a good person.” Held’s activities include football, wrestling, and FFA. A favorite high school memory for Jackson was the senior class winning the Homecoming Olympics. Future plans for Held are to attend St.Cloud State University where he plans to study construction management. He will also continue his wrestling career at SCSU. Jackson’s advice to freshmen is, “Do what has to be done; when it has to be done; as well as it can be done; do it that way all the time.”

ELEMENTARY MEDIA CENTER Welcome to the Royalton Elementary Media Center. The library has over 14,000 books. New books are added 2-3 times a year. Come check us out! LIBRARY CATALOG Pathfinder Links Award Lists K-2 Dictionary...with word activities Kids Infobits ...database Starfall Kindersite Primary Games Alphabet Resources Great River Library Kids Page 3-5 PBS for Kids Fun Brain Rhyming Words Spelling Fun World Almanac for Kids Phonics Tutorial Spelling Great River Library Kids Page Maud Hart Lovelace Nominees Star of the North Nominees Contact the Elementary Office at (320) 584-4160 or leave a message at (320) 584-4148

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment < Back November 2018 Artist of the Month Jordan Pesta Royalton High School recently named high school junior, Jordan Pesta, as Artist of the Month for November. Pesta is the daughter of Brenda and Neil Pesta, and has been drawing for as long as she can remember. She has created characters for an original storybook and is presently using digital imaging processes to bring her characters to life. "I've been drawing since I could pick up a pencil," stated Pesta. "My room is flooded with drawings scattered from the floor to the bed. There isn't a single notebook that I own that doesn't hold drawings or sketches of animals or imaginary characters." "I've always loved art, so Royalton High School's art classes are by far my favorite in school. In Design class this past year, our final Design project is one of our choice, so I am working with animation through a storybook. The characters each have their own unique personalities that fit into their own little piece of the world. The book, entitled Natural Oddities', has two main characters as the protagonists. These characters are much the same as every student who searches for a direction in their life. Each is like a unique piece of a puzzle. As these characters move throughout the story, each runs into road blocks, and has to find the way though to the end of their own personal story. The happy ending in every story is when one might look back with a smile after finding how their puzzle piece fits into their own life journey. I have applied the elements and principles of design that I learned to give these characters a look that is three dimensional. I also am exploring animation through digital media to give them movement from one page to the next. The other pieces show one of my more traditional watercolor pieces of the skull and one of my clay designed projects of my logo created in Design class" added Pesta. Carl Halverson, Royalton's Art instructor, sees Pesta as having such a unique perspective in not only his classroom, but also out the classroom. "Jordan is as "one of a kind" as a person as her own characters are in her story. While we may try to define success as following a given path to reach a given educational outcome, some unique individuals never seem to follow that same path. In fact, they break their own path, a path far less traveled, and arrive at an entirely different destination. All of this began through the exploration of new ideas through the use of technology. The world itself has become a university of independent instructors who can teach new areas of expertise not offered within the traditional model of a brick and mortar school building. It's exciting to watch students with such extraordinary talents explore education in such a non traditional way while pulling others along for the ride. I hope to help these gifted students like Jordan become who she is supposed to be, so that she finds where she, as a puzzle piece, finds her own place in this world." Upon graduation, Pesta sees herself taking the next step of her journey at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design to pursue a major in Graphic Design, Illustration and Comic Art.

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment December 2020 Student of the Month Aubrey Krueger Royalton High School is proud to announce that Aubrey Krueger was selected as Student of the Month for December. Aubrey is the daughter of Isaac and Amy and older sister of Hannah. Aubrey gives her family a lot of credit for where she is today, “My family has taught me to work hard for the things I want in life and never take anything for granted. I feel very blessed to be surrounded by the support of immediate family, my grandparents, and my extended family throughout my high school career. They have been my cheering section for nearly all of my activities, edited my English papers, obtained their bus driver’s license, and always provided me with words of encouragement. I am very thankful that I have such a supportive family! Some of the things I like to do with my family are camping and taking our boat out on the lake in the summer.” At Royalton High School, Aubrey is involved in basketball, softball, volleyball manager, YES Club, BPA and Minnesota Honor Society. Aubrey believes being involved in these activities has played a huge role in her life, “I think everyone should take advantage of the extra-curricular activities at school because there is something for everyone. Being involved in activities has introduced me to some of my closest high school friends.” “I’ve had the opportunity to get to know Aubrey these past 4 years. I’ve seen so much growth in Aubrey as a student and person in the classroom and in her activities like basketball. Her work ethic in the classroom and in her activities has been awesome and it’s been a pleasure teaching and coaching her. I expect her to do great things in the years to come.”- Brad Baumann, Social Studies teacher and Head Girls Basketball Coach. When it comes to her classes Aubrey says her favorite classes were her Math classes. “I like math because it challenges me. I also like that although there are many ways to solve a problem, most of the time there is only one right answer so you can check your work. I would suggest taking a class that challenges you because it helps you learn and grow.” As for a favorite teacher in high school, Aubrey says Ms. Menden really comes to mind, “Ms. Menden challenges me to grow as a student and she also takes time to get to know me as an individual. Even though her class was early in the morning, every day she greeted me with a cheery personal greeting. She inspires me to be the best version of myself I can be in and out of the classroom.” Aubrey’s favorites memory in high school has been Homecoming. “My favorite high school memory was Homecoming. I loved being able to cheer on the football team with all of my classmates/friends and being able to compete in the Homecoming Olympics as a class.” Next year Aubrey plans to attend North Dakota State University to pursue a degree in accounting and in ten years she wants to have taken that degree and obtained a full-time accounting job. “In 10 years, I plan to be settled into a full-time accounting job, married, living in a house in a small town in either North Dakota or Minnesota, and probably starting a family.” Aubrey’s advice to high school freshmen is short but sweet “Don't take anything for granted because it can all be gone in no time!”

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment < Back April 2018 Artist of the Month Courtney Lemmerman Courtney Lemmerman, daughter of Leah Walz and Joel Lemmerman, was recently named Royalton High School's April Artist of the Month. "Since I could hold a pencil, my mother told me that I was very gifted. I have taken every art class that I could have, but really enjoyed my Independent Art class this year the most." said Lemmerman. About two years ago, Lemmerman was diagnosed with Lyme disease which pulled her from not only main stream classes, but also her extra curricular hobbies as well. "During this time, I couldn't use my hands very well and was very tired all of the time," stated Lemmerman. "I missed my art classes the most. I remember back in seventh grade, walking into the Art room for the very first time. Mr. Halverson helped to arrange my schedule so that I could take a high school art elective after seeing my work. Since that day, he has been pushing me to become a better artist and kind of took me under his wing. He became almost like of a father figure in the way that he would teach me not just art techniques, but help me to focus on the things that I could control in my life. Every day I went into that class, my attitude got better and better. His class made me excited to get up in the morning because I knew that I had a chance to create something that was amazing. He made me focus on the details of portraits, whether they might be imperfections or not. I took this to heart, because I saw myself as imperfect. He explained that imperfections are sometimes what make a person still perfect, still beautiful, just the way that they are if you look for the good in people. The Quiet Riot ceiling tile that I have worked on is a good example of this. Some people might not understand or like the image, but they can still appreciate the painting techniques that go in to the work if they are looking for something good." "Courtney is one of the top student artists I've ever seen walk into my room," said Royalton High School's art instructor Carl Halverson. "She has passed through plenty of obstacles, but made it through them and improved as an artist and as a person along the way. When she entered the art room, she found a place where she could take her amazing talent to the next level. Her ceiling tile work is technically, one of the strongest that I have ever seen. Her use of subdued color, which moves gently from the shadows to the highlights of her work, is truly amazing. What is even more amazing to me is that she has found herself through her success in my room. You would expect to find this from our RHS 'Artists of the Month' winners. But, I noticed that nearly half of our 2018 RHS 'Students of the Month' winners also chose the Art department as their "favorite" when it came to teachers and departments in our school. Courtney Lemmerman is just like these students who found themselves through their work in their favorite class. In fact, her eyes see the world a little differently, because she has the ability to take life's imperfections, and paint them "perfectly" in her own beautiful way."

< Hall of Fame Jennifer Fussy Class of 1988 Inducted May 2015 Jennifer Fussy was a 1988 graduate of Royalton High School where she excelled in athletics and in the classroom. Jennifer was a driven student athlete and never backed down from a challenge. Jennifer was a very decorated student athlete, she was a two-time letter winner in Cross Country, and a four-time letter winner in basketball. She also was an All Prairie Conference award winner her sophomore, junior and senior year and was All State Honorable Mention in Class A. However, Jennifer’s true passion really came to life on the baseball diamond. Jennifer entered onto the varsity baseball team her freshman year and played stints at first base where she proved to be an excellent fielder. She made her debut on the mound as a relief pitcher during her freshman year against Grey Eagle. In her sophomore year, she started as a pitcher and was able to record her first W. According to the MSHSL, to this date Jennifer is the only female to record a pitching win in a high school baseball game. Jennifer went on to letter in baseball her freshmen, sophomore, and junior year. In her senior year, Royalton fast pitch softball program was in its second year and Jennifer was able to participate with her female peers and she earned All Prairie Conference honors. Her athletic achievements and involvement in student activities did not stop there. She was selected as the female Athlete of the Year her junior and senior years, President of the Letterman’s Club, Student Council Representative, Art Club Member, and earned numerous scholarships. Following graduation from Royalton High School, she attended St. Cloud State University where she majored in Special Education. Jennifer graduated in May of 1994 and accepted a job at Mora Public Schools that fall. While at Mora Public Schools, she has taught Special Education in all levels and facets for their K-12 education. Jennifer directs the Focus program for Mora High School which she developed in 2008 and modeled after other successful programs supporting the at-risk population. In this capacity, she and the Mora ALC staff have worked together to provide interventions and support to the at-risk students improving attendance and graduation rates. On a daily basis, one can witness her effectiveness with this population of students. She is truly interested in each student’s needs and interests, forms lasting relationships, and because of this, her students work hard to pass classes and stay in school. Jennifer recently completed her educational administration certification with hopes of becoming a school leader. Jennifer has numerous positive attributes; many of those she will admit were instilled during her involvement in athletics at Royalton High School. She is described by her coworkers as being exceptionally organized, a strong team player, a motivating leader who effectively communicates and collaborates with teachers, staff, and parents. Jennifer is an avid outdoorsman, and volunteers in the summer recreation youth baseball and softball programs. She and her husband Troy, reside in Mora, with their children, Riley and Rita.

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment April 2018 Student of the Month Adam Olson The faculty of Royalton High School (RHS) has named Adam Olson the April Student of the Month. Adam is the son of Gail and Troy Olson and he has one sister named Haley. Adam’s favorite class is Computer Integrated Manufacturing with Mr. Robert Skwira because the entire class dealt with programming and building with robotics and he really enjoys that. Adam’s favorite teacher is Mr. Jeff Schoenrock because he really understands the way he teaches and he makes math enjoyable. Adam’s teacher and Coach Mr. Randy Thielges states “Adam is a competitor both in the class room and on the athletic court. He strives to be the best.” Adam is involved in Basketball, Baseball, Student Council, National Honor Society, Knowledge Bowl, and BPA. His favorite high school memory is playing basketball with some of his best friends. Adam plans to attend the University of Minnesota Duluth to receive a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He sees himself hopefully having a career in Computer Aided Design, Robotics, or Computer Integrated Manufacturing. He also hopes to start a family. The advice Adam would give to any freshman is “Play every sport like it’s your last game because one day it will be.”

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment January 2019 Student of the Month Rebeka Daniel Rebeka Daniel, daughter of Brian and Melanie Daniel, has been named January Student of the Month at Royalton High School (RHS). She has two younger siblings, Lukus and Lilieana, who are also students at Royalton. Daniel listed her favorite class and teacher as Composition I with English teacher Ron Makela. “Mr. Makela pushes you to do and be your best, and no matter what is going on in your life he won't give up on you.” “In the classroom, Rebeka is a leader, sharing ideas in discussions and offering assistance to her peers,” Makela said of Daniel. “While she has a very serious side that is hard-working and goal-oriented, she also shares her warm, personal side with her peers and teachers. Math teacher Jeff Schoenrock said, “Rebeka is hard working, goal oriented, and determined. Rebeka will push herself to overcome any obstacle she faces. In my college Precalculus class Rebeka will work until she has figured out how things need to be done. She has always been very respectful and will help peers.” Daniel is involved in Business Professionals of America (BPA), Cross Country, and Track and Field. Rebeka says he favorite high school memory was the 2018 Pepe Fest for Homecoming where the juniors and seniors were throwing candy at each other. Future Plans for Daniel include attending St.Catherine University where she will major in Exercise Science and Nutrition, and Minor in Physical Fitness. Rebeka’s advice to freshmen is, “High school goes by quicker than you think, just relax, have fun, study hard, and love every bit of it.”

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment April 2022 Student of the Month Ingrid Popp Royalton High School is proud to announce that Ingrid Popp was selected as Student of the Month for April. Jenna is the daughter of Terry and Julie. When it comes to family Ingrid says they have been very important to her, “My family is very important to me and they have taught me many important lessons. My dad taught me never to give up even when I don’t think I could do something. My mom taught me to be goofy and to not care about what other people think. My sister gives me advice whenever I need it and has always been there for me. My brother taught me to be a kind, caring person because he looks up to me. One of my favorite things to do with my family is going out to eat because it’s rare that we do that. It’s hard to pull my dad away from the farm because you can’t just pull a farmer away from his cows.” At Royalton High School, Ingrid believes the biggest activity she has been involved with was band, “I think the biggest activity I was involved in was being in band from 5th grade all the way to 12th grade. Band taught me that working as a team is very important. Each person has their own part and each part is important. Even if you have a small part in something, what you do contribute adds to the bigger picture. I’m going to really miss band class.” When it comes to her classes Ingrid says her favorite class was her internship with a kindergarten class. This is what she had to say about her internship, “It’s so fascinating to watch kids grow and learn. I wish everybody could hang out with those kids. Each one is so funny, sweet, and unique. I’ll never forget the time I spent in Ms. Larson’s kindergarten class.” As for a favorite teacher in high school, Ingrid says she not only has a favorite teacher but also a favorite staff member, “Dawn Towle in the office is one of my favorite people in the whole school. She’s not a teacher, but she still makes me so happy and her kindness inspires me to be kind. I am always so happy to talk to her and see her in the high school office. Mrs. Schreifels is one of my favorite teachers because she was the first person outside of my family who made me feel like I had a future in writing. I always was nervous to write and show other people and her feedback gave me confidence.” Outside of school Ingrid spends a lot of time volunteering, “Over the summers I help out with VBS at Shepherd of the Pines Lutheran Church in Rice. There is so much joy in singing and dancing about God with little kids. It’s cool to watch them learn about God. I also like to help out with Feed My Starving Children when our church does it. I like to contribute what I can to help people and make the world a better place. I also help at my family’s dairy farm because the farm is one of the places, I find the most peace and joy. I love being outside with the animals and helping my dad and uncle. Each day on the farm is a new adventure.” When asked what her favorite memory of school was this was Ingrid’s response, “In sixth grade, I participated in a game called Box of Lies in front of the whole school for Homecoming Olympics. Jhon was my partner for this activity and it was so much fun. I was so nervous lying to teachers because I thought they could see right through my lies. Somehow, Jhon & I beat all the other grades in this competition and we won. That moment when our grade started cheering for us in the stands was incredible.” Ingrid’s plans for her future are these, “After graduation, I plan to take a year off. I hope to work on the family’s dairy farm during that off year because the farm is my safe place and I love being outside. If I went to college, it would be to earn a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education to become a kindergarten teacher because helping children is so much fun. Then in 10 years I hope I’m working with kindergarteners. I love little kids because each child is so unique and has so much potential. I would love to help and teach kids to be the best people they can be and have fun doing it. I would love to be a part of their journey to success. It’s such a big accomplishment to see kids retain information that you taught them and know they will use what you taught for the rest of their lives. In between teaching children, it has always been my dream to write a book. Maybe I’ll write one, one day. Who knows!!” Ingrid’s advice to high school freshmen was this “It’s so cliche but truly don’t worry about what others think. Their opinion doesn’t matter. If you didn’t do something because other people told you it’s weird or if you wear something and other people make fun of you, that doesn’t show your character, it shows theirs. Please don’t worry about what others think.”

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment September 2023 Student of the Month Nate Moga Royalton High School is delighted to announce Nate Moga as the Student of the Month for September. Nate has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication to both academic excellence and community engagement during his time at Royalton High School. Nate is the son of Tracy Moga. Nate believes that his family has been a guiding light. “My mother's unwavering support and belief in me have taught me the power of a mother's love and the strength that comes from within. My sisters, Alli and Meagan, have been my role models, pushing me to work hard and become the person I am today. With their encouragement, I've learned that every challenge can be faced with a hug and a determined spirit.” In school one of Nate’s favorite classes was his 11th-grade physics class, taught by Heidi Noerenberg. When asked why he enjoyed the class, Nate had this to say, “The class was not just a learning experience; it was a journey through challenging yet engaging material. What made it memorable was the diverse group of classmates who, despite their differences, came together in an environment that allowed growth and camaraderie. I would recommend this class to others because it taught me that learning is not just about textbooks; it's about exploration, collaboration, and the joy of discovery.” When asked if he had any other classes or teachers that had an impact on him, one other teacher came to his mind. “Mr. Jeff Schoenrock, my math teacher, was more than an educator; he was a mentor. His classroom was a space where learning was intertwined with meaningful relationships. Mr. Schoenrock's ability to relate to his students and his effective teaching methods made every moment in class important. He inspired me not only academically but also to be a compassionate and understanding individual.” Nate has been involved in many activities at Royalton High School and believes they helped shaped who he is today, “Participating in the Royalton High School Drama club was transformative. Acting became a liberating experience, teaching me public speaking skills and resourcefulness. It also allowed me to form lifelong friendships and unite my community through the power of storytelling. Similarly, my involvement in the Competitive Speech team and Knowledge Bowl broadened my horizons, enhancing my speaking and critical thinking skills.” Outside of school Nate has had one experience that sticks out, “Being a part of The Little Falls Theater Company community theater organization provided unique experiences, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. It taught me resilience and the importance of adaptability. These experiences reinforced my love for theater and community engagement, shaping my identity beyond the classroom.” As for Nate’s favorite high school memory, he said it happened in gym class, “My favorite high school memory was the day my friend accidentally set off the fire alarm during our gym class volleyball game. The unexpected event, forcing us into the snowy outdoors, created a funny and unforgettable moment that bonded us as friends and reminded us of the joy in unexpected situations.” Nate also really enjoyed Speech competitions as well. “Competing in speech events, especially in the duo category with my partner Stella Hagen, stands out as one of my best experiences. It allowed me to combine my competitive spirit with my passion for speech, fostering friendships and skills that will stay with me for life.” When Nate was asked what he plans to do after he graduates and where he thinks he’ll be 10 years down the road, here is what he said, “After graduation, I am excited to attend the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities to pursue a degree in education and theater. My goal is to become a role model for young people, helping them embrace their true selves. I chose this path because I believe in the transformative power of education and the arts in shaping compassionate and confident individuals. Then in 10 years, I envision myself in the bustling city, holding a High School Administration position and, hopefully, with a corgi by my side. My long-term plan is to create a safe and inclusive environment for students, fostering creativity and acceptance. Being a role model for young people who might be afraid of being who they are is a dream I am determined to fulfill.” Lastly, Nate’s advice for current freshmen is, “Embrace your authenticity. High school is a journey of self-discovery, and the more genuine you are, the more successful and fulfilled you will be, not just in high school but in life. Embrace your uniqueness, be kind to yourself, and never shy away from exploring your passions. Remember, every step you take towards being your true self is a step towards success.”

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment September 2021 Student of the Month Autumn Schoenrock Royalton High School is proud to announce that Autumn Schoenrock was selected as Student of the Month for September. Autumn is the daughter of Jeff and Amy and older sister of Ava, Addison and Alise. Autumn gives her family a lot of credit for where she is today, “My family has probably been one of my biggest motivators when achieving success. From an early age, they taught me the importance of hard-work and determination which shaped me into the student I am today. Growing up with 3 younger sisters, I’ve learned how to share and be a leader. Although we argue, my sisters and I share an inseparable bond which shows in nearly every activity we are involved in together.” At Royalton High School, Autumn is involved in many activities such as: volleyball, basketball, softball, knowledge bowl, MHS, Y.E.S. club, and student council. Autumn believes all these activities have been beneficial for her with each offering her different skills. “Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of teamwork, time management, and goal setting within my activities.” “Autumn is a one-of-a-kind special student. She excels in everything she does, and isn’t afraid to try new things. She is also a great worker and leader, as a coach she is one of those players that you always want on your team. It’s been a pleasure having her in class and coaching her over the years, she will be deeply missed across all areas of Royalton High School when she graduates.”- Brad Baumann, Social Studies teacher and Head Girls Basketball Coach. Just like in school, Autumn enjoys numerous activities outside of school. She loves to hunt, fish camp and is also involved in her church youth group. “I love spending time outdoors, so most of my out-of-school activities occur in the fresh air. Additionally, I enjoy participating in my church youth group because it gives me the opportunity to spend time with other students and friends.” Autumn commented. When it comes to her classes Autumn says her favorite class was College English Comp. “Contrary to many of my classmates, I enjoyed my Composition I class Of course, it was challenging, but I learned so much and found I really love expressing myself through writing. For any student considering taking this class, I highly recommend it. I grew tremendously in my writing skills and knowledge. Plus, the class is college credit!” As for a favorite teacher in high school, Autumn says she would go with Ms. Menden, “One of my favorite teachers was Mrs. Menden. While helping me with class work, she found time to get to know me at a more personal level. Through our conversations, Mrs. Menden encouraged me to branch out as I made my after high school decisions. Because of her, I have been looking into the career of occupational therapy” Autumn’s favorites memory was beating Holdingford in the basketball playoffs last March, “My favorite high school memory was winning against Holdingford in the first round of basketball playoffs. This is my favorite memory not only because it was exciting and fun, but because this game proved how much my team grew over the year. The first time we played Holdingford we lost by nearly 40 points!” For next year, Autumn knows she wants to continue her education, but has yet to decide where she wants to go, “Next year, I plan on attending a 4-year college. I am unsure as to what career I will be pursuing, but I have been looking into elementary education and occupational therapy. I love working with children, so whichever direction I choose, I hope to be involved with kids.” When asked where she wants to be in 10 years, Autumn had this to say. “In 10 years, I hope to be successfully working and providing for my family. I see myself as a strong individual, capable of tackling any issue. One day, I hope to travel around the world learning from new experiences each and every day.” Autumn’s advice to high school freshmen is this, “Freshmen, high school can be challenging, but you’ll only get back as much as you put in; so, work hard, and have fun, for it’ll be senior year before you know it.”

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment < Back October 2018 Artist of the Month Isaac Kasella Isaac Kasella, son of Steve and Colleen Kasella, was recently named as Artist of the Month at Royalton High School. Kasella has always had a passion for the outdoors for as long as he could remember. "Ever since I could walk, I have been outdoors doing everything under the sun", stated Kasella. "I enjoy doing anything outdoors. I have tried everything from shed hunting to trapping and everything in between. I took the picture of my dog Sadie, and as soon as I took it, I knew that I was going to do a drawing of it this coming school year." Kasella has earned the right to enroll in independent art classes after taking the prerequisites needed to take his talents to the next level. "I have been taking as many art classes I could since my freshman year. I have taken art techniques, drawing, painting, and ceramics class. I also had the opportunity to be welcomed into the school's yearbook class and joined the staff last year. Next year, I will work in page design, photography editing, journalism, ad sales, and graphic design. I will be promoted to a Senior Editor for my senior year, which is quite an honor in our school," added Kasella. Royalton High School's Visual Art Instructor and Yearbook Advisor Carl Halverson had these words to describe what a quality young man that Isaac Kasella has become. "It's one thing to be given a gift in any subject area while attending high school," said Halverson. "But to recognize it, and then put the effort into this talent is all part of the process that many students sadly miss. Isaac works to improve on a daily basis in anything to do with the visual arts. When you consider that there are hundreds of students who walk the hallways at our school, to be chosen as an artist of the month or honored as a Senior Editor of the award winning school yearbook, that puts him in a class by himself. His many hours that have been invested in his high school career in the direction of his abilities through our visual arts program will pay off in his direction of the path to his future. It's the kind of discipline and daily work ethic that is locked inside every student. In this case, this fine young man has found the key to unlock his future through the success that he has earned through his diligent efforts in and out of the classroom. Through his enrollment in Royalton high School's art classes, he has invested in himself. I would most certainly expect a most favorable return on investment no matter what path that the future may hold for him."