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< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment January 2020 Student of the Month Erin Zapzalka Royalton High School faculty selected Erin Zapzalka as their January Student of the Month. Erin, the daughter of Danelle and Tim Zapzalka, learned about hard work and caring for others from her parents: her dad works on the family farm and her mom is a nurse. Erin is involved in numerous activities at RHS. She enjoys band because of her love of music and learning different instruments. She also volunteers with Minnesota Honor Society, helps the environment in Y.E.S. Club, plans events with student council, as well as participating in softball, volleyball and serving as a wrestling manager. Randy Thielges, science teacher and basketball coach says, “Erin is one of the students you can ask anything of her and she will complete the task well and on time.” Director of Bands, Chris Coppicus states, “Erin is a gifted musician. She directs our summer marching band, our concert band and jazz band with her French horn in hand. She is one of our strongest seniors throughout academics, athletics, and the arts.” Her musical talents follow her outside of school where Erin plays trumpet at her church for Christmas and Easter masses. She also volunteers at the Little Falls Humane Society and works at Scheels in St. Cloud. She explains that at Scheels she is able to bridge her love of helping people and her knowledge about outdoor activity equipment together. She hopes that the skills acquired in her job will help as a nurse in her future. When asked about influential teachers, Erin notes that Mr. Thielges, Mr. Schoenrock and Mr. Makela stand at the top of her list. These teachers “have their own way of teaching, and they each have a sense of humor to accompany their teaching styles.” One highlight of Erin’s high school career was the morning the power went out right before school. She and her classmates sat in the Lion’s Den while singing songs and talking which, strangely, created a strong bond between them all. A playoff softball game from her sophomore year stands as one of her greatest sporting memories. “We were down by two in the top of the ninth inning. There were two outs and I was up to bat while two of my teammates were on second and third base. Although I only had 1 strike left before the game was over, I felt no pressure. The next pitch, I hit the ball into the outfield which drove my two teammates home making the score tied. We ended up working as a team and won the game; moving onto the next round of playoffs. Seeing how a team can work together and overcome the challenge of the game has always stayed in my mind. “ After high school, Erin plans to attend the College of St. Scholastica in Duluth, with hopes to pursue a career in Registered Nursing. In ten years, Erin hopes to have all of her schooling completed and be working at a job that is “perfect” for her. She also hopes for marriage and a family. When passing on advice for underclassmen,, Erin states, “Yes, homework is important, but so is time with friends and having fun. If you use time management and have a good balance between the two, then you will be successful in school and be able to have fun, too.”

< 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 February 2023 Student of the Month Mya Yourczek Mya is the daughter of Andy and Amber. Mya gives a lot of credit to her family for many of the things she has learned in life, “My family has taught me the importance of hard work and dedication. My mom and dad never deterred me from joining any club or activity I wanted to join. They also come and support me in all my sports whenever they can. Some things I like to do with them is play board games and go fishing.” At Royalton High School Mya participates in many activities such as: volleyball manager, basketball where she was a 2-year captain, track & field, softball, President of Student Council, YES club, Knowledge Bowl and Minnesota Honor Society. When it comes to these many activities Mya had this to say, “I enjoy knowledge bowl and sports because they allow me to compete head-to-head with others. I enjoy the YES club because I miss school for field trips and being outside. And finally, I enjoy student council and MHS because it allows me to be active in the community and the school. I have gained friends and lifetime experiences in all of the different activities, and that has probably been the most beneficial part of being involved in so many activities.” Head Girls Basketball Coach and High School Social Studies Teacher Brad Baumann had this to say about Mya, “It has been a pleasure coaching Mya in basketball and having her as a student. She has a fun-loving spirit and has done a great job being a leader in all her activities and our student body. Watching her grow into the great player and student that she is, has been fantastic to see and I hope many of our younger student and athletes use her as an example to look up to. She will be dearly missed after she graduates, but its going to fun to see where she ends up in life because whatever she decides to do, I know she will be super successful.” Looking at her classes Mya says civics comes to mind first, “My favorite class is probably civics. This is because J. Schaa always cracks funny dad jokes, and I like listening to his odd fun facts. It's also my favorite because I get to take walks when I get antsy.” As for favorite teacher Mya says Sheri Menden is her favorite, “My favorite teacher is Ms. Menden. She made comp class something to look forward to with her bubbly personality and her constant joke cracking. She never thought twice about helping me even if I had dumb questions. She inspires me by treating everyone fairly and equal.” Mya’s favorite high school memory came during her freshman year, “My favorite high school memory was spending all of spring freshman year being with my friends doing whatever we wanted all day because of covid.” Mya also added that she had a memorable memory sophomore year as well, “My favorite event I was a part of was beating Holdingford in section playoffs my sophomore year. This stands out above the rest because the gym was full and tensions were high and I'm not sure a person in that gym thought we were going to leave with a win.” As to what she plans to do next year and where she sees herself in 10 years, Mya had this to say, “Next fall I'm attending the University of Minnesota twin cities to pursue a degree in criminology. I hope to eventually get a job in federal law enforcement. I decided on this because I was always interested in crime and I simply cannot stand the thought of being stuck in an office all day and in ten years I plan on living somewhere in a house I built with a couple of dogs, and traveling in my free time. My career goal is to join the FBI, and one of my life goals is to visit all 7 continents, and visit North Korea.” Mya’s advice to high school freshmen is this “find something to get involved in, and find an upperclassman to look up to. Also getting in a little trouble once in a while never hurt anyone :)”

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment < Back September 2019 Artist of the Month Matthew Kasella Matthew Kasella was recently named Royalton High School's September Artist of the Month. He is the son of Rob and Amy Kasella of Morrill, and uses his drawing skills as a creative break from his core classes on a daily basis. What he has learned is far more than just drawing skills. "I didn't have an art class since sophomore year, so I was really excited to take another drawing class this year," said Kasella. " I enjoy drawing animals, so I decided on a lion, the school mascot, as my first drawing of the year. It's relaxing to take a break from some of my core classes during the day and let my creative side run wild. I also really love watching my drawings progress and improve with each project and enjoy experiencing the other things that I learn along the way." Royalton High School Art Instructor, Carl Halverson, has been teaching this particular Kasella family of children for many years. While they all have their differences in interests and abilities, they share many of the same characteristics that make them so successful in the classroom. "Many years back, I coached this kid by the name of Robbie Kasella." stated Halverson. "He had really good athletic abilities on the field. But it was off the field that he impressed me the most. He stood up strongly for the things he believed in, and helped many others out of a jam, without hesitation. At a pep fest, I introduced him as he walked onto the gym floor with these words; "Here's Rob Kasella, #71 on the field, #1 in your heart." And so it is with his youngest son Matthew. Matthew's got that same spirit, and same"big heart," nurtured by his parents and siblings, that impresses me the most. He doesn't have to hang around the popular "click" to feel "more important" than other students. He's far, far above that kind of middle school mentality. I've seen him step up and help out younger students who might be struggling in situations, while many of his senior classmates would probably walk right by. His art abilities continue to amaze me as he works with that same "farm boy" work ethic that I've seen in many of his siblings. How do you test or measure the ability to uplift people around you? They don't teach this in college. But it's the outcome we all would hope to see in our own children. You don't become a teacher for the income.. You teach for the outcome... It's this outcome that this family has given back to me throughout the years I've been at Royalton High School." "Mr. Halverson is one of the most realistic people that I know." added Kasella. "He relates art class subject matter back to life, with a very enthusiastic and humorous approach. He finds and brings out the good in the people around him. It is this teaching style and genuine concern for students that makes Art classes one of the best parts of my day."

< Hall of Fame Matt Palmer Class of 1984 Inducted May 2010 Matt Palmer graduated from RHS in 1984. Palmer was a two-time state wrestling champion for Royalton and was a leader on three conference championship teams in the early 1980’s. He was named the team’s MVP two times during his high school career. Palmer finished his high school career with 121 wins and still holds three school wrestling records. Palmer attended North Dakota State University where he starred in wrestling as a two-time Division II All-American and was the National Runner-up in his weight class during his junior year. NDSU lost only three duals while Palmer was a member of the team. Matt graduated with a teaching degree from NDSU and has continued to share his love of wrestling as the head wrestling coach at Monticello High School for the past 16 years.

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment < Back March 2018 Artist of the Month Mercedes Vosen Mercedes Vosen, daughter of Chris Vosen and Melanie Capetz, has been named Royalton High School's March Artist of the Month. "I think I've taken just about every art class that I could have over the years," said Vosen. "But I never thought that I would have been named an artist of the month at our school. There are so many talented art students in our school." "I remember when I had my first art class in 7th grade. As soon as I entered the room, I knew that this was the place for me." she added. "Since then, I have taken photography, graphic design, sculpture, drawing, painting and a freelance art class that I am taking right now. It was in this class that I think that I created my best piece so far. This was a project that I made for my dad who has always pushed me to never give up. He says, "It's just mind over matter," which kind of is his way of saying that you can do anything that you want to if you just believe that you can. It also helps a lot to have a teacher like Halverson telling you how amazing the drawing was turning out, by pointing out the best parts of my drawing skills. Our family pet turned out the way it did because I was doing the drawing for my dad, and it was finished because a teacher believed that I was about to finish my best project ever." "If I had to choose an artist who works to their full potential out of this senior class, which is full of talented artists, it would be 'Cedes," stated RHS Visual Art Instructor Carl Halverson. "Every young person who enters my room has different talents and abilities. My job is to find out what that talent might be and then convince the student that they just need to believe that it's always been there, it's always been inside of them. I've been asked by many, how a school of our size could have so many talented artists, year after year. I can only answer that there are probably many students in schools all over the country who never have had anyone encourage them enough to bring what they've got inside, to it's full potential. 'Cedes Vosen is a perfect example of a student who has worked hard to become a success in the visual arts. Because she has done this, she will find it easier to believe that she can successfully transition into life's next chapter. Then, life just becomes a game of tag; you encourage those around you by believing in them. You help lift others up to find their strengths. Congratulations 'Cedes! You're 'It!"

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment September 2019 Student of the Month Anthony Rozycki Royalton High School has announced that Anthony Rozycki has been named the September Student of the Month. Anthony, the son of Seth and Bonnie Rozycki, appreciates his family and says, “I am incredibly lucky to have the parents that I do, even blessed. An amazing thing about them is that they talk to me about stuff. If somebody says or does something they are not afraid to talk with me about the best course of action. Because of them,I have pretty set-in-stone morals and that is due to their talking and teaching.” Anthony also feels blessed because his parents trust him and allow him to be gone much more often than is reasonable due to his involvement in so many athletics and extracurricular activities at RHS. Anthony is involved in Speech, Cross Country, Track, BPA, Knowledge Bowl, Student Council, One Act, Youth Group, Drama Club, We Club, Basketball, FFA, MHS, Band and Choir. He states that being involved in each of these organizations has helped him in some way, but the ability to speak publicly and the friendships he has gained through each organization are most valuable to him. This young man stays busy in every area of his life. Jeremy Schaa, Social Studies teacher, comments, “Anthony might be the most talented and intelligent person I have ever met, as well as one of the most giving. As far as academics go, he is at the top of all students I have had in class. I have also witnessed him take the lead in many plays, and last spring in the first musical our school had done in over 30 years. He does this while balancing schoolwork, sports, and so many other activities.” As far as academics go, Comp. I has been his favorite class. Anthony enjoys writing, reading and editing too much for it not to be his favorite. He also states there are far too many incredible staff members at Royalton High School to pick just one, but if he had to pick, Mr. Makela is his favorite. “If there was something in my writing that he did not agree with, he would listen and be accepting if I could justify what I had written,” commented Rozycki. Anthony’s favorite memories of high school come from spending time with the students that make up the class of 2020. He states that his class coexists well with each other and they all have pretty good morals. Rozycki is the type of person who sees the goodness and strength in all people. Math teacher Zach Silbernick states, “Anthony has an incredibly creative mind. Many students just want to be told what to do to get the grade they desire, but not Anthony. He truly cares about and enjoys learning. He would take what I taught him, go home, and research the content even more. Many times when he came back to class, Anthony was teaching me new ideas he discovered during his research. Anthony truly is a joy to have in class, but even better than his thirst for knowledge is Anthony’s character. He is an incredibly self-sacrificing young man, always more worried about others than himself. Anthony’s character and joy for learning are going to take him far in life. I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for him. We are incredibly fortunate to have a student like Anthony Rozycki here at Royalton High School.” Because life has so much to offer, Anthony has not selected a specific career plan; he sees the University of Minnesota as part of his future. His personal goals are to take mission trips and obtain a job that has a positive outcome on the world or individual lives. “Whatever I do, I plan to be a kind person. I think that matters more than the degree or job title I have.”

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment November 2020 Student of the Month Samuel Zimmerman Royalton High School is proud to announce that Samuel Zimmerman was selected as Student of the Month for November. Samuel is the son of Doug and Karen and comes from a large family, but says even though its large, it is very close knit, “Having nine siblings creates plenty of opportunities to learn lessons I never thought I would learn. For example, when we would have to cut down trees for firewood, I would always despise going out to do the work, but my brothers taught me that complaining only prolonged the work, and if you just get the work done, you can go home faster. I still apply this lesson in school and life in order to just get things done, or as I like to say “procrastinate procrastination”. My brothers and sisters have always encouraged my passion for music, drama, and art. They were always in the audience for my many concerts, shows, and programs.” At Royalton High School, Sam is involved in many activities. He has been involved in Drama, Speech, Knowledge Bowl, Marching Band, Jazz Band, Pep Band, One Act Play, FFA, Cross Country, Track & Field, Student Council, Choir, Minnesota Honor Society and directing the Junior High Drama . Sam says all of these activities has helped him learn so much about himself. “Sam is a phenomenal musician, both vocally and instrumentally! He is extremely dedicated to whatever he puts his mind to, whether it's music, theatre, school work or anything else!” – Cheri Ploof Royalton Choir Director. “Not only is Sam an excellent student but he is known in school for his fun-loving attitude and willingness to help whenever needed.”- Social Studies teacher Brad Baumann. When it comes to his classes Sam says his favorite class was Human Biology. “This class was the perfect mix between notes, projects, and experiments. This class sparked interest in a completely different field of study that I had never considered before. Ms. Gerads did a fantastic job of explaining what she was teaching and kept it fun! I enjoyed doing all of the projects and labs and this class made me want to learn. I highly recommend this class to anyone who has any interest in biology, or just wants to take a fun class.” As for a favorite teacher in high school Sam says it’s impossible to pick just one, “I have built a fantastic relationship with each one of my teachers so it is not possible to pick a favorite. I have had positive experiences with every teacher whether or not I was enrolled in their class. Positive motivation and encouragement from all the school staff have pushed me to do my best in whatever I'm doing, whether it be the arts, academics, or athletics.” Sam’s favorites memory in high school was being involved with the student conducted concert, “During the spring of 2020, the band was holding a student conducted concert and I chose to conduct the song Arabian Dances. The song was relatively difficult and I was definitely ready for the challenge. My favorite memory was the first day I stood on the podium and we ran the piece. It was intoxicating. I felt the music in a way I had never experienced before. I was handed this ability to control the song, to change the different instrumental sections to form this beautiful and electrifying piece and I never wanted to stop. This is my favorite memory because it clarified what I wanted to do for the rest of my life: I want to conduct; I want to teach music.” Next year Sam plans to attend Concordia College in Moorhead, MN and is going to pursue a degree in Music Education in order to be a high school music teacher. In ten years, Sam hopes to be teaching high school students in music and would love to spread his joy and love for music to his students. Eventually he says he may want to teach at the college level. Sam’s advice to high school freshmen is, “My biggest piece of advice is to build a positive relationship with your teachers. Teachers are people too and like the other people in your life, friends or family, a positive relationship will give you the best experience possible. Believe it or not, teachers want you to succeed, to learn, to do your best, and having a positive personal relationship will only make school quite a bit better. I don't know where I would be if I wouldn’t have become friends with the majority of my teachers.”

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment < Back April 2019 Artist of the Month Gavin Sowada Gavin Sowada was recently named Royalton High School's April Artist of the Month. He is the son of Kimberly Behrens and Craig Sowada. From a very early age, Sowada had interests ranging from "Old Ford Trucks" to the outdoors. "Drawing has been something that I have always done since around kindergarten," stated Sowada. "I would always attempt drawing old ford trucks or deer and fish. This year, I started to actually draw pictures that would hold more value to me because I took more time to draw them. I figured there would be no better truck to start on than my dream truck, a 97’, 7.3 Powerstroke. The class periods that I have worked on this drawing, not a single minute of it went by slowly. It always seemed that right when I started, it was already time to pick up and go to another class." "This photo of Gavin kind of shows you just a piece of what he's all about," stated RHS Art Instructor Carl Halverson. " From the logo on the shirt that he and a friend designed, to the drawing of the truck that he holds in his hands, his interests are on full display. What the shirt and the drawing doesn't show is another reason that he has earned the Artist of the Month honor, and why he has made such a favorable impression on many of us at RHS. He's the kind of student who seems to be able to make a classroom better by just being around as an example. If he notices that someone needs help with something, he doesn't need someone to persuade him to help out, he just steps up to the plate. And in some cases, he knows when to step back and not become a part of a possible negative situation. Many students who have the ability to draw or paint feel like that they are so gifted, that no one can teach them anything. "It's too repetitive, to practice shading or mixing color," one such student said to me a few years back. This student was in basketball, so I replied back, "Ya, just like in basketball practice right? They make you shoot hundreds of free throws over and over, and run full court drills, day after day. It's just too repetitive, so why even go out for the sport?" My point was that you do basics in any endeavor in life, over and over, to reach your full potential. Gavin never complains, he just tries his absolute best and his skills have progressed beyond these of people who just work on their own. He's also 1/2 of the 2020 senior Royal yearbook editor tandem that will lead our staff into success. I could not have picked better candidates from that class based on the work they have done and the deadlines that they have met. Gavin will do his best to include EVERY member of his senior class in next year's book, not just his chosen group of friends. That's a rare quality to possess at any age." Sowada added; "This drawing would have been nearly impossible without Mr. Halverson teaching our class drawing techniques since sixth grade, from perspective to shading and color theory. He doesn't just teach it from a book, he shows it to us in his work. I would be surprised if there was a better art teacher ever to teach these skills that also taught us important life lessons along the way."

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment October 2022 Student of the Month Ava Schoenrock Ava is the daughter of Jeff and Amy. When looking at how she has got to where she is today, Ava believes her family has had a big part in that, “I have a relatively big family with my three sisters and parents, and I feel that they are the reason I am where I am today. My parents have always been my biggest role models, always supporting me in everything I do. Having my dad as a teacher, parent, and coach, has had its ups and downs, but the positives have always outweighed the negatives. I have also always looked up to my older sister, Autumn, because she, along with my parents, encouraged me to get out of my comfort zone and join new activities. Having her by my side when I am scared to try new things, makes me feel like anything is possible.” When it comes to her classes Ava says her favorite class has been biology, “My favorite class I took was biology. This class was the first time I enjoyed learning about science, and I have loved learning about biology ever since. I have even considered studying biology in college. Since I liked the first biology class that I took in 10th grade so much, I decided to take College Human Biology this year and it has quickly become my favorite class. I really enjoy learning about the scientific makeup of organisms and learning about different aspects of the human body. The class is also college credit which makes it even better.” As for a favorite teacher in high school, Ava has a couple teachers that come to mind, “Most people would assume that my favorite teacher would be Mr. Schoenrock since he is my dad, but I decided to choose someone else for this category because even though he is a great teacher, there are other teachers I have had that really impacted me. Two of the teachers that have really left an impact on me are Mrs. Tordsen and Mr. Koenig. I only had Koenig as a teacher for one year when I was a sophomore, but he has been my advisor in Student Council for a couple of years now and one of my coaches in FCA, so he has helped me not only with my essays in English class but also with learning how to become a more confident leader. Mrs. Tordsen is one of the happiest teachers in our school, always smiling and encouraging me to do my best. I truly admire her carefree spirit and kind personality.” At Royalton High School Ava is involved with a number of different activities that keep her very busy, “In school, I am involved in multiple clubs and after-school activities including basketball, knowledge bowl, YES Club, student council, MHS, and FCA. I started playing basketball in elementary school and have loved it ever since. My favorite part of basketball is the rush you get after making a basket and the feeling of being a part of a team. I only recently joined knowledge bowl and YES Club, but I have found that I really enjoy being in both of these activities. Knowledge bowl gives me the opportunity to use all the information I have learned in school to compete against other schools, and YES Club allows me to learn about the environment and find ways to improve our school. I also really enjoy finding ways to help the community and volunteer which is the main reason I like being a part of MHS. In FCA, I get to spend time with other student-athletes who want to grow in their faith just like me. Student Council is probably my favorite activity to be a part of because I am able to help plan activities that go on in our school, but most importantly because Student Council has allowed me to develop leadership skills and make new friends. All of these activities have taught me the importance of teamwork and time management since juggling multiple activities as well as school and work can be quite a challenge.” When it comes to time outside of school, Ava likes to spend it doing a number different things, “Outside of school, I enjoy camping, fishing, and being a part of my church's Youth Group. As much as I love sitting inside watching movies and reading books, I also spend a lot of time outdoors camping and fishing with my family. Additionally, I enjoy being a part of youth group because I get to spend time each week playing games while deepening my faith alongside many of my friends.” Ava’s favorite high school memory came last year during the basketball season, “I would say that my favorite high school memory was when I got to play in a basketball game alongside all three of my sisters. My sisters and I were all born within 5 years, so we are relatively close in age but we never expected to all be on the court at the same time since my youngest sister would only be in 7th grade when my older sister was a senior. However, we did get the chance to play together if only for a few minutes, and even if I don’t get along with them all the time, it was pretty amazing having us all out there together.” As for next year, she had an idea but is still deciding what she wants to do, “At the moment, I am undecided about what I will be doing next year. I hope to attend a four-year college but haven’t decided where I will go, and I have yet to figure out what I want to eventually do for a living. I have considered studying biology and even animal science which are both topics I am interested in learning more about. When asked where she wants to be in 10 years, Ava had this to say. “Even though I haven’t figured out what I want to do for a career yet, I know that I want to find one that I truly enjoy and I hope that in 10 years I am happy with my decisions and where they led me. I also envision myself having multiple pets and hope to have traveled the world.” Ava’s advice to high school freshmen is this, “I know everyone says this but enjoy it while it lasts because these next four years of high school will be over before you know it. I found that the best way to truly enjoy high school was by joining a variety of clubs and activities. Even though it is scary and might be out of your comfort zone, you will make so many friendships and memories. Not to mention, being a part of multiple clubs makes you look better on college applications.

< Hall of Fame Mary Jane and Carolyn DeZurik Community Members Inducted May 2012 Mary Jane and Carolyn DeZurik were born and raised on a farm east of Royalton. Joe and Mary DeZurik raised seven children including a son and six daughters who all loved to play and perform. Mary Jane and Carolyn used a mix of trick vocalizations, wildlife sounds, and yodels to create a distinct sound. They began their professional journey by winning various amateur competitions in central Minnesota. The DeZurik sisters were selected to perform on KSTP radio in St. Paul and to perform at the Morrison County Fair where they were noticed by a performer on the National Barn Dance Radio and Stage Show. They were invited to perform and were eventually hired by the performing company. The sisters traveled to Hollywood and appeared in a movie called “Barnyard Follies”. Carolyn and Mary Jane were hired by Purina Mills and appeared in advertising and soon found themselves performing weekly at the Grand Ole Opry and on television shows called Midwestern Hayride and National Barn Dance. Mary Jane died in 1981, sister Lorraine DeZurik (Kosny) who performed with her sisters passed away in May 2009, and Carolyn DeZurik (Gill) passed away at the age of 90 in 2009. Information on the DeZurik Sisters obtained from Hillbilly-music.com.

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment < Back November 2017 Artist of the Month Jason Kasella Jason Kasella, son of Rob and Amy Kasella of Morrill, has earned the honor of Royalton High School's November Artist of the Month. Kasella, used one of his favorite hobbies, bowhunting, as inspiration to create his freehand, graphite drawing. "This Fall I took a trip to New Mexico to go bow hunting Elk with my dad, and his good buddy 'Bones', (my second dad)." stated Kasella. " Although it meant missing a week of football, I didn't second guess this trip. Everything, from the scenery to the number of elk we saw, stuck with me long after the trip ended. I actually passed up a nice five by five, in hopes of getting a shot at a monster elk that I saw, like the one that I drew in this picture." "I haven't seen Jason in an art class for a while," stated Royalton High School's art instructor, Carl Halverson. "It doesn't matter how long it's been though because he's got that "I'm in it to win it" attitude and work ethic. This same mind set that propels him as an athlete all the way to the State Wrestling Tourney, is mirrored in this pencil drawing. I've seen so many students who seem to be lost as they search for a direction to go after they graduate from high school. They seem fearful and confused by the number of people who constantly try to steer them towards an unknown goal in life. Then, there is this Kasella kid. He doesn't seem to be confused or afraid of anything because he is confident that he will simply outwork the competition. He's got that "farm boy work ethic" mixed with a quiet confidence that almost guarantees him success in whatever, or wherever his future may lead. Add to this, a quick-witted sense of humor, and life in the future looks as bright and exciting as his hunting trip with his two, three or even four dads who happen to be tagging along....." "Halverson has been teaching for thirty-some years. He still has the rare ability to push us to relate to our projects so that we are more motivated to work," added Kasella. "He is a "darn' good" teacher and makes his class very enjoyable, and my favorite of the day."