Stella will be featured on Dakota News Now during the 6:00PM news on Monday, April 15 and again on the Dakota News Now morning news on Tuesday, April 16 between 6:00AM and 7:00AM.
- Scholar
- Stella Wendland
- Date
- April 14, 2024 - April 20, 2024
- School
- Milbank High School
- GPA
- 4.19
- Activities
- I am writing this letter to highly recommend Stella Wendland to be chosen for the Touchstone Energy Student of the Week. As one of Stella's high school math teachers, I have had the pleasure of witnessing her exceptional academic abilities, her outstanding character, and her unwavering dedication to her studies. I have known Stella since she was in my advanced geometry class her freshman year of high school. Over the past four years, I have had the opportunity to observe her growth and development both academically and personally. Stella consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a genuine passion for learning. Her commitment to excellence in all aspects of her academic pursuits is truly commendable. Stella’s hard work has paid off, earning a number one class rank, a GPA of 4.1915, and an ACT score of 33. In the classroom, Stella consistently impressed me with her ability to think critically. It was always her goal to have a deep understanding of the content. She actively participated in class discussions, always offering insightful and thought-provoking contributions that enriched the learning experience for her peers. Stella continues to push herself academically with an impressive list of dual – credit courses she has taken throughout high school. Her ability to manage and be successful in all her classes and extracurriculars is truly remarkable. Beyond her academic achievements, Stella is an exemplary role model for her peers and the youth of our community. She is kind, compassionate, and always willing to step up when needed. Her positive attitude and strong moral compass have earned her the respect and admiration of both students and faculty alike. Stella consistently demonstrates responsibility and maturity in all her endeavors, making her a true asset to any community she becomes a part of. Furthermore, Stella has actively engaged in various extracurricular activities, further showcasing her leadership skills and dedication to personal growth. She is a member of National Honor Society, HOSA chapter president, and student council body president. Her ability to effectively communicate with her peers and teachers is truly remarkable and has benefited her in being chosen for these leadership roles. Stella also participates in cheerleading, cross country, choir, and dance. She has received many awards in all her activities such as being selected for the South Dakota All State Choir and South Dakota Honor Choir. She has also placed high and won many South Dakota State HOSA competitions. Stella’s list of achievements, awards, extracurriculars, and volunteer experiences is extremely impressive. However, impressive as her accolades are, it does not compare to how inspirational she is as a student, classmate, and person. Stella’s character is unrivaled by her peers. Her kind, calm, and respectful demeanor are just a few of a long list of endearing traits. Her compassion for others and selfless personality are admirable. I have witnessed her amazing character every day for four years. She is the first and loudest to cheer on her teammates at cross country meets, even after she is tired after just running her own race. She is the first to congratulate her classmates on their accomplishments as she genuinely wants to see everyone succeed. Her caring heart and willingness to serve those in her community make her an amazing role model. She is consistently volunteering at our local hospital and her church. As a mother to two young girls, I would be ecstatic if my daughters grew up to be like Stella. I wholeheartedly recommend Stella Wendland for this award. She is an exceptional student who possesses not only remarkable academic abilities but also exemplary character traits. Stella is a positive role model, kind-hearted, responsible, and consistently goes above and beyond to achieve her goals. I have no doubt that she will continue to thrive and make significant contributions in the future. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information or further insights into Stella’s qualifications. Thank you for considering her as a future Touchstone Energy Student of the Week. As her teacher, she has my highest regard.
- Cooperative
- Stella Wendland is from Milbank, SD, located within Whetstone Valley Electric Cooperative, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.