Winners

September 22, 2024 - September 28, 2024

School

TF Riggs (6057737354)

GPA

4

Activities

Kailey is one of our outstanding seniors at Riggs HS. I met Kailey in 6th grade when we met for her Diabetes (Type 1) meeting at the MS. I was her school counselor there. I have had the joy of watching her through her years in school and now she is my senior at Riggs as I have moved to the HS. She has always been a natural leader and has developed strong communication skills. She has great self-advocating skills that her parents have allowed her to develop her own plan for her diabetes at school and share with her teachers. She enjoys working with children and her peers. She would like to pursue higher education to become a teacher, which warms my heart. She has a 4.0 GPA, She has taken 3 Dual Credit Classes and is enrolled this year with AP Calculus, even though she only needs college algebra. She is a member of the National Honor Society, National Art Society, book club, Riggs Competitive Dance Team, and volunteers for many community programs. She was nominated and attended the National Junior Youth Leadership Conference in 2021. There the students brainstormed solutions to prevalent issues our country faces! Kailey is most deserving of your Scholar of the Week. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to me. Kim Rogers

Kailey Wallman is from Pierre, SD, located within Oahe Electric Cooperative, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

September 15, 2024 - September 21, 2024

School

Miller High School (605-853-2455)

GPA

4

Activities

•Volleyball, Captain for three seasons •Basketball videographer • JO Club volleyball • Fellowship of Christian Athletes/ FCA • National Honor Society/ NHS • Catholic Youth Organization/ CYO • Confraternity of Christian Doctrine/ CCD • Miller Swim Club • Band two years • Chorus three years • Regent Scholar

Olivia Resel is from WESSINGTON, SD, located within Dakota Energy Cooperative, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

May 12, 2024 - May 18, 2024

School

Langford Area School District (605-493-6454)

GPA

4

Activities

I recommend Megan Gustafson for the Touchstone Energy Scholar of the Week. Over the past five years, I've had the privilege of being Megan's teacher in a range of challenging courses including 8th Math, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, and Calculus. In every one of these subjects, Megan has consistently earned A grades. It's clear to me that she stands out as the most intellectually gifted student in her class. Megan's excellence doesn't end with her academic achievements. She embodies qualities that set her apart - a tireless work ethic, genuine care for others, and a remarkable sense of responsibility. Megan approaches challenges with a fearless determination, demonstrating an eagerness to tackle even the most demanding tasks. Impressively, she's the sole student in her class to have taken all of the advanced Math and Science courses available. Beyond the classroom, Megan remains actively engaged in a variety of extracurricular pursuits. She contributes her talents to volleyball, basketball, chorus, band, oral interpretation, and the school play. Additionally, Megan generously dedicates her time to teaching Sunday School at her local church. Her multifaceted involvement underscores her commitment to making a positive impact on Langford Area. In summary, Megan Gustafson is an exceptionally gifted student whose contributions extend far beyond her academic accomplishments. She is a true asset to our school community and a shining example of dedication and excellence. She unquestionably deserves to be recognized as the Touchstone Energy Scholar of the Week.

Megan Gustafson is from Claremont, SD, located within Lake Region Electric Association, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

May 5, 2024 - May 11, 2024

School

Frederick Area High School (6053292145)

GPA

4.05

Activities

Sofia is a top student, very dedicated in each subject she studies. In addition to her work in the classroom, she is very active on campus. Some of her activities include band, science club (science fair), Above the Influence club (focused on making positive choices and student wellness), basketball, volleyball, track, and cross country. Sofia has received accolades in many of these activities, including 4 Superior ratings at the Region IV Music Contest, 2 honorable mentions at the NSU Science Fair, being selected as a captain of the volleyball team for three years running, and going to state for cross country and track. Most notably, Sofia was selected from girls across the state to represent South Dakota at Girls Nation in Washington DC last summer.

Sofia Losure is from Frederick, SD, located within Northern Electric Cooperative, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

April 28, 2024 - May 4, 2024

School

Deubrook Area High School (605-629-1101)

GPA

3.88

Activities

Work Experience: Employee at Hy-Vee 2022-current Farm Aide on Family Farms 2016-current Activities: Volleyball 2023 Positively Dolphin Member 2023-current Ambassador/Leader 2023-current National Honors Society Member 2022-current Secretary 2023-current Yearbook 2022-current FCA Member 2021-current Leader 2023-current Student Council 2021-current Cross Country 2020-2022 Basketball 2017-current Track 2017-current Volunteer/Community Service: Prom Dress Resale (fundraiser) 2021-current Veterans Program 2021-current Numerous School Activities 2020-current Backpack Project 2020-2021 Share the Warmth 2020-2021 Harvest Table 2019-2022 Special Olympics 2017-2022 Church Activities/Taught CCD 2016-current Ball girl for SDSU basketball games 2016-current Leadership Opportunities: Girls State 2023 Leadership Academy 2023 Awards: Homecoming Queen 2023 Nominated for positive attributes-school (28 times) 2020-current Athletic Awards/Medals (over 80) 2019-current Bobcat Best Award (only 6 of 300 students chosen) 2018

Kadence Bowne is from White, SD, located within Sioux Valley Energy, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

April 21, 2024 - April 27, 2024

School

Deuel High School (605-874-2161)

GPA

4

Activities

Trey is involved in Key Club, National Honor Society, Varsity Basketball, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Varsity Football and Varsity Golf. Trey's honors and accomplishments include Key Club Vice President, 2-year Varsity Football Captain, 2-year Varsity Basketball Captain, 4.0 Honor Roll, Junior Class Vice President, DeSmet-Deubrook Area Math Contest Medal Winner, NEC All Conference Team (Football), ECC Most Valuable Offensive Player (Football), LCC All Conference (Basketball) and NEC All Conference (Basketball)

Trey Maaland is from Clear Lake, SD, located within H-D Electric Cooperative, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

April 14, 2024 - April 20, 2024

School

Milbank High School ((605)432 - 5579)

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.

Stella Wendland is from Milbank, SD, located within Whetstone Valley Electric Cooperative, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

April 7, 2024 - April 13, 2024

School

Wheaton Area High School (3205638282)

GPA

4.06

Activities

Braylen is involved in many activities at both her school and in her community. She has been in Cross Country since 6th grade, Basketball since elementary school, Track since 8th grade, Future Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) since 10th grade, National Honor Society since 11th grade, and Student Council since 8th grade. In her community, she coordinates and runs the computer and other technology at her church. Not only is Braylen, continuously involved, she is also one of the most caring people you will meet. She is always willing to lend a helping hand and has the utmost respect for others. She has patience and doesn't judge others based on things that are different but looks for a way to find similarities. She is curious and puts forth her greatest effort in her academics.

Braylen Schmidt is from Norcross, MN, located within Traverse Electric Cooperative, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

March 31, 2024 - April 6, 2024

School

Henry School (605-532-5364)

GPA

4.18

Activities

Volleyball, Basketball, Track, Student Council, National Honor Society, FCA She has been named all-conference in basketball and volleyball and has been a participant in the state track meet. She is also the senior class president.

Taylor Watson is from Henry, SD, located within Codington-Clark Electric Cooperative, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

March 24, 2024 - March 30, 2024

School

Waubay High School (6059474529)

GPA

4

Activities

NHS, dual-credit student, Student council President 2022-Present, Track, lector at church, member of day county 4-H, Webster/Waubay FFA Chapter member, National Junior board vice president for American Junior Aberdeen Association.

Caleb Weyh is from Summit, SD, located within Lake Region Electric Association, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.