BGHS Names December Students of the Month

An exceptional student has been selected from each academic division at Buffalo Grove High School to be honored as December Student of the Month.

Junior Leila Ayoub of Arlington Heights was nominated as the honoree of the Career Technology Education department by teacher Tom Mroz. "Leila is currently in AP Computer Science and plans to pursue an engineering degree," Mroz said. "She has taken Project Lead the Way courses, as well, and is a member of the Junior Class Board. When it comes to problem solving, critical thinking, and initiative, Leila is at the top of her peers. She continually demonstrates her abilities to break down problems, brainstorm solutions and develop successful programs using the JAVA. Her classmates look to her every day for help and guidance with programming applications and projects."

The World Languages/Social Sciences/English Language Learners division has chosen junior Jennifer Richman of Arlington Heights. Spanish teacher Gina Douvris commented, "Jennifer is an outstanding Honors Spanish 4. She is an asset to class because of her excellent daily participation. Jennifer is always engaged and volunteers for even the most challenging questions. She is committed to speaking in the target language not only with me, but also with her peers. Finally, Jennifer's strong understanding of grammar concepts is evident by her nearly flawless exams."  

Sophomore Tracy Preza of Arlington Heights is Student of the Month for English/Fine Arts. English teacher Kate Hutchinson nominated her for the honor with the comment, "Tracy is an excellent student in our department. Her participation in Honors World Literature and Composition is exemplary, and she shows great leadership on the staff of our school newspaper, The Charger. Tracy is also an accomplished debater who has won several medals at Lincoln-Douglas debate tournaments this year."

The Physical Education/Health/Driver's Education department selected junior Yulidia Garcia of Arlington Heights to be recognized this month. P.E. teacher Teri Janus said, "Yulidia is the epitome of hard work and dependability. As we come close to the end of the semester, she has near perfect attendance. She is a role model for her peers, participating regularly at boot camp and weight training. Yulidia pursues the highest levels of physical fitness in her daily participation; and motivates those around her with her positive attitude and contagious smile. She takes pride in her level of participation and tackles the everyday obstacles that distract many students from being successful in physical education."  

Senior Megan O'Donovan of Arlington Heights is the Math/Science honoree.  Science teacher Jim Behymer said, "Megan is in my AP Biology class where she is performing at an exceptional level, including highest scores on virtually every quiz and test. Though most students find the course somewhat challenging, she seems to excel without any assistance from me. Her lab work is consistently outstanding. Her written answers to questions are thorough and thoughtful. In addition, Megan has participated in Science Olympiad where she has been awarded medals at the regional and state level, including 3-3rd place and a 4th at state. She is an intelligent, conscientious and intrinsically motivated student."

Student Services has named sophomore Esteban Gutierrez of Buffalo Grove as Student of the Month. Individual Resource teacher Kevin Schrammel commented, "Esteban, 'Steve,' participates on the Football, Wrestling and Gymnastics teams at BG. He is able to manage his athletic, academic and personal life with the utmost effectiveness. Steve has made a positive impact on this school and is often commended by his teachers and coaches for his hard work and dedication to his academics and athletics."

 — Submitted by School District 214