'Truly one of the best that Ephrata High School has to offer'
Jun. 4—EPHRATA — Hannah Keen, a senior at Ephrata High School, has been recognized as one of the June Students of the Month for her exceptional growth, dedication and positivity both in and outside the classroom, according to Marla Allsopp, the teacher who nominated her.
Allsopp, an English teacher, has had the privilege of teaching Keen in her College English 101 and 102 classes and the award highlights Keen's journey from a struggling student to a passionate learner and leader.
Having known Keen since her sophomore year, Allsopp has witnessed firsthand the significant transformation in Keen's academic and personal life.
"Her growth and how she has come out of her shell, and how she has really discovered who she is, has been really inspiring to me," Allsopp said.
The recognition of Keen as Student of the Month is not merely an acknowledgment of her academic achievements but a celebration of her character and willingness to support others, Allsopp said.
Allsopp emphasized Keen's inclusive spirit, pointing out her ability to connect with her peers regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs.
"She really is accepting and wants to listen to you and knows that she has something to learn from you," Allsopp said.
This quality not only fosters a positive environment but also encourages open dialogue among classmates, leading to more engaging discussions in the classroom, Allsop explained.
Keen has consistently demonstrated leadership in academic settings, particularly during class discussions, according to her teacher.
"She leads the discussion, asking people questions and digging into why they think the way they think," Allsopp said.
Allsopp elaborated, saying Keen's conversational skills not only promote participation but also allow her to respectfully disagree with others, when necessary, a vital leadership trait that encourages critical thinking.
"I absolutely hear what you're saying, but this is the way that I saw that," Keen said, reflecting on her approach to discourse.
In her college English classes, Keen exceeded expectations through her detailed and research-driven work.
"She will come in several times during the days as she's preparing to ask me questions and tell me about other research articles that she's looked up," Allsopp said.
Keen's curiosity and proactive nature make her not only a student who seeks knowledge but also one who shares it, Allsopp said, helping her classmates understand complex materials in the process.
Beyond academics, Keen has shown a commitment to extracurricular activities. She has been involved in the Hope Squad, an organization focused on mental health awareness, for three years and played a vital role in coordinating activities that promote peer support. Allsopp praised her dedication.
"She showed up every single day and made sure things were happening, made sure things were going on," her teacher said.
Allsopp said this commitment has encouraged other students to engage in the initiative, highlighting Keen's ability to make a difference within her school community.
When asked about her passions, Keen shared that reading is one of her favorite pastimes.
"You can live a thousand different lives and learn so much from reading," Keen said.
Her love of literature has significantly shaped her educational experience, especially this year, as her English teacher introduced her to new writers and ideas.
"It was so nice to escape from the hectic chaos of senior year," she said.
Keen also encourages her peers through her own journey. Reflecting on her past struggles, she provided advice to younger students.
"Life probably sucks right now, but it will not suck forever. All you can do is keep moving forward," Keen said.
She said this perspective has not only been a guiding light in her life but also serves as encouragement for those who may face similar challenges.
As she prepares to graduate, Keen plans to attend South Puget Sound Community College to pursue a paralegal degree while balancing work. Her aspirations reflect her diligence and commitment to personal development.
"I just want to see where life takes me," she said.
Allsopp said Keen's nomination as Student of the Month encapsulates her remarkable journey of resilience, leadership and friendship. Along with her ability to uplift her peers while wholeheartedly engaging in her studies, she sets an inspiring example for students at Ephrata High School.
"She is truly one of the best that Ephrata High School has to offer," Allsopp said.
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