GOWANDA - Gowanda High School has announced its September Students of the Month, with outstanding students selected in several different categories.
Alayna Kehr Grade 12, The Arts
A member of the National Honor Society and president of the senior class, Kehr was nominated by Heather Rydzik. Alayna has worked very hard over the past four years to improve her art skills. Alayna sets high standards for herself as a person and for her artwork. Her work is is very detailed and time-consuming, but she always turns her work in on time and it is well done. Her time-management and organizational skills as well as her motivation are a positive influence in the art studio. She participates in skiing and is on both the prom and yearbook committees. After graduation, Kehr plans to go to a four-year college, preferably D'Youville, to become a pharmacist.
Alexandria Broyles Grade 12, Social Studies
Broyles was nominated by David Bohn because she is well-behaved, shows up on time and has excellent attendance. She is always prepared and respects the rules, the teachers, and her fellow students. She is academically superior and brings a positive attitude to school every day. Broyles enjoys outdoor activities like camping, four-wheeling and fishing when she is not busy with her academics. She also enjoys spending time with her friends and family. After high school, she hopes to be a successful business owner.
Ashley Burr Grade 12, LOTE
Burr was nominated by Barb Dempsey because she is an honest, hard-working student in Spanish 4. Her willingness to help others and her positive attitude make her a vital part of her class. She is a great role model for others. This is Dempsey's second year working with Burr and she states that Burr continues to work towards her goals; always maintaining her focus. Burr is a Gowanda cheerleader, on the yearbook staff, a member of Student Council and she is in the National Honor Society. She plans to go to medical school upon graduation and become a doctor because she wants to help others.
Breann John Grade 12, Business
John was nominated by Ed Bugenhagen, who wrote, "She is an all-star student athlete that demonstrates her abilities in many ways. She is always committed to her task at hand and has the determination necessary to finish any goal that she sets. Time management is a necessary skill in Breann's life. She is not only actively involved in school, but also participates in volleyball, softball, basketball, and lacrosse. As a senior, she is a positive role model for others to look up to."
John plans to attend college and major in athletic training.
Bryanna Vert Grade 9, Mathematics
Vert was nominated by Nancy Dispenza because she is a very hard worker and a pleasure to have in class. She does exceptionally well in math. She enjoys doing math problems and stays focused on the lesson that is being taught. Vert is not afraid to ask for help if she doesn't understand something. She is looking forward to completing her high school education and entering the work force. She draws and reads books about animals in her spare time.
Denver Smith Grade 9, Science
Smith is in Living Environment and was nominated by Margaret King. Denver is a conscientious student who completes all of his work in a timely manner. He is not afraid to ask for help and always volunteers to answer questions in class. Early in the school year, he has already shown that he strives for excellence in all that he does. Smith is a member of his church's youth group and runs for Gowanda's Cross Country team. After high school he hopes to become a CEO for a business.
Jamie Jensen Grade 10, Physical Education
Jensen was nominated by Amy Cassidy because he is a determined student. He enjoys participating in all class activities and always tries his best. He has matured into a class leader and takes the initiative to help others with suggestions to improve performance as well as encouragement for his peers' efforts. Jensen participates in football and baseball. He plans to coach football and baseball after high school. He has learned many valuable lessons about good coaching through his Gowanda coaches.
Kimberly Gernatt Grade 10, ELA
Genatt was nominated by John Jarzynski because she leads by example in class and out. During class, Gernatt stays focused and involved. Her polite and enthusiastic personality is appreciated not only by this teacher but by students as well. Her bright smile and candid remarks captivate and impress. She personifies the pride initiative through all of her endeavors. Gernatt manages the GHS baseball team and participates in both the musicals and plays. After high school she plans to pursue a career in forensic psychology because she loves watching crime shows and seeing how criminal minds work.
Meghan Lulas Grade 12, Panther PRIDE
A student chosen for Panther PRIDE illustrates, on a daily basis, what being a Panther means: prepared, respectful, involved, determined, and excellence. Lulas is an active member of both the bowling and track team. Her future plans include opening a day care center to provide a safe place for children to go when they aren't at home.


