North Michigan News

The Glen Lake Community Schools board recognized three students, who were nominated as students of the month for the month of January, at a meeting, which is available to view on YouTube.

Each month, one student is chosen from each school and recognized for their achievements.

Principal Ryan Schrock brought third-grader Kate Chalup up to the podium as the elementary school student of the month. Her parents Paul and Morgan were also present.

Chalup was recognized because her teachers said she was a very self-determined student who could always be found talking with or helping her peers, never leaving anyone out.

Principal of both the middle and high schools, Dina Rocheleau recognized Alayna Ottenbacher, a seventh-grader in the district. Her parents Katie and Josh joined her. Rocheleau said that from the day she met Alayna, she knew that this young girl would be a student of the month someday and was a born leader.

Ottenbacher's teachers said she embodied loyalty, acceptance, kindness and a positive attitude. She shows best effort in all of her work and has never been anything but welcoming to all of her peers.

Rocheleau also recognized the high-schooler of the month, senior Kaleb Clayton, who was joined by his father, Timothy.

“I want to say that our staff embodies what it means to be safe and feel seen and valued,” said Rocheleau. “And one thing that our staff does is to support our children, and Kaleb is a living example of just what you can do because of those around you.”

Kaleb joined the district last school year as a junior during a big transition in his life and was welcomed by the staff with open arms.

Clayton’s teachers said it was a pleasure to watch his exceptional growth over the past year. He has changed into an outgoing student who rises to a challenge and is ready to learn. Clayton has even expanded out of Glen Lake campus to the Life Skills program and is now on his third job rotation. He says he loves trying new things.