ChandlerUnified School District

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Chandler Traditional Academy - Humphrey Campus (2020-2021)

Comment of appreciation about CTA Humphrey special needs teachers, paraprofessionals and principal: "They are wonderful and supportive to those of us who drive a school bus! They try to be on time and are so helpful in a sometimes stressful situation. They have even volunteered on the bus to help when the children may be worried or agitated. I just can't say enough good about this group of people!!! The principal is also wonderful and has been personally attentive to school bus loading and unloading!"

Sanborn Elementary (2020-2021)

Congratulations to Alexis Muro, Sanborn's School Spelling Bee Champion and Lindsey May, School Spelling Bee 1st Runner-Up.

Sanborn Elementary (2020-2021)

Congratulations to Sanborn Chandler Education Foundation grant winner Andrea Vanlandingham, who will use the award to fund Escape Room Breakout EDU Kit for Technology Class.

Casteel High (2020-2021)

Congratulations to Geneva Baker and Kelly Powers, who were selected as event supervisors for the National Science Olympiad for Chiropterology (study of bats). They also served as the communications team for the National Science Olympiad Tournament, which was hosted virtually through Arizona State University. 2021 Science Olympiad National Tournament

Chandler High (2020-2021)

Congratulations to Adrianna Camacho, winner of the Sun Lakes Rotary (SLRC) Club's 2021 "Service above Self" Scholarship. Adrianna has a 4.4 GPA, has been in AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) for four years, and will attend ASU to study Nursing.

Knox Gifted Academy (2020-2021)

Congratulations to these Chandler Online Academy students from Knox Gifted Academy -- Gandi Jishnu, Ganesan Hari, Madupu Puranjay, Shan William, Tomar Reyaansh, Yanjarlapati Varshit Reddy -- who have been invited by Mathleague.org to participate in the 2021 Elementary School National Championship on June 19, 2021.

Rice Elementary (2020-2021)

Rice 6th graders finished their 3D design and printing unit by finally receiving their very own printed projects. Students used 3D design software to create an obelisk with their name etched in hieroglyphics, which was then printed out on one of our 3D printers. At the end of the project, they discussed helpful real-world applications for 3D printing (such as prosthetics for kids and devices for animals with special needs). 6th grader Ben Bunde used the software to design something he had been thinking about. He wanted to take the idea of using hydroponic gardening to create a float to hold a plant in a canal or pond. Ms. Wahid helped him adjust his design, print out a prototype, and now he can test his idea and improve his design! 3D Printing Photo Album

Basha High (2020-2021)

Congratulations to Justin La Zare, a National CyberStart America Scholar and $2,500 scholarship winner. The National Cyber Scholarship Competition for High School Students website

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Ryan Lancaster was an active member of the Speech and Debate team for four years, lettering for the last three seasons. He is also a member of the National Honor Society. Ryan is an IMPACT Chandler Scholar, with over 150 volunteer hours supporting several local organizations such as AZCEND and Saving One Life animal rescue; he also tutored multiple elementary and junior high students needing special assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic. He earned the New American University Scholarship at the President's Award level. Ryan will graduate summa cum laude and will attend Barrett, the Honors College at Arizona State University studying psychology. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Nicholas David will graduate magna cum laude from ACP as well as from Chandler-Gilbert Community College with an associate of science degree. A member of National Honors Society at ACP and Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society at CGCC, he will attend Barrett, the Honors College at ASU with a double major in architecture and either civil or structural engineering. Nicholas was part of the first ACP team to participate in the Lemelson-MIT Innovations competition, one of 15 high school teams in the U.S. to make the semi-finalists with a great product idea. Nicholas and his partners are in the process of patenting their design. He is founder/president of Coding Club, founder/president of Design Club, co-founder/manager of Music Club, member of Mock Trial Club, UNICEF and more. He loves music and has played the piano since age 3. In band from since 5th grade, he also plays flute and drums. He earned his red belt in Taekwondo, volunteers at Feed My Starving Children, church, and Project Mexico. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Elizabeth Nakai has thrived at Arizona College Prep. Her strong work ethic has enabled her to maintain a 4.85 GPA and earn AP Scholar with Distinction honors. In addition to academics, she is also an accomplished student athlete, lettering in cross country and track. She has qualified and competed at the state championships each year and received the AIA's First Team All-State Academic Award. She has participated in several school clubs including National Honor Society, Key Club, Art Club, and was instrumental in creating the Mountain Bike Club at ACP. A strong mountain biker, she earned a few podium finishes at both the Arizona Interscholastic Cycling League's and the Mountain Bike Association of Arizona's races. She intends to continue her competitive mountain biking career in college. Elizabeth will graduate summa cum laude and attend Colorado School of Mines to pursue a degree in environmental engineering. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Nikhil Dave was an active member of the Robotics Club and Math Club. Over the four years he participated in Robotics, he learned software programming and then taught club newcomers to help "pass on the torch." Nikhil started off as a team lead in Robotics and worked his way to supporting the club as Secretary. He dedicated his time to supporting the logistics behind prepping for tournaments, transporting equipment, and hosting events at ACP Erie. He plans to study Computer Engineering and has been accepted to a few of his choice schools. Nikhil will graduate summa cum laude, is an AP Scholar and a National Merit Scholar Finalist. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Arizona College Prep Erie senior Melody Williams has been a student at ACP since 6th grade. Melody developed appreciation of her half-Japanese background and started studying the language on her own about 4 years ago. She joined a Japanese traditional Taiko drumming group, and quickly became an advanced drummer. She performed at multiple stage concerts and community events including ACP International Festival. Melody was accepted to ASU Barrett Honor College with the Presidential Award, but she opted to pursue her passion 5,800 miles away. Melody will be studying International Business at one of the prestigious universities in Japan - International Christian University, Tokyo. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Nolan Lyons completed his Shodan - 1st Degree Black Belt on November 2, 2019, with determination, focus, discipline, memorization, goals, respect and confidence. Nolan will be attending ASU in the Fall at the Ira A. Fulton School of Engineering, majoring in civil engineering. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Bryce Williams has been a student at ACP from 6th grade. Bryce played basketball at JV and Varsity levels, though unfortunately his seasons were interrupted and ended soon by his two knee injuries during practice. During the course of surgery and recovery, Bryce was so inspired by the work of medical professionals that he decided to pursue the medical field. Bryce was awarded to the Letter of Commendation for National Merit Scholarship, and he is graduating summa cum laude. He will be studying Physiology at U of A with the Wildcat Distinctive Award. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Payton Phillips has attended ACP for the past seven years and worked very hard to maintain her GPA while still working. She is determined, kindhearted, and loves Jesus. Payton will be graduating high school not only with her high school diploma, but also achieving her Medical Assistant, EKG, and Phlebotomy certification. She will be relocating to Nashville, TN this summer. Her goal is to begin working in a pediatric or cardiac unit at Vanderbilt Hospital while attending Belmont Christian University's Nursing program. She hopes to eventually become a pediatric doctor. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Richard Lowther was recognized as a Commended Student in the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program. During high school, he participated on the swim team and played several different instruments in band. He also volunteered at Mercy Gilbert Medical Center every summer. Richard wants to continue his pursuit of learning at Arizona State University and achieve a degree in the chemical engineering program. Congratulations, Richard, on your hard work and dedication! ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Blake Su is an exceptional student and young man. He has participated in Key Club (President), Spanish Honor Society (President), Spanish Club (Vice President), National Honor Society and International Festival Planning. He is also a member of the Governor's Youth Commission, all the while maintaining high academic standards. Blake will be attending UCLA in the fall, studying political science and biochemistry. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Andrea Linder has enjoyed being a part of the ACP community since 7th grade. She has been involved in several clubs and activities over the years including student government, National Honors Society, Model UN, Key Club, dance club, cheer, mock trial club, coding club, gaming club, anime club and theatre. She was the treasurer of student government and theatre. She has also enjoyed being a mentor to underclassmen in the Knights Connection Program and tutoring students after school. Andrea was recently the lead in the KOS production of Oz and was inducted into the International Thespian Society. She has completed over 100 hours of volunteer work during her time in high school, and she received the Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish. Andrea is graduating summa cum laude and is attending the Honors College at the University of Arizona this fall. She plans to major in Animal Science and hopes to one day be a veterinarian. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Arizona College Prep - Erie senior Alexandra DaRosa has participated in Key Club, Spanish Club, Photography Club and Art Club. She has enjoyed numerous volunteer activities and is passionate about art and music. Alexandra is an AP scholar and an IMPACT scholar and will graduate magna cum laude. She has received the New American University President's Award and plans to double major in Sociology and Criminology at Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Sianna O'Brien is a senior at Arizona College Prep. She was a varsity swimmer and diver. During her high school years, she served communities abroad in Mexico, Jamaica and Zambia. She will be pursuing a double major in Bible/Theology and Intercultural Ministry Studies at Bethany Global University in Bloomington, Minnesota. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Arizona College Prep Erie senior Alexandra Lee has been a proud "Knight" since 7th grade. She has held her academic letter award for all four years of high school and a student government letter for three. She was junior class president and currently holds the secretary position on the STUGO Executive Committee. Her club affiliations include NJHS then NHS, Key Club, Newspaper, Creative Writing and Literary Magazine. Alex is graduating with honors and has accepted the Lumberjack Scholarship to attend Northern Arizona University - NAU Honors College in the fall. She will study criminology with a minor in psychology and hopes to work for the FBI in the future. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Michelle Sheikh was an active member of National Honors Society and Speech and Debate team, founder and president of Biophysics and Helping Hands clubs, played varsity Tennis, and was dedicated to research, completing two research internships with ASU's Biodesign C department and her own individual research project. Michelle presented to the Flinn Foundation and National Science Foundation, received Best of Fair at the Chandler Innovation Fair and AzSEF, Top 6 Junior Science and Humanities symposium finalist, nominated Future Innovator of the Year at the Governor's Celebration of Innovation, and won 1st place from both the U.S. Agency for International Development and the Air Force Research Laboratory as a Regeneron ISEF finalist. She will graduate magna cum laude as an AP Scholar, New American University Dean's Award and the New American University Provost Award recipient. She will major in biomedical sciences and minor in global health at Barrett, The Honors College at ASU. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Astha Rohit has been a student at ACP since 9th grade and has accomplished many feats since then. She was the founder of the first photography-related club at ACP and has been president since her freshman year. She has also been the president of AP Scholars for three years and has achieved the AP Scholar with Distinction Award. She is also an active member of NHS, Key Club, Red Cross, Future Medical Professionals Club, KOS (theatre) and more. After three years of learning American Sign Language, Astha received her Seal of Biliteracy and is still studying ASL. For her final year at ACP, she joined the school newspaper and became a staff writer for the ACP Knight Times. She enjoyed participating in both her studies and extracurricular activities at ACP. Astha will be graduating summa cum laude and going on to pursue her dreams by majoring in Biological Sciences (Biomedical Sciences) at Arizona State University. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Andrew Coffey will begin attending Barrett Honors College at Arizona State University in the 2021 fall semester. He will be a student in the W.P. Carey Business School at ASU. He aspires to have a successful and challenging career in business or finance. Andrew earned the New American University Scholarship from ASU. He is graduating magna cum laude after earning an academic letter in each of his four years of high school. In addition to his academic successes, Andrew played on his high school basketball team for three years. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Grace Gardner was an active member of the JV Cheer team during her Freshman and Sophomore years, both times competing at Nationals. Grace was an active member of the International Thespian Society for three years, student-directing all major productions at ACP during that time. Grace competed at State in her junior year in Stage Direction and was selected to compete at Nationals for Stage Direction -- which was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Grace was awarded the Dean Scholarship at Northern Arizona University where she will major in Business Management. Grace will graduate cum laude and with honors from the International Thespian Society. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Ananya Lakhotia is a recipient of the highly competitive and prestigious Flinn Scholarship for 2021 and will be attending Barrett, The Honors College at ASU to double major in Biochemistry and Justice Studies. For the past 3 years she has been an active member of the Speech and Debate team where she contributed both as a participant and captain. She received the Academic All-American award from the National Speech & Debate Association, reserved for only the top 2% of the NSDA member students. As state champion she also got the opportunity to represent Arizona at Nationals. A founding leader of the Peace of Mind club, she was also involved with She's the First, Tutor club and National Honor Society. From an early age, Ananya learned various dance forms including the Indian classical dance of Kathak and in her spare time enjoys baking. A National Merit commended scholar and AP Scholar with Distinction, Ananya will graduate summa cum laude with a seal of biliteracy in Spanish. ACP Erie Senior Highlights

Basha High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Basha High senior Nate Woodbourne is an amazing young man. Besides being academically driven and taking rigorous courses in high school, he maintains a high GPA. Additionally, he has participated in football and track and is currently second in state for javelin throwers. Nate will be headed to University of Arizona in the fall. Basha High Senior Highlights

Basha High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Jasmeen Sidhu plans to attend Arizona State University to major in Biological Sciences in the fall. She is a National Merit Finalist and has been awarded the Sun Devil State Award. She plans on going to medical school post undergrad with a desire to become a dermatologist. She has committed countless hours to her extracurricular activities, including being a member of the National Honor Society, Science is Fun, and Si Se Puede. In addition to being in clubs, Jasmeen has followed her passion of dance and has been a member of the National Honors Society for Dance Arts, the Kismet Junior Dance Company, and the Arizona Dance Studio. Basha High Senior Highlights

Basha High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Stephanie Robinson plans to attend Baylor University as an Invitation to Excellence Scholar majoring in Nutrition Sciences. She has a strong interest in nutrition with a goal of becoming a registered dietician. She received the Principal's 4.0 award for four consecutive years. As part of the Basha High School Girls Varsity Tennis team, she was named Most Valuable Player (2019) and captain (junior year), and volunteered to help coach the freshman team. Stephanie's extracurricular activities include National Honors Society, Link Crew, Young Conservative Student Union, Concert Band, and Student Government where she served as freshman class president and as sophomore class publicity manager. She logged over 100 hours of community service volunteering with Feed My Starving Children, local elementary schools (setting up and managing carnivals, art programs and dances), the Basha Public Library Summer Reading program, and meal preparation as a volunteer cook at Avana Assisted Living. Basha High Senior Highlights

Basha High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Madelynn Mortenson has taken many AP, Honors, and Dual Enrollment courses has a 4.28-weighted GPA. She received the Student of the Quarter award in her Biology class her sophomore year and the 4.0 award from 2017-2020. Madelynn has been actively involved in community service, completing 45 hours of volunteer work through the National Honor Society. Throughout the winter of 2019, she served a total of twenty hours volunteering at Feed My Starving Children. Madelynn's long-term goal is to be a psychiatrist. She wants to major in Psychology and then go to medical school to pursue a degree in Psychiatry at either the University of Alabama or the University of Arizona. Basha High Senior Highlights

Basha High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Olivia Breen has served in many capacities: Girl STEMpowerment (Director of Physics), Science is Fun (Senior Representative), NHS, Symphonic Orchestra (holding positions as Concertmaster, Section Leader, Council Treasurer, and Council VPGirl). She has been honored as part of the Southwest Regional Orchestra, Arizona All-state Orchestra, and was among a select group of students who made All Regional and All State all four years of high school. Olivia is also co-founder and 1st violinist of Willow String Quartet and Social Media Chair/Winter Summit Chair for the Gilbert Town Fiddlers. This summer, she has been selected to attend and perform at Madeline Island Chamber Music Festival and Hilton Head Chamber Music Institute. Olivia is a National Merit Finalist, Hispanic National Scholar, and an AP Scholar with Distinction. She is deciding between attending Vanderbilt University for violin performance or The University of Colorado majoring in violin performance and aerospace engineering. Basha High Senior Highlights

Basha High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Aubrey Breen has been a vital part of the school community through her involvement with Science is Fun, Girl STEMpowerment (Director of Biology Curriculum and Workshop Leader), LINK Crew, and National Honor Society. She is president of the BHS Orchestra Council and has been the principal cellist in Symphonic Orchestra all four years. Additionally, she is 1st cellist and Co-founder of Willow String Quartet; Cellist, Social Media Chair and Social Events Coordinator for Gilbert Town Fiddlers; and was awarded Honorable Mention in the Arizona Cello Society Competition 2020. Aubrey will be attending The University of Notre Dame, majoring in mechanical engineering and cello performance. She is recognized as a Hispanic National Scholar, Commended Scholar, and an AP Scholar with Distinction. Basha High Senior Highlights

Basha High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Winter Ashley was an active member in ITS (International Thespian Society), SIC (Sudden Impact Comedy), National Honor Society, Academic Decathlon, GSA, and was instrumental in launching CUSD's Diversity and Equity program. Winter was involved with the Arizona Coalition Girl Up and Teen Advisor to Girl Up Headquarters in Washington, D.C. She has been highlighted in the Smithsonian Institute for her part in women's activism, and presented at the United Nations Global Engagement Summit panel. Winter was named a Questbridge National Search Scholar and will be attending Washington and Lee University with a full 4-year scholarship. She intends to study neuroscience and law. Basha High Senior Highlights

Basha High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  A vital part of the Basha Academic Decathlon team, Jake Summers’ stellar finish at the state competition placed him 2nd overall among all competitors, with a 1st place medal in science (perfect score), a 1st place medal in music (perfect score), and medals in four other disciplines. The team closed the season with a 3rd place team finish at State, Basha’s highest ranking in school history. He recently learned that he is going to compete at the Academic Decathlon national level competition. This year, the Science is Fun club earned the Most Engaging Presentation at the Arizona SciTech Festival with his Honors Science Research contributions. A National Merit Finalist scholarship winner, AP Scholar and recipient of two Academic Decathlon scholarships, Jake will graduate with an AP Capstone Diploma from Basha. He plans to attend Barrett, the Honors College at Arizona State University and double major in mathematics and astrophysics. Basha High Senior Highlights

Basha High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Ayanna Pena is in the Physical Therapy program at EVIT, where she was voted physical therapy class president. Ayanna excels both in the classroom and as a humanitarian. Throughout her high school experience, she has volunteered at a crisis pregnancy center, taken numerous philanthropic trips to Mexico and Nicaragua, and led a fundraiser for Hurricane Relief in Puerto Rico. Basha High Senior Highlights

Basha High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Basha High School has been lucky to have senior Anna Curry for the last four years because of her passion for others and for always excelling at anything she does. During her time at BHS, she has served as an American Sign Language club officer for four years, a National Honor Society member for two years, an Orienteering and Marksmanship Junior Reserves Officer in the Junior ROTC Training Corps for the last three years, state qualifier for HOSA (Future Health Professionals, formerly known as Health Occupations Students of America) Biotechnology Club for the last two years, a Kitty Hawk Air Society deputy commander for two years, and as the Gender and Sexuality Expression vice president for a year. Throughout these pursuits and through her philanthropic endeavors, she dedicates herself to the school mission of benevolence, honor, and scholarship where she has volunteered over 110 hours during her time as a Bear. Basha High Senior Highlights

Basha High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Basha High senior Olivia Hajdys has a 4.875 GPA. She was Vice President of HOSA (Future Health Professionals, formerly known as Health Occupations Students of America), president of Science is Fun, president of the National Spanish Honors society, and president of Si Se Puede. Olivia competed on both the spirit line and dance team at Basha High and was a state level award winner at HOSA competitions. She is fluent in three languages - English, Polish, and Spanish. Olivia is a humanitarian, serving those in need overseas providing medical assistance. She is also a Certified Basic Life Support instructor. Olivia will graduate summa cum laude. She will be accepting the National Guard ROTC scholarship and attending the University of Arizona as a Pre-Med major. Basha High Senior Highlights

Basha High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Cayden Musgrove has a weighted GPA of 4.3 and has been a National Honor Society member of two years. He has taken multiple engineering classes which all dealt with things such as coding, bread-boarding, and graphic design, in addition to multiple Advanced Placement and honors classes. Cayden is also very involved in extracurricular activities at school and outside of school. He is a peer facilitator and helps special needs students with PE skills, life skills, and social skills. He has attended Feed My Starting Children on multiple occasions to prepare food for the less fortunate. He has volunteered at the Salvation Army during Christmas. Cayden is able to succeed equally in academics and athletics. Cayden has committed to the University of Mary Hardin Baylor in Texas where he received the Presidential Scholarship. He will study computer science to pursue a career in cybersecurity. Basha High Senior Highlights

Basha High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Francisco Mendoza has been in Newspaper club, National Honor Society, and on the boys' varsity golf team sophomore through senior year. He is president of the golf club this year. Francisco was a Graphic Design Skills USA team member for 3 years, has been involved in the ACE (Achieving a College Education) program at Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC), and will obtain up to 24 credits with a 4.0 at CGCC, with sixty college credits by the time he graduates high school. His GPA is 4.46, receiving the 4.0 GPA award each year of high school. Francisco volunteered to feed the homeless, for Relay for Life, and Smiles for Christmas. He is biliterate in Spanish and English. He received a suit from East Valley Women's League, using it for internships. He won 2nd place in the Basha Science Fair his sophomore year in Energy. An ASU New American University President's Award recipient, Francisco will attend the Ira A. Fulton School of Engineering at ASU to study mechanical engineering. Basha High Senior Highlights

Basha High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Sreyha Nandakumar was one of 5 students to receive the Stamps full-ride scholarship to UofA. She plans to study molecular and cellular biology and public health on a pre-med track to become a neurologist. Sreyha was in National Honor Society and secretary for Si Se Puede her junior year, and in Spanish National Honor Society from freshman to junior years. She took 15 AP classes, has a 4.81 GPA, and received a Letter of Commendation from the National Merit Scholarship Program. Sreyha has been on the Mayor's Youth Commission for 5 years, organizing and leading community events for teens such as mental health virtual presentations on depression and anxiety with Not My Kid. She was on the Chandler youth budgeting panel to allocate funds for different non-profits that serve Chandler youth. She did Parkinson's research with a professor at ASU and placed third at HISEF in Molecular and Cellular Biology. Currently, she is working toward getting her license as a certified nursing assistant. Basha High Senior Highlights

Casteel High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Emma Kirkland has excelled in her Academics throughout her six years at Casteel. Currently, her GPA is greater than a 4.0. While maintaining these outstanding grades, she has participated in Project 15. Project 15 is Casteel's dance team that has won many competitions, and Emma has devoted a lot of time and hard work to Project 15. Her positivity shines through each and every day. She is willing to help any student that is struggling in class and is an outstanding tutor to these students. She rises to the occasion each and every day! Casteel High Senior Highlights

Casteel High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Cindy Furukawa will graduate summa cum laude and attend Barrett, the Honors College at ASU to study aerospace engineering on a Presidents scholarship. Cindy was part of the Academic Decathlon team for three years and served as its VP and a mentor to younger students. As a member of Casteel's Academic Decathlon, she has earned awards in speech, art and music, and a $500 scholarship. Cindy has also shined in the arts with awards in orchestra and as a founding member and officer of K-Crew, the Casteel K-pop dance club. Cindy was 1st chair violin in Concert Orchestra as a Freshman and a member of Chamber Orchestra for three years. Active in extracurriculars, she has used her bilingual talents to volunteer in nursing homes in Japan and as a tutor for those learning Japanese. Embodying the Casteel traits of Courage, Character and Commitment, there is no doubt that Cindy will be a leader in blossoming legacy of the Casteel Colts Class of 2021. Casteel High Senior Highlights

Casteel High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Mason Salonic has shined academically in the classroom and athletically on the field during his time at Casteel. He will be graduating summa cum laude, AP Scholar with Distinction, and as a member of National Honor Society to attend Cornell University in the fall. Mason's athletic accomplishments in soccer and Track & Field are just as impressive. Soccer, 9th Grade: All Region 2nd Team; 10th Grade: All Region 1st Team, All CUSD 1st Team, All State 5A Conference 2nd Team; 11th Grade: All Region 1st Team, All CUSD Honorable Mention, All State 5A Conference 2nd Team; 12th Grade: All Region 1st Team, All CUSD 1st Team, All State 5A Conference 1st Team. Track & Field, 10th Grade: 4x400 State Champions at 5A Conference. Casteel High Senior Highlights

Casteel High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Chloe Kienholz is an outstanding student and has a GPA greater than 4.0. While maintaining her academics, she has participated in softball at Casteel, devoting many hours to softball and her academics with great success. She always goes above and beyond when it comes to her academics, and her dedication and hard work have paid off. She will be attending an out of state university in the Fall. Casteel High Senior Highlights

Casteel High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Bryce Askew has had a long and award-winning association with Casteel's Academic Decathlon program. He credits "AcDec" with helping improve both his study skills and presentation abilities. Bryce earned a $500 scholarship for his four years on the Academic Decathlon team, was a founding member of the team, served as vice president and president, won numerous medals in essay, speech and social science, and often led the team in scoring. Bryce was also active in Model UN, French Club, National French Honor Society and National Honor Society. Bryce is graduating summa cum laude and will be attending ASU on the Presidential Scholarship to major in chemistry. Additionally, he intends to continue to be be a Starbucks barista as providing quality customer service improves peoples' day -- one grande at a time! Casteel High Senior Highlights

Casteel High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Reinah McNeil has been an exemplary student. Inspired by progressive muckrakers Ida B. Wells and media mogal Cathy Hughes, Reinah volunteered at NPR's Spot 127 over the years. Learning journalistic skills, Reinah has now been tasked with teaching and guiding younger students in proper broadcasting skills. Spending time in Japan when she was younger, she plans to combine her love of international news with her broadcasting skills. At Casteel, Reinah exceled in honors and AP courses while managing a busy schedule with extracurricular activities. She has taken leadership roles in several clubs on campus and has been committed to serving her community at her church and other nonprofit organizations. Reinah participated in an internship program as a Production Assistant in a youth media program that teaches students storytelling skills by creating podcasts, videos and digital photography. After high school, Reinah plans to pursue a degree in journalism and digital media. Casteel High Senior Highlights

Casteel High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Genevieve Moore credits her participation in Symphonic Band with helping shape the person she is today. She was also actively involved in both the Chinese Club and Book Club. As a founding Book Club member, Genevieve discovered her guiding quote, "To the stars who listen -- and the dreams that are answered" by Sarah J. Maas. Lettering academically at Casteel, Genevieve plans to finish her Associate of General Studies (AGS) degree at Chandler-Gilbert Community College and then transfer to Northern Arizona University. Genevieve will be missed on campus, but her Casteel family is excited for her future. Casteel High Senior Highlights

Casteel High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Rylee Armstrong has excelled in academics, volleyball and singing throughout her high school years. She is an amazingly respectful and well-liked student, and gives 100% to her studies. She received a scholarship to the University of Arizona for volleyball. In addition, she is invited to sing the National Anthem at various venues due to her amazing voice, including Diamondback games. She will be pursuing her singing career while attending college in the fall. Casteel High Senior Highlights

Casteel High (2020-2021)

SENIOR HIGHLIGHT:  Myka Williams participated in a multitude of clubs including Yearbook, Culinary, Art, and Biomedical Sciences Club, and was a member of National Honor Society. She maintained an exemplary GPA while taking five AP classes her senior year and working regularly at American Eagle. Myka is an enthusiastic learner and kind to everyone around her. In the fall, Myka will attend Barrett, the Honors College at Arizona State University to major in biology with an emphasis in biomedical sciences. Myka has been a peer mentor and is an exceptional example for our junior high students. Myka is positive, supportive, encouraging, considerate, eloquent, and a dozen more amazing attributes! The time that Myka gives her mentee will stay with them forever and help them strive to higher goals! Casteel High Senior Highlights

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