A press release from School District 300:

Edward Jones Student of the Semester—Senior, Mitch Materna

Senior at Jacobs High School, Mitch Materna, was nominated by his sociology teacher, Marce Kersten, for the Edward Jones student of the semester award. Below is part of Marce’s nomination letter about Mitch. Here’s what Ms. Kersten has to say about Matera:

“Mitch Materna is one of the most well rounded students (definitely in the top two) that I have had in the past 21 years.

“He has been able to successfully balance multiple AP courses, play varsity sports and contribute to his community.

English teacher Marce Kersten and Mitch-Materna, with Edward Jones Student of the Semester Award.

“He recently participated in EXPLORE Night by reflecting and writing down his best tips for surviving AP courses.

“He also spoke to 8th graders and their parents about why they should consider taking an AP course and that it can be ‘overwhelming,’ but they can survive.

“He is respected by his peers and the staff at Jacobs.

“Mitch is the kind of kid that comes around every once in a while.

“After having him in class, I continue to have faith in the future generation, and I am a better human being for having known him.”