April 2020 Students of the Month

Delaney Zimmerman
Freshman
CITGO Innovation Academy
Delaney Zimmerman was selected as the Freshman Student of the Month by the CITGO Innovation Academy. Delaney is a high honor roll student whose favorite classes include Biology Honors and Creative Writing. She was a member of the girls’ swimming program in the fall, is part of the Drama Club, and joined the cast and crew for the spring musical. Delaney is described as a voracious reader who enjoys a variety of genres and doesn’t shy away from trying new materials. She spends time outside of class in the CITGO Innovation Academy, and as a discerning reader, freely shares her opinions with staff. Delaney is interested in becoming a writer or scientist, with the possibility of becoming a zoo veterinarian. In her free time, she enjoys reading, writing her own books and poems, and volunteering at Brookfield Zoo.

Aleksa Kirkus
Sophomore
Social Studies
The Social Studies Department tabbed Aleksa Kirkus as the Sophomore Student of the Month. A high honor roll performer, Aleksa lists AP World History and English II Honors as her favorite courses. She is involved in many extra-curricular activities, including Speech Team, Performance in the Round, Science Club and Model United Nations. She also spearheaded a multi-school effort to write legislation concerning conservation efforts in the State of Illinois. Aleksa’s leadership skills allow her to listen to others first before coordinating how to complete a task, and she demonstrates compassion for the world around her. With a special interest in human rights and women’s rights, she hopes to help individuals globally in the future. Aleksa serves as a camp counselor and enjoys painting, music, hiking and watching movies.

Ryan Bernabei
Junior
Industrial Technology
Ryan Bernabei was named the Junior Student of the Month by the Industrial Technology Department. Ryan is a high honor roll student who lists Forensic Science, P.E. Leadership and American Sign Language III among his favorite classes. A National Honor Society inductee, Ryan is a member of the boys’ track and field team who competes in sprints, the long jump and pole vault. He has done excellent work in his Woods II class, taking the time to research on his own and obtaining skills that few in the class learn, all while serving as a resource for his classmates. In the future, Ryan plans on participating in an Army ROTC program in college, joining the Army after completing school, and ultimately pursuing a career in law enforcement. He has worked in several part-time jobs and enjoys driving and CrossFit.

Jake Swalec
Senior
English
The English Department picked Jake Swalec as the Senior Student of the Month. A high honor roll recipient, Jake most enjoys Advanced CAD III Honors. He served as a Link Crew leader this year, and also is a member of the Technology Student Association. His teachers applaud his work ethic, as he never misses a reading assignment and is willing to lead class discussions without dominating the conversation. His classmates and instructors benefit from his optimistic demeanor, and his encouragement helps make his peers better. He holds himself to very high standards, and consistently models respect and leadership. Jake plans on studying chemical engineering at the University of Illinois-Chicago. He works at Cog Hill and enjoys playing sports recreationally.