March HMS Student of the Month

6th grade: Azriel Shapiro

Honorable- Azriel has gone above and beyond to help my student with anything as well as others. He is a good friend to many and he always has a smile on his face. He lights up my child’s mood and truly makes her feel included and special! Committed- Watching azriel do school work has shown me just how committed he is to what he is learning. When he has questions he makes sure to ask them and truly tries to put his best foot forward in every subject!  He is very kind. Not just to my student but to all around him. He is very respectful to staff and is always willing to help out with any small task they can give him. But most importantly he can recognize when he is getting overwhelmed and communicates that very well. This makes it easy as staff can be overwhelmed! 

Azriel is a kind, compassionate, and genuine student. In spite of transferring to HMS and being "the new kid," he has had a truly terrific year, thriving academically, socially, and behaviorally.  Azriel consistently demonstrates the COMMITTED trait. He is a hard-working, inquisitive student who enjoys learning, actively participates in class, and readily asks for help when needed. He has A’s in all of his classes which shows that he is committed to being a good student.  He makes excellent daily decisions—arriving on time, completing assignments, following classroom rules, and exemplifying our DUTCH characteristics. Furthermore, he models respect toward his teachers and expects the same standard from his peers.  Another way that Azriel shows the committed trait is by being involved in 2 after school clubs, Robotics and Chess Club.  Finally, Azriel beautifully embraces the DIVERSE trait. He is universally kind and respectful to teachers, classmates, and school staff alike. He is exceptionally friendly, always ready to greet others with a huge smile and ask about their day. He is inclusive within his friendships and will help others when he notices that they need help whatever it may beAzriel creates a positive and caring culture simply by being himself, making him exactly the kind of student we want and need at Holland Middle School.

7th grade: Hazel Sterken

I am proud to nominate Hazel Sterken for student of the month. She consistently demonstrates the true meaning of diversity and inclusion in our classroom. Hazel has partnered with a student who often needs extra support. Hazel models kindness and empathy every day. She helps build a classroom community where differences are not just accepted but are celebrated.  Hazel is polite, kind, smart and an all around amazing student!

8th grade: Jack Schulte

Jack Schulte consistently demonstrates what it means to be Committed and Honorable. He shows up each day ready to learn, gives his best effort with his work, and treats classmates and teachers with genuine respect. Whether working independently or in a group, Jack models integrity—always doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. His positive attitude and willingness to help others make the classroom a great place to learn. What truly sets Jack apart is his quiet leadership and consistency. He doesn’t seek attention or recognition but makes a difference through small, meaningful actions. His character and reliability makes him a role model for peers and a student any teacher would be proud to have in class.

Jack Schulte is typically interacting positively and well regulated with his peers and teacher. He will help other students, help the teacher, and be friendly with everyone.  Jack is very aware and recognizes people's needs and will always offer to help. He is a great student to have in class and has made my start at HMS better.

*It was also noted that Jack is working with a school staff on organizing something to promote and support men’s mental health awareness.