Hannah Markell. Photos: Chris Emeott
In this changing world, a community finds strength in the differences of individuals. The unique attributes and passions of each person add dimension and beauty to the whole, and there is no better place to observe this than in the halls of area high schools, where young people discover their identity and place in the world.
Each year, White Bear Lake area schools nominate outstanding students to be highlighted in our Senior Spotlight. We select just three incoming seniors to be included in our pages—a difficult task as every student is incredible in their own right. This year’s students have balanced academics and athletics, built up their community through service and leadership and pushed through challenges in the pursuit of their goals. We are thrilled to highlight these young voices from our community.
Hannah Markell
Liberty Classical Academy
“Hannah Markell is a dedicated and respected [student] at Liberty Classical Academy. She exemplifies perseverance and determination both in and out of the classroom. As a varsity volleyball player, she demonstrates incredible commitment, skill and sportsmanship, balancing the rigorous demands of athletics with her academic responsibilities. Despite having a learning difference, Hannah never allows it to hinder her progress or define her. She is consistently putting in extra effort to overcome obstacles and achieve her goals. This past school year, Hannah faced an unexpected medical injury, which tested her mental and physical strength. Rather than being discouraged, she used the experience as an opportunity for growth and relied fully and faithfully on the Lord. Her positive attitude and hard work have made her a role model to others, as she demonstrates how to handle adversity with grace and determination.” —Emily Thomson, learning specialist director
What is an achievement or experience from your high school career that you are most proud of?
My junior thesis. At Liberty, the high school years are referred to as “The Rhetoric Phase.” Rhetoric is the science and art of reasoning well, and at Liberty, we complete a junior and senior thesis. This means that, over a full semester, we write a 10–12 [page] paper, then present and defend it in front of our peers, parents and judges. This is an accomplishment I value as it helped me learn how to analyze and articulate a position I believe in: a skill I will need my whole life.
What is something that your peers might not know about you?
Although I go to a small school, and we know lots about one another, my peers might not know that my plan is to go into the sports industry. I have always been passionate about sports and the amazing stories that come from teams and competition. I would love to be part of that world whether that be sports management, sports law or eventually becoming an agent.
What person in history would you most like to speak at your graduation ceremony?
Herb Brooks
What is your favorite childhood book?
Fancy Nancy by Jane O’Connor, illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser
Describe your future in three words.
Faithful. Ambitious. Accomplished.
What song should be used as the soundtrack to your high school career?
I love music, but no one song could sum all this up.
What is your favorite school lunch?
I enjoy packing myself a salad from home
What sports, clubs and extracurricular activities are you involved in?
- Club Volleyball
- Liberty Student Ambassador
- Varsity Golf
- Varsity Volleyball
- Volunteer at Liberty’s summer youth volleyball camp
Grace Scott
White Bear Lake Area High School
“Grace Scott exemplifies the core values of White Bear Lake Area High School: relationships, ownership, awareness and respect … Grace’s passion for service and inclusion has made a lasting impact on both our school and community, creating a more positive, connected environment. Grace is working to establish a chapter of Glamour Girls, a club dedicated to empowering women in nursing homes, showcasing her commitment to service and her desire to make a difference. She is the kind of student who inspires others—someone you want to learn from, listen to and collaborate with. Most notably, Grace approaches her role at school and in the community with a deep sense of selflessness. Grace is our true example of leadership and character.” —Grace White, school counselor
“Grace’s presence at White Bear Lake Area High School is felt daily as she helps to nurture the core values that create a positive culture. When thinking of future students who will attend this school, she stands as a role model. It is an honor to know and teach Grace.” —Alex Dahm, business educator
What is an achievement or experience from your high school career that you are most proud of?
My biggest experience that I will forever be proud of is being the first class to run and control White Bear’s apparel store [ROAR store] inside the school this year! My favorite memory is being one of four students to team up with our apparel representative and create merch that we thought students would love.
What is something that your peers might not know about you?
Most people don’t usually know I’m not from Minnesota! I was actually born in Charlotte, North Carolina. Me and my family moved up to Minnesota when I was around 7 years old!
What person in history would you most like to speak at your graduation ceremony?
Lauryn Hill
What is your favorite childhood book?
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
Describe your future in three words.
Successful. Fulfilling. Inspiring.
What song should be used as the soundtrack to your high school career?
We are Young by fun
What is your favorite school lunch?
Pizza Crunchers
What sports, clubs and extracurricular activities are you involved in?
- DECA
- Glamour Gals, founder
- Homecoming Committee
- Link Crew
- National Honor Society
- Varsity Track and Field (9, 10)
- Women’s Health Empowerment Club
Aidan Carlson
Mahtomedi High School
“Aidan Carlson is a committed and talented student-athlete at Mahtomedi High School. With a strong work ethic and a passion for improving, Aidan has excelled in the classroom and on the wrestling mat. In addition, he has been a servant leader in both areas. As a captain on the wrestling team, he has pushed his teammates to improve and also helped coach our K–6 wrestlers. In the AP Calculus classroom, Aidan is the first to offer help to his classmates. He does all of this while still performing at the highest level.” —Matt Oswald, AP calculus math teacher and head wrestling coach
“Aidan has a strong work ethic and holds himself accountable in and outside of class. He also has an eye for detail and is often the first student in class to catch mistakes or discrepancies during class.” —James Didier, AP chemistry teacher
What is an achievement or experience from your high school career that you are most proud of?
The thing I’m most proud of in my high school career is always trying to learn more and push myself to the best of my ability in everything I do. Usually, this is regarding my academics—taking a large variety of classes in all subjects. However, this is also regarding my athletics and doing everything I can to be the best athlete that I can be whenever competition arrives. Finally, I’m committed to personal growth … and how I can change to make myself the best person possible.
What is something that your peers might not know about you?
Although I am usually busy wrestling, dedicating a significant amount of time and energy to the sport, I always find great joy in spending time in nature. Being outdoors allows me to relax and appreciate the beauty that the Earth has to offer. Whether it’s hiking through a forest, swimming in a lake, fishing in a quiet stream or even just mowing the lawn and feeling the fresh air, I am always down to spend time in the environment around us.
What person in history would you most like to speak at your graduation ceremony?
Robin Williams
What is your favorite childhood book?
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
Describe your future in three words.
Intriguing. Abundant. Limitless.
What song should be used as the soundtrack to your high school career?
Tonight Tonight by Hot Chelle Rae
What is your favorite school lunch?
Walking tacos
What sports, clubs and extracurricular activities are you involved in?
- Fellowship of Christian Athletes
- National Honor Society
- Rotary Scholar Award recipient
- Tea Club
- Varsity Track and Field, Captain
- Varsity Wrestling, Captain (two-time national qualifier with 130 career wins)
- Zephyr Press
