The essence of our Senior of the Week can be captured by the words of the poet Rabindranath Tagore. He wrote, “I slept and dreamt that life was joy. I awoke and saw that life was service. I acted and behold, service was joy.” For her countless contributions to building and maintaining the positive atmosphere of our school, Liz Rick has been awarded the Senior of the Week honor. In speaking with staff about Liz, the common theme is that she is always positive and happy. She has worked hard to build a sense of community in our hallways, serving as a mentor for freshmen warm-up activities and coordinating a flash mob for the Winter Pep Assembly to spread an anti-bullying message. In addition to serving as the editor for the yearbook, Liz is involved in Poms, Student Council and NHS. Thank you for all you’ve done for our Greendale High School community, Liz, and all the best in continuing to spread joy in your future endeavors!

“Liz always had a positive attitude in class. She really enjoyed learning Spanish and reading the short stories, especially the ones about ‘arañas’!” – Ms. Bernal

“Liz has her act together! She manages to be in just about everything around GHS with a big smile on her face. She is willing to take a stand for what is right and to speak her mind when others are out of line or need another point-of-view to consider. She has a big heart and is filled with compassion for others.” – Ms. Hulett

“Liz is great to have in class because she is always very positive and energetic.” – Mr. Jagodzinski

“Liz Rick is a very diligent, hard-working student. She not only is a great student, but a great person, demonstrating great character. She is an asset to the class.” – Ms. Kruschke Alfonso

“I have had the pleasure of working with Liz during her community service efforts at GHS. I have found that she is a strong student that exemplifies the following characteristics: excellence, leadership and service. Liz is very willing to get involved and serve. She is a student leader that has helped with student transition events, coordinated efforts to raise money for brain cancer and initiated the recent flash mob to bring awareness to bullying at the winter pep rally.” – Ms. Petersen

“It has been a treat to have Liz in class as a freshman and now as a senior. She has a tireless work ethic and positive attitude that will assure her success in life.” – Ms. Rios

“This honor is so well-deserved as Elizabeth is a very kind, loyal and trustworthy young woman. Her drive and dedication are to be desired and there's no doubt in my mind that one day, we all will be calling her Dr. Rick. Congratulations Elizabeth!” – Ms. Rutkiewicz

It is exam time and students are furiously trying to review and study every concept and bit of knowledge they’ve learned over the course of the semester. During this busy time, it is good to pause, step back and reflect on the true goal of education. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education.” Given that definition, Haley Unger is one of our most successful students. For her combination of smarts, kindness and character, Haley has been selected as our Senior of the Week. She has maintained a 4.0 grade point average during her years here and not just in cupcake courses. Her schedule has always been full of AP and Honors classes. Yet, Haley still finds time to participate in a number of co-curricular activities, including cross-country, track and field, student council and National Honor Society. From her teachers’ comments about her, it is obvious that she is a bright, outgoing and generous individual who will continue to make a difference in the world around her. Thank you for all you’ve done for our Greendale High School community, Haley, and all the best in your future endeavors!

“Haley is a very well-mannered, hard-working student who helps bring out the best in those she works with.” – Mr. Kozicke

“Excellent leader in Cross Country and Track and Field. Haley gives every ounce of effort within her and this quality carries over onto her teammates. Haley understands the concept of team and knows her success will benefit the team. She is the type of student-athlete coaches wish they had one hundred of.” – Coach Binnebose

“Haley is an extraordinary young lady whose focus is to succeed in everything she does. She even dreams in Spanish! That's amazing!” – Ms. Bernal

“Haley Unger is a true scholar. She is an excellent student, but more importantly she is a very kind individual who knows how to work with others. She is a true pleasure to have in class. She is a great Spanish student, one who always improves her skills and works hard. If I need help with something, Haley is there. For example, she gave up her study hall to help me record my Spanish 1 students. She is just that kind of student: willing to help others, very humble and very smart!” – Ms. Kruschke Alfonso

“When people ask why I went into teaching, I wish I could just say ‘Haley Unger’ and all would be crystal. What strikes me at this moment is that when I consider what qualities I most want to note about Haley, all I envision is her smile. Has anyone wondered how many hours Haley Unger spends in extracurricular activities, doing homework, and studying? I just did and I marvel at the fact that she does this and still brings a fiercely positive attitude and cerebral focus to my seventh hour class. I have a sneaking suspicion that teacher statements about Haley will be lengthy, so I will end mine with a few rhetorical questions. What is it like to live with that beautiful, glorious mind? How heavy does a heart of gold feel in one’s chest? How hard was it to sit through classes you could have taught? Haley- you are one of the unforgettable and I wish you a life that completely satisfies both your mind and heart.” – Ms. Schley

Galileo Galilei. Walt Whitman. Willy Wonka. All, with their alliterative names, changed the world in meaningful ways. Be prepared to add Glenna Gransee to that list. For her many accomplishments in and out of school, Glenna has been selected as our Senior of the Week. She is successful in the classroom, earning high marks in a number of challenging courses. In addition, Glenna is involved in a variety of activities, including Creative Writing Club and National Honor Society. She was also the co-section leader for The Pit in our State Champion Marching Band. From her teachers’ comments about her, it is obvious that Glenna is a bright, insightful and humorous individual who will accomplish great things in her life. Thank you for all you’ve done for our Greendale High School community, Glenna, and all the best in your future endeavors!

“Glenna helps make sixth hour AP Bio a great class by the thoughtful questions she asks and the effort she puts forth daily. I keep encouraging her to go into a science field; we'll see what she decides!” – Ms. Rios

“Glenna is a superior student. She is hard working, reflective and self-directed. She is also really funny and is always willing to contribute her insight in class discussion.” – Mr. Hubing

“Glenna is amazing. She has a quiet presence that is witty, empathetic and inquisitive. She is one of the most genuine people I've met. She wants to learn and enjoy life, so she asks the how and why questions. Her interests are varied, her talents many and she finds a way to balance her academic responsibilities along with a busy schedule of activities.” – Ms. Hulett

“Glenna is a fantastic student. My favorite thing about Glenna is her sincere intellectual curiosity. She thinks about class concepts in her regular life and then comes into class with insightful questions. Glenna has an independent mind and thinks critically about the world around her. I trust that in her future she will not accept the status quo - she will think and challenge anything that requires change.” – Ms. Kingma-Kiekhofer

“I think I taught Glenna once? Or she taught me? One of those. What will Greendale High School be like without Glenna Gransee? If there is a French emergency, we are in much greater peril. If sardonic comments become a commodity, we have lost our richest source. I will miss you profoundly and thank you for the many, many laughs. I look forward to your witty, esoteric, yet somehow relevant articles that will intermittently pop up in sophisticated journals. I can say: “I taught that Glenna Gransee. I think.” – Ms. Schley

With the New Year approaching, many people will look to create meaningful resolutions for 2012. Some will look to be a little kinder to those around them, others will decide to try a new activity and some may decide to get involved in working with youth. If one wanted to put all of those goals on their resolution list, they could simply write, “I would like to be more like Mason Johnson.” For his consistent drive to do his best and make the people around him better and happier, Mason has been selected as our Senior of the Week. While focusing on being a successful student, he also takes part in a number of different activities at school, including volleyball and basketball. From his teachers’ comments about him, it is obvious that Mason is a genuinely kind, hard-working and thoughtful leader who will accomplish great things in his life. Thank you for all you’ve done for our Greendale High School community, Mason, and all the best in your future endeavors!

“Mason is a great guy; hard working, honest, personable and very appreciative of his teachers. It has been a pleasure having him in class and I know he will excel in college. Way to go Mason, keep up the great work!” – Ms. Rios

“Mason is a hard working student and has earned well deserved recognition for his work in the classroom, but I have enjoyed watching his work ethic and his growth as a leader translate onto the athletic courts as well. During his time at Greendale High School Mason has demonstrated that hard work and a positive attitude can propel both an individual and a team to a higher level. Congratulations to Mason Johnson for being selected as the Greendale High School Senior of the Week.” – Mr. Hansen

“Mason is a class act and has been very generous with donating his time to help youth basketball players in Greendale at summer basketball camp. While coaching at camp, Mason has established many relationships with the campers and when they come to the games they know who he is. Through his efforts in camp and with the varsity team Mason is a role model to the youth in Greendale.” – Coach Fiet

“Mason Johnson is one of the kindest, most hard-working and conscientious students I've ever had. He truly is a class act who always shows kindness and respect to peers and adults, alike! Mason has a wonderful future ahead of him. He will be successful in whatever he decides to do with his life. He is a good person with a good heart who will do great things for others. It has been an honor and a pleasure knowing Mason! I'm very glad to have been a small part of his life!” – Sra. Schmidt

“Mason is one of those kids that is dependable and mature beyond his years. He is known for his polite nature as well as his constant smile. He is just a fantastic young man!” – Ms. Matlock

Having a December 16 birthday presents a number of challenges. Those born on this date must learn how to deal with being too kind, too caring, too intelligent, too funny, too good-looking and too humble. It really is a problem. Yet, Katie Gerls, a fellow member of the distinguished December 16 upper crust, has learned how to masterfully navigate the world around her despite these challenges. For her positive outlook in all she does and her generous personality, Katie has been selected as our Senior of the Week. She is involved in a number of activities at school, including working on the yearbook and being an accomplished flautist (again, with a December 16 birthday, one can only assume she is world-class) in the State Champion Marching Band. Hers is a much sought-after voice when it comes to discussing school issues, and this year, she helped produce an Oscar-worthy short film about proper dance etiquette for the Homecoming celebration. From her teachers’ comments about her, it is obvious that Katie is an enthusiastic, giving and outgoing individual who will accomplish whatever she chooses to in her life. Thank you for all you’ve done for our Greendale High School community, Katie, and all the best in your future endeavors…and have a great birthday on Friday!

“Katie is amazing! This semester, I have her for English and yearbook, back to back, which is a good way to start the morning. She is always positive and in a happy mood, which is so nice compared to other teenagers. This is her first year in yearbook, and she is doing an amazing job. Not only has she taken on pages that no one else wants because they are so difficult, but she takes on the challenges with a smile and a can-do attitude. If all students were like Katie, the world would be a better place! Can she stay at GHS forever?” – Ms. Wagner

“Katie is a great leader in my Foods class. She's always willing to help out and she's very courteous of others. It's evident that Katie will be very successful in her future.” – Ms. Slaasted

“Katie Gerls is a great student leader. When she comes to the table around a school issue, she is thoughtful, well-versed in the topic, empathetic and not selfish in her motives and actions, AND simply fun to work with. I know those qualities will serve her well in whatever she chooses to tackle in her obviously bright future.” – Mr. Lodes

The first time I ever met Kelly Korek, she was giving a kind old gentleman grief for eating pistachios and reading the paper. Doesn’t really seem like Senior of the Week material. This poor guy was just enjoying an economical, energy-boosting snack, while keeping up with news from the entertainment industry, and here was Kelly running him through the wringer for it. For the next couple of hours, Kelly kept the audience laughing as she brought the house down with her performance as May in the GHS production of “Once in a Lifetime.” For her dedicated efforts to making herself and her school the best they can be, Kelly has been selected as our Senior of the Week. Besides her work in the theatre program, Kelly is an integral leader in the GHS Student Council. She also excels academically in a schedule that contains a number of challenging courses. From her teachers’ comments about her, it is obvious that Kelly is an enthusiastic, driven and generous individual who recognizes and embraces the value in making the world around her a better place. Thank you for all you’ve done for our Greendale High School community, Kelly, and all the best in your future endeavors!

“Kelly is a very mature young lady who respects everyone around her. She thrives to succeed and has amazing skills in Spanish!” – Ms. Bernal

“Kelly is an enthusiastic, cheerful participant in everything she attempts. She is always fully engaged in whatever we may be working on in the theatre department, bringing to it a consistently positive attitude and superior competence and dedication. Her peers have recognized this, last year electing her to co-chair the student group that supports GHS Theatre. Kelly has played both major and minor roles in GHS Theatre productions, participating in every Fall Play and Spring Musical every year of her high school career.” – Mr. Christiansen

“Kelly is an all-around talented, intelligent and genuinely kind person. From sports, to academics, to the arts, (to babysitting), she is a star. I wish her all of the best now and in the future!” – Ms. Siegrist-Ragan

“Kelly is a student that has left a lasting impression on me, and working with her on Council has been a true joy. She exhibits a positive outlook and professionalism that is very rare in high school students. Her work is exemplary and her follow-through and enthusiasm are unmatched. In addition, she continued to bring in ideas for Council and worked to make her ideas a reality, making this year’s Council the best it has ever been.” – Ms. Wagner

“Kelly is a talented student and quiet leader who always approaches difficult tasks with determination and a positive attitude. She is also incredibly thoughtful and has, on multiple occasions, brightened my day with an unexpected act of kindness.” – Ms. Senn

“Kelly is, by far, one of the greatest students I have ever worked with. Her leadership abilities are unsurpassed and her character is amazing. I truly enjoy working with her and I am confident she will be highly successful in her future. She highly deserves this recognition. She is an AWESOME kid!” – Ms. Matlock

On May 8, 1970, New York Knicks basketball star Willis Reed, nursing a torn muscle in his right leg, hobbled onto the court at Madison Square Garden to deafening applause from New York fans. He scored the first four points of the game for the Knicks, willing them on to a Game 7 victory and their first NBA title. A legendary performance. In much the same fashion, Matt Grieshop pulled himself off the floor after suffering an ankle injury in practice the night before the WIAA Boys Volleyball Tournament began. To deafening encouragement from Greendale High School fans, Matt willed his team on to victory after victory and eventually its second straight sectional finals appearance. Another legendary performance. For his commitment to his team and an inspirational performance, Matt has been selected as our Senior of the Week. More important than his athletic achievements, Matt’s participation in a number of activities, including serving on the executive board of the National Honor Society and as a chemistry aide for younger students, shows his true personality. From his teachers’ comments about him, it is obvious that Matt is an insightful, inquisitive and caring individual who will continue to accomplish great things. Thank you for all you’ve done for our Greendale High School community, Matt, and all the best in your future endeavors!

“Matt is an intellectual young man that can make even the most educated adults feel inferior, BUT he would never make anyone feel they are less than him. He is a genuinely nice person and deserves this recognition.” – Ms. Matlock

“Matt is a very talented student who strives to see the connections between what he is learning and the real world applications such learning can have. He is bright, cheerful and an all around great person to have in class.” – Mr. Wilkinson

“Matt Grieshop has an excellent, inquiring mind. His passion for learning is evident in all that he does.” – Ms. Siegrist-Ragan

“Matt keeps me on my toes with his questions! He thinks about biological concepts deeply, which is what is required of anyone going into a science field. Matt will make a great scientist!” – Ms. Rios

“Not only is Matt a gifted thinker, musician and athlete, but he is always willing to share his talents with others in a very unassuming and humble way. This semester, he is serving as my chemistry lab aide. I have appreciated his willingness to take on whatever challenges that I have ready for him and have valued the help that he has been able to give to beginning chemistry students.” – Ms. Senn

Like seeing a shooting star, it is an extremely rare occurrence to find a person who so many people are confident is going to change the world. Yet, we have one in our midst here at Greendale High School. For her phenomenal accomplishments already and the promise she holds for the future, Sami Kosarzycki has been selected as our Senior of the Week. She is a successful, hard-working student who shines in all of her classes. She balances this academic success by participating in a number of activities here at school, including orchestra (she is a member of the GHS String Quartet and plays in the Pit for musicals), Philosophy Club and National Honor Society. From her teachers’ comments about her, it is obvious that Sami is an insightful, kind and well-rounded individual who will make the world a better place. Thank you for all you’ve done for our Greendale High School community, Sami, and all the best in your future endeavors!

“Sami is a fantastic student and role model in Orchestra. Not only is she an accomplished musician, she also demonstrates a positive attitude and dedication to her work. As section leader for the violins, Sami has helped improve the overall musicianship of the section. She is a part of the GHS String Quartet, and has given up personal time to rehearse and perform. I thoroughly enjoy having her in Orchestra! Congrats Sami!” – Ms. Brody

“Sami is amazing - I have only recently found out how much she does and I'm in awe. She is a phenomenal student, musician, athlete and an all around fabulous woman. She walks around with a genuine care for others and lives her life to the fullest with no complaints or excuses. I can't wait to hear what path she chooses after GHS!” – Ms. Hulett

“Samantha is one of the most thoughtful students I know. Her summer assignment film first introduced me to the intelligent, gentle-spirited person who continues and will continue to make a meaningful impact upon the world.” – Ms. Siegrist-Ragan

“Sami is joy to have in French class. She is the only French 5 student grouped in with a bunch of 3/4 students. She is a leader for her peers and leads by example in her dedication to her studies and her behavior in class. Earlier in the semester, Sami completed a very well produced podcast where she talked about the nice memories she has of spending time at her grandparents’ house with her brother when they were small children. She did an excellent job on this assignment, tackling both the French and the technology with grace.” – Ms. New

There is a famous saying that goes, “In an eggs and ham breakfast, the chicken is involved, but the pig is committed.” David Heinen is the ham in our Greendale High School breakfast. He is committed to excellence in his academics, his activities, and his school. For his unparalleled commitment to all things GHS, David has been selected as our Senior of the Week. David excels academically in a course load that includes five AP classes, and his voice is always a valuable piece when it comes to decisions that affect the student body. He is involved on a leadership level in a number of activities, including National Honor Society and the state champion marching band. Based on his commitment to excellence, it safe to say that David will continue to accomplish great things in the coming years. Thank you for all you’ve done for our Greendale High School community, David, and all the best in your future endeavors!

“I really enjoy having David Heinen in AP Bio. He sits completely focused taking in everything that is discussed. At times, when I fumble verbally, he will contribute in a respectful manner and rephrase my statements very eloquently; I admire and appreciate this skill. David has limitless potential!” – Ms. Rios

“David is inquisitive, smart, and truly interested in learning. His mind is always asking the ‘how does it work’ and ‘why does it work’ types of questions and sharing his passion for ideas with others. He's got a bright future ahead of him!” – Ms. Hulett

“David Heinen is one of the most personable, driven students I have known in the last few years. He holds high expectations and constantly tries to improve himself as a student and a person. And he's fun and personable. With his work ethic and personality, great things are in store for this young man.” – Mr. Lodes

“David Heinen is an avid reader and gifted writer who provides rich contributions to our AP English Literature and Composition class.” – Ms. Siegrist-Ragan

“David is an outstanding musician and student leader. He is self-motivated, and always wants the best for those around him. Underclassmen look up to him, and with good reason. David leads by example, and his work ethic will take him far.” – Mr. Reifenberg

“David is a student who goes above and beyond what is expected, not because he wants to impress his peers or his teachers, but because he truly wants to learn.” – Ms. Bernal

If a coach or activity supervisor is looking to guarantee their team or club a trip to state, they need do little more than simply ask Ruth Jensen to join their squad. Doubles tennis? She and her partner (Senior of the Week alumnus Mara Kuzmanovic) finished in the top sixteen at State. Marching band? Ruth and the rest of the group just tacked on a seventh straight State Championship. For her consistent drive to succeed, Ruth Jensen has been selected as our Senior of the Week. In addition to her aforementioned success outside the classroom walls, Ruth is also a kind and outgoing leader whose work ethic and bright personality have certainly made a positive impression on her teachers and classmates. Based on her track record, she will continue to accomplish great things in the coming years. Thank you for all you’ve done for our Greendale High School community, Ruth, and all the best in your future endeavors!

“Ruth Jensen is a delight to have in class. She not only does well academically, but brings her enjoyable sense of humor and personality to everything she does. I was touched when she and Andy gave me a ‘parting gift’ at the end of the year filled with funny teacher survival items like a huge 2L of Coke and chocolate. I see a bright and shining future for her and will miss seeing her here at school!” -- Ms. Schulteis

“Ruth is a hardworking, no-excuses, delightful student. She manages to smile even when she's stressed and tired. She tries her best no matter what task she is given, and she's a great role model for the younger women in the building.” -- Ms. Hulett

“Ruth is a conscientious student. She demonstrates a sense of leadership and calm in my classroom. She consistently has thoughtful questions and insightful comments. She is an asset to my class.” -- Ms. Kingma-Kiekhofer

One would be hard-pressed to find someone who enjoys the journey of learning more than Michael Gableman. In all of his classes, as his classmates furiously scribble notes or navigate their way through a difficult problem, Michael works with a noticeable smile, appreciating the challenge and enjoying the ride. Yet, one might be even more hard-pressed to find someone as kind as Michael Gableman. His true character and thirst for knowledge are best summed up through a quote from Rousseau: “What wisdom can you find that is greater than kindness?” From this perspective, there is nobody wiser than Michael. He is unfailingly polite and positive in his interactions with those around him, brightening the days of those fortunate enough to see him in class or pass him in the hallways. For his love of learning and unparalleled kindness to those around him, Michael Gableman has been selected as our Senior of the Week, and based on what his teachers have said about him, we will be hearing much more about him for years to come. Thank you for all you’ve done for our Greendale High School community, Michael, and all the best in your future endeavors!

“Michael is a gifted student who always has a warm smile and inquisitive look in his eye. He can design and build just about anything that physics can throw at him and I look forward to him perfecting time travel, curing cancer or anything else that Michael puts his mind to.” – Mr. Wilkinson

“I can’t help but smile when I see Michael smile. He is spot on with enthusiasm for learning, being involved and making the most of his high school career. Michael will be successful in anything he puts his mind to because besides his academic talents, he simply treats people well.” – Mr. Lodes

“Michael is a genuinely kind, compassionate young man. He is always positive, appreciates all the good in the world, and constantly strives to learn more.” – Ms. Hulett

“Michael Gableman is so fun to have in class because he has a perspective like no one else. He always had a comment or question that made me say, ‘Hmm,’ and look at things a new way. Even seeing his name on a paper can be fun, since he's so creative with it. And no one is a more consistent good-day wisher than Michael!” – Ms. Faherty

“Michael is funny, inquisitive and loves science! He always wants to know more about what we are learning about in chemistry, tackles tough concepts enthusiastically and is constantly trying to link what we are learning to what he is learning about in his other classes. He always comes to class with a positive attitude and never leaves without telling me to have a good day.” – Ms. Senn

You would think that after mistakenly grabbing her team’s final offensive snap, knifing her way through the driving rain and scoring the winning touchdown in the final minute of this year’s Powder Puff, Mara Kuzmanovic would have reached the apex of her life. What more could she possibly accomplish? But wait, there is more - much more - to Mara than just winning football games, and for that, Mara has been awarded the Senior of the Week honor. In school, she challenges herself with a full course load; the two most common letters at the start of her classes are A and P. Outside of school, Mara balances her academic undertakings with a number of activities, including Poms and the Spring Musicals. From her teachers’ comments about her, it is obvious that Mara is a driven, engaging and talented individual who will continue to accomplish great things in her life. Thank you for all you’ve done for our Greendale High School community, Mara, and all the best in your future endeavors!

“Mara always has a smile on her face and a kind word to share. She is highly intelligent and completely down to earth. She is the type of kid that students and adults really enjoy having a conversation with.” – Ms. Matlock

“There are so many great things about Mara, I hardly know where to begin. She is friendly, mature, easy to get along with, hard working, motivated and modest. I'm thrilled to have her in class again this year. She participates fully in whatever the class activity is, pulling other people along with her, and always asks questions. I'm excited to see whatever Mara does next - it will definitely be excellent.” – Ms. Faherty

“Mara consistently strives for excellence. She is a very respectful young lady with a sincere personality. I enjoyed having her in class!” – Ms. Bernal

“Mara is a wonderful, kind and hard working young woman. Her outstanding ability, creative ideas and leadership have been a true asset to the Greendale Poms! Her dedication to excellence is second to none and she truly has been a pleasure to coach!” – Ms. Rutkiewicz

“Mara is an extremely polite young lady who does her best. She works very hard and is dedicated to her many activities.” – Ms. Kruschke-Alfonso

“Mara has a sense of humor and grace that set her apart. She is talented, smart and fun to be around.” – Ms. Hulett

“Mara has consistently been a leader and outstanding role model for actors and dancers in the Spring Musicals here at GHS. She has served as dance captain the past two years [ANNIE, THE PAJAMA GAME] and played a major supporting role in THE SOUND OF MUSIC as a Freshman. Her positive attitude and cheerful personality make rehearsing with her a pleasure for both directors and cast.” – Mr. Christiansen

Joe Jankowski has an arm span large enough to encircle five of his friends in a warm, blanketed embrace next to the Homecoming bonfire, and he has a heart to match it. For his constant efforts to humbly serve those around him, Joe has been awarded the Senior of the Week honor. He dabbles in a little bit of everything, a man of many musical talents and an integral member of the Panthers football team. When a child in Greendale was recently reported missing, Joe asked if he could organize a search group during his lunch hour. From his teachers’ comments about him, it is obvious that Joe is a kind and giving person who will continue to make the world a better place through his work. Thank you for all you’ve done for our Greendale High School community, Joe, and all the best in your future endeavors! Now, if we could just get you to take your hat off in the hallways…

“Joe is the kind of kid that always has a smile on his face and would never do anything that would be hurtful. He is the type of kid that extends himself to varying types of people as a leader and as a support. He is just a fantastic young man.” – Ms. Matlock

“Joe Jankowski is a true renaissance man. He embodies much of what we want our graduates to be: intelligent, well-rounded, good communicator, kind, funny, relentless, athletic, musical, empathetic, and the list goes on. Every interaction I have had with Joe has been impressive and I know that he will go on to do great things and to further define himself.” – Mr. Lodes

“What I remember the most about Joe is his humble character. He has a gigantic heart!” – Ms. Bernal

“After not playing since 8th grade, Joe recommitted himself to football in 2011. As Joe worked to physically transform himself this off-season, he earned ‘212’ status in 2011. Joe is an invaluable member of the Panthers Offensive Line this season. His mature demeanor has served our younger players very well.” – Coach Stoltz

“I am very fortunate to have had the privilege to know and work with Joe at GHS during the past four years. Joe is a gifted student that exemplifies the characteristics of the Senior of the Week: academic excellence, leadership, and service. Joe is generous with his time, and has frequently stepped up to volunteer to mentor and/or tutor other students. Joe performed in the 2010 Haiti Benefit Concert and co-led the 2011 Music to Feed the Hungry Concert. He is continuing his involvement in the student-driven and student-led benefit concerts by helping to plan and lead the upcoming 2012 concert. Joe’s focus, determination, concern for others, and musical abilities make him a unique student.” – Ms. Petersen

Hayley Serketich accomplishes in twenty-four hours what you and I would accomplish in twenty-four days. For her tireless efforts and work in our school community, Hayley has been awarded the Senior of the Week honor. She is an active member of a number of clubs in the school, and she is the captain of both the cross-country and soccer teams. In addition, she serves as a student representative on the Greendale School Board. This is all done while balancing a full class schedule of AP courses, which, like everything else in her life, Hayley thrives in. From her teachers’ comments about her, it is obvious that Hayley is a friendly, outgoing, and positive leader who will make a true difference in the world as she continues on. Thank you for all you’ve done for our Greendale High School community, Hayley, and all the best in your future endeavors!

“Comes to practice in a positive mood despite all the activities/clubs/meetings on her agenda. If Hayley believes her performance in practice or in competition was subpar she feels that she let her teammates down. Assists in getting team activities organized outside of practice time.” – Coach Binnebose

“Hayley has served her school and community for two years as one of two Student School Board representatives. I appreciate the way Hayley approaches that responsibility by keeping the students and their high school experience at the center of that work.” – Mr. Lodes

“Hayley is a remarkable young woman who has always impressed me with her work ethic, leadership, and an energy so positive that it can fill a room. She has been a joy to teach throughout the years and will be a force to reckon with in whatever field she chooses in the coming years.” – Ms. Schley

“Hayley is a great person in so many ways. She's friendly, kind, outgoing, and positive. She always greets you cheerfully in the hall. Having been lucky to have Hayley in class twice, I know she's got the smarts and motivation to back up her great personality. She is one of the most motivated and hard-working students I know - especially considering everything she's involved in, from sports to the school board to AP classes. I think Hayley's most impressive characteristic is her determination to confront and work through any challenge she faces.” - Ms. Faherty

“Hayley Serketich is a very conscientious student and a very caring individual. Her effort is consistent-she always gives her best. She is a joy to have in class.” – Ms. Kruschke-Alfonso

Just like pulling off wearing white loafers well after Labor Day, being the first Senior of the Week takes a confident, self-assured individual. Hence, it is no surprise that Sebastian Garcia-Bankowski has received this honor. He is a well-rounded individual, succeeding both in the classroom and on the football field. More importantly, he gives back to our school community through his efforts in tutoring and helping those around him. From his teachers’ comments about him, it is obvious that Sebastian is a genuinely kind, focused, hard-working individual who has a bright future ahead of him. Thank you for all have done for our Greendale High School community, Sebastian, and all the best in your future endeavors!

“Sebastian Garcia-Bankowski is a kind and conscientious student. His commitment to fine writing has always been evidenced by his interest in conferencing throughout the composition process, yielding excellent work.” -- Ms. Siegrist-Ragan

“In addition to Sebastian's academic strengths, he is an incredibly genuine individual who has a sincere interest in helping other students. I witnessed Sebastian tutor a freshmen last year and I was very impressed by his patience and ability to encourage the younger student. It is a benefit to have Sebastian as a student and I hope to have him as a student for a class.” – Mr. Craze

“Sebastian is the kind of student who is just plain fun to be around. He's ‘wicked’ smart but doesn't flaunt it, his wit is quick, he's willing to help anyone at anytime, and he almost always seems in a good mood.” – Ms. Hulett

“Sebastian is one of the most enjoyable people to have in class that I know. He always has something to contribute to discussions, and he has a unique perspective. He is hard-working, mature, and personable. I know he's going to make a huge impact on the world.” -- Ms. Faherty

“Sebastian is a selfless, dedicated member of the GHS student body. He devotes 100% of his efforts to anything he becomes involved in and will provide 100% support to anyone else that needs it. He is a young man beyond his years in maturity, intellect, and commitment. This is an honor that is truly well deserved.” – Ms. Matlock

“Sebastian is a great guy. He is smart, funny, and one of the most independent and self-directed students I have ever worked with.” – Mr. Hubing