Grand County High School’s students of the month for September 2015 are Jayelen Knowles and Aaron Hawks. Both are juniors.
Jayelen is the daughter of John and Jacque Knowles.
She said, “My favorite classes are math, science, English and history because they allow you to push yourself. I love when I get a new math concept it makes me feel like I could solve any problem or when I learn a new vocab word and I can use it correctly!”
“My most challenging classes are math and chemistry but they are also my favorite classes because I have to push myself and really think, and be actively involved to get a full understanding,” she added.
Jayelen’s in-school activities consist of multiple competitions and sports teams like cross-country, where she is a captain, swimming, track, Science Olympiad, Quiz Bowl and marching band.
Outside school, Jayelen works for Arches Trading Post as a cashier, where she has been employed for two years. She also makes time to be an active member of the Community Church praise team, and she also participates in Young Life.
After high school, Jayelen plans on going to college, majoring in biology and studying animals in their natural environment.
Aaron Thyrill Hawks is the son of James and Wynette Hawks.
Aaron said his favorite classes are Ancient Civilization and U.S. History.
“I like learning about the past and about where my family came from,” he said. Aaron says his most challenging class is also his least-favorite, which is Spanish. “It just doesn’t click in my head,” he said.
Aaron has done many activities while attending GCHS, including cross-country, basketball, soccer, drama and marching band. Aaron is currently a captain of the cross-country team.
Outside of school, he works with the community by doing projects with his church, like weeding and gathering wood. He has also helped with various Eagle Scout projects.
Aaron has been employed as a cleaner at Wells Fargo Bank, where he has been working for the past nine months. He previously worked at Canyonlands Jeep Rentals, and worked there for the past two summer seasons.
After high school, Aaron plans to go on a LDS mission. He then plans to attend Colorado Mesa University and earn a degree in broadcasting, then transfer to Brigham Young University and continue his education there.
The local Elks Lodge sponsors Grand County High School’s Student of the Month program under the direction of Frank Vaccaro. The Elks started the program to recognize students who are outstanding in the areas of character, leadership, service, citizenship and scholastic performance. Jeff Richards is the high school coordinator. The Rotary Club and Grand County School District Board of Education also recognize the students.
