This November, Grand County High School is proud to recognize two exemplary students as Students of the Month: Hawk Stone Clapper and Magdalena Wilkowske, both seniors who exemplify leadership, academic dedication, and community spirit.
Hawk, the son of Maureen Clapper and Evan Clapper, is a well-rounded senior whose talents extend from the soccer field to the woodshop. Known for his creativity, Hawk’s favorite class is woodshop, where he enjoys crafting projects and exploring his potential. While math challenges him, he approaches it with determination, mastering key concepts along the way.
As the captain of the mountain bike team and a soccer player, Hawk embodies athletic leadership. Beyond sports, Hawk dedicates time to the community. Having worked as a summer camp counselor, he fondly reflects on sharing the “magic of the camp” he attended as a child. He also contributes as a lifeguard, a role that has honed his teamwork skills.
Post-graduation, Hawk dreams of becoming a pilot, traveling the world, and climbing mountains. His advice to fellow students is simple but profound: “Surround yourself with people that fill your cup, not drain it.”
Magdalena, the daughter of Hannah Wilkowske and Chris Wilkowske, is a high-achieving senior whose passions range from chemistry and calculus to ceramics. A true academic enthusiast, she thrives in classes that challenge her to be self-motivated and finds joy in learning, especially under the guidance of her inspiring teachers like Ms. Reed.
Outside the classroom, Magdalena takes on leadership roles as senior class president, swim team co-captain, Honor Society secretary, and a soccer team member. Her well-rounded interests extend to her seasonal job as a Sand Flats Apprentice, where she manages booth operations, repairs equipment, and nurtures her love for the outdoors.
Magdalena’s future plans include attending college to study civil engineering, where she hopes to combine her love of problem-solving and sustainability. Her advice to peers emphasizes the importance of focus and balance: “Go to class. If you use class time to the fullest potential, you will learn to enjoy class and will understand better.”
Congratulations to these outstanding students and their families for their achievements and contributions to the GCHS community!