Grand County High School’s Students of the Month are seniors Klara Irene Harms and Kanton VanArsdol. Both students are set to graduate this spring.
Klara Irene Harms
Klara Irene Harms is the daughter of Ilse-Marie Hamilton. Harms said her favorite class at GCHS is AP Art.
“I am very passionate about art and being in that class is just such a great outlet for all my ideas,” she said.
She finds English 1010 to be her most challenging class. “There are a lot of papers to write and not a lot of time!” she said.
Harms has been extensively involved in school activities, participating in girls tennis, swimming, mountain biking, track and field, FFA, DECA, and student government. She earned a Sterling Scholar award in Family and Consumer Sciences. She has also participated in school musicals and the honor society.
Outside of school, Harms has volunteered at Underdog. She currently works at The Find, the MRAC, and Hidden Cuisine, balancing multiple jobs with her academic commitments.
“Klara is a dedicated student who has done great in our art program,” said one faculty member. “She is kind to her classmates and encourages all of her classmates to participate and have fun in high school.”
After graduation, Harms plans to become a licensed massage therapist before returning to South Africa for a time. She eventually plans to attend college, though she hasn’t decided on a major yet.
Her advice to underclassmen reflects her positive outlook: “Some kids might not like school, but if you don’t try at all or participate, you’ll most likely like it less. So I’d say, why not actually try? Even if you can only try a little, that’s more than enough!”
Kanton VanArsdol
Kanton VanArsdol is the son of Kyle VanArsdol and Amanda Walden.
VanArsdol said his favorite classes are video production and business classes.
“I like video production because of the creativity and business classes because of I can see how to build my future,” he said.
He finds English to be his most challenging subject but despite this challenge, VanArsdol has been involved in multiple school clubs including the Dungeons & Dragons club, Chess Club, and E-sports.
VanArsdol contributes to the community through work at the Moab Community Church.
Teachers recognize his persistence and positive attitude.
“Kanton is a polite, hard working young man that doesn’t give up when he doesn’t fully understand something,” said one faculty member. “He perseveres in the face of difficulty, and isn’t afraid to ask for clarification.”
After graduation, VanArsdol is considering several paths and whether to stay in Moab or leave to pursue a business degree.
His advice to current students emphasizes the importance of seeking help: “Don’t procrastinate and if you need help ask a teacher—they are there to help.”
Appreciate the coverage? Help keep local news alive.
Chip in to support the Moab Sun News.
