Student of the Week 2024-2025
Nov. 11 - Cyler Van Der Hoeven
Cyler Van Der Hoeven, who is an eighth-grade student at Carey Junior High, was selected as Laramie County School District 1’s Student of the Week for the week of Nov. 11.
Van Der Hoeven was unanimously selected by the committee for being an exemplary student that strives for greatness.
Van Der Hoeven excels in academics, attendance and helping others. He is a role model for his peers, known for his kindness, determination and grit. Beyond the classroom, he is always eager to assist fellow students and embodies qualities of diligence and ambition.
After high school, Van Der Hoeven plans to pursue a nursing degree at the University of Wyoming.
Van Der Hoeven selected Tonya Moore as his favorite teacher because of her kindness and passion for teaching.
Nov. 4 - Issac Rios Quintana
Issac Rios Quintana, who is an 11th grade student at South High School, was selected as Laramie County School Districts 1’s Student of the Week for the week of Nov. 4.
Rios Quintana was selected by the committee for his leadership and commitment to education. He is an outstanding individual who has been a good student this fall, persevering through credit recovery.
Through tutoring peers in his industrial tech class, he has demonstrated the importance of being respectful to teachers and how to inspire other students through his example.
Rios Quintana is active on the football team, where he models sportsmanship and determination.
Rios Quintana selected Paul Weatherford as his favorite teacher because he connects with students and makes learning enjoyable. In describing Rios Quintana, Weatherford says, “He always greets me with a smile and a fist bump, which shows both his enthusiasm and honorability.”
Oct. 28 - Gabriel Rodriguez
Gabriel Rodriguez, who is a senior at Central High School, was selected as Laramie County School District 1’s Student of the Week for the week of Oct. 28.
Rodriguez was selected by the committee for his positivity and for being a role model in maintaining strong grades and attendance.
Rodriguez's hard work and persistence are evident in his involvement with wrestling and welding. He is known for his friendly demeanor and his effort to include all students.
Following graduation, he plans to pursue a career in welding and hopes to continue wrestling in college.
Rodriguez selected Steven Winchell as his favorite teacher because of his engaging teaching style and ability to make learning enjoyable.
Oct. 21 - Hayleigh Brakel
Hayleigh Brakel, who is an eighth grade student at Johnson Junior High, was selected as Laramie County School District 1’s Student of the Week for the week of Oct. 14.
Brakel was selected by the committee for her academic perseverance and positive influence on her peers. She excels in her classes and maintains good grades while serving as president of the National Junior Honor Society.
Her teachers highlight her natural leadership and kind demeanor seen in and out of the classroom. She encourages others and fosters a supportive classroom environment.
Outside of the classroom, Brakel is Johnson’s volleyball team leader. During games, she cheers for her teammates, gives it her all and maintains a positive attitude.
Brakel chose Jessica Bailey, the dean of students at Johnson, as her favorite educator. Brakel said she appreciates that Bailey encourages her to strive for her best and consistently checks in on her.
Oct. 14 - Loriana Walter
Loriana Walter, who is a senior at East High School, was selected as Laramie County School District 1’s Student of the Week for the week of Oct. 14.
Walter was selected by the committee for her leadership and involvement at East and the community. She currently maintains a 3.94 GPA while challenging herself in taking advanced placement, and concurrent enrollment courses.
Walter actively participates in choir, National Honors Society, yearbook, dance and cheer, along with many other clubs and activities outside of school.
Following graduation, Walter plans to attend North Dakota State University to study agricultural communications and business.
Walter selected Shannon Stephens Hamilton as her favorite teacher because of the joy she brings to learning and her solution-oriented approach, as well as the time she takes to listen to students.
Oct. 7 - Wilson Pilger
Wilson Pilger, who is an eighth grade student at McCormick Junior High, was selected as Laramie County School District 1’s Student of the Week for the week of Oct. 7.
Pilger was selected by the committee for his academic excellence and positive influence. He has maintained a 4.0 GPA while taking all honors classes and participating in cross country, track and field, advanced band, and Cheyenne Little Theatre productions.
According to his teachers, Pilger’s unique personality does not go unnoticed. His positive presence impacts everyone around him. He is responsible, kind and dedicated, both inside and outside the classroom. In his free time, he enjoys hanging out with friends and skiing.
Pilger selected Jason Cook as his favorite teacher because he is kind and energetic. He appreciates seeing Cook outside of the classroom as his cross-country coach, where Cook fosters a safe and supportive environment for all students.
Sept. 30 - Ches McCart
Ches McCart, a senior at Triumph High, was selected as Laramie County School District 1’s Student of the Week for the week of Sept. 30.
McCart was selected by the committee for his display of leadership, hard work and problem solving skills.
During his time at Triumph, he has maintained a high GPA and participated in student council. Following graduation, McCart plans to attend Laramie County Community College to study psychology.
In his free time, McCart enjoys reading and plays goalie for the Cheyenne Capitals hockey team. He also works as an assistant teacher for the ASK program at Sunrise Elementary.
McCart selected Sara Willson as his favorite teacher because of her upbeat and positive nature and the support she has given him throughout his years at Triumph.
Sept. 23 - Thomas Baesler
Thomas Baesler, who is an eighth grade student at Carey Junior High, was selected as Laramie County School District 1’s Student of the Week for the week of Sept. 23.
Baesler was selected by the committee for his strong work ethic and consistent kindness. He regularly checks in with teachers and principals, which demonstrates his commitment to his academics and personal growth.
Baesler inspires other students through his kindness and hard work. He is described as an amazing student with a bright future.
Baesler selected Jennie Allen as his favorite teacher because she is always there for him and he enjoys her teaching style. “She always ensures that I am on track and doing what I need to do,” he said.
Sept. 16 - Camella Wedemeyer
Camella Wedemeyer, a senior at South High School, was selected as Laramie County School District 1’s Student of the Week for the week of Sept. 16.
Wedemeyer was selected by the committee for her display of school values and academic performance. She maintains high academic standing while actively participating in multiple advanced placement and concurrent enrollment courses. She has a passion for science, music, tennis and soccer.
Wedemeyer is a member of the wildlife club and collaborates closely with club sponsor Makala Knox to bring ideas to the group. Her commitment extends beyond the classroom, as she assists her peers with understanding material and stays after class to help clean lab supplies. She hopes to become a wildlife biologist.
In addition to her academic and extracurricular achievements, Wedemeyer is an active student athlete, participating in both tennis and soccer. Her contributions to her teams and her school community exemplify South’s core values of Honor, Enthusiasm, Responsibility and Determination (HERD).
Wedemeyer selected Makala Knox as her favorite teacher because she makes learning fun, engaging and exciting. In describing Wedemeyer, Knox says “she strives to do the best she can in everything she does.”
