The Student Spotlight segment of each Board meeting celebrates a student or a group of students who are living out the Portrait of an LPS Graduate, which highlights the life skills each LPS graduate should have. Tomorrow’s workers will succeed by constantly adapting to the changing world around them, and today’s students must begin by learning and developing life skills - where every student should be well-adjusted, thriving, and balanced.
Additionally, students will develop skills in:
Communication
Global and Cultural Awareness
Character and Critical Thinking
Problem Solving and Adaptability
Creativity and Risk Taking
Resiliency and Collaboration
Self Advocacy
All surrounding Rigorous and Relevant Academic Skills
In LPS, we strive to implement opportunities to grow these skills at every level of education, and we recognize students of all ages.
At the regularly scheduled meeting on February 19, 2026, the Board of Education recognized students from Sandburg Elementary School and Arapahoe High School.
Sandburg Elementary School
Inbie Lee has many traits of a Portrait of a Graduate as a young learner. She ADVOCATES FOR HERSELF and SOLVES HER OWN PROBLEMS. She is RESILIENT when the work becomes challenging and seems to want more. She is extremely CREATIVE in her thinking, writing, and artistic abilities. She is more than willing to share her ideas with others as well as listening to others’ ideas. She is an amazing young learner. Inbie is very ADAPTABLE. She is willing to work with all classmates and loves a challenge. Inbie has strong CHARACTER traits. She is confident as a student and a friend. She has traveled out of the country and shares what she has learned. Inbie leads everyday with kindness, knowledge, and courage. Her teacher, Mrs. Majewski said, “I am lucky to be her teacher!”
Carina Nelson demonstrates a strong sense of CHARACTER by showing kindness and respect to others each day. She follows rules, tells the truth, and is always willing to help, showing responsibility and a positive attitude. When work is challenging, Carina asks for help instead of giving up. In January, she made a social emotional goal to lead with her heart and to include everyone. The depth of her goal shows emotional maturity beyond her years. Carina asks many thought-provoking questions and is curious about broader subjects. She demonstrates ADAPTABILITY when the class schedule changes or a guest teacher is present by continuing to do her best. In these times, she is usually referred to as a shining star for the day. Carina is willing to try new activities, work with different classmates, and use a new strategy when learning is challenging. When mistakes happen, she accepts feedback and keeps trying, showing flexibility and a positive attitude toward learning. Carina also SELF-ADVOCATES and seeks to understand the feedback her teachers give on her work. Her peers and adults recognize her leadership and influence in her contributions. Her teacher, Ms. Huber, said, “Carina, I couldn’t be more proud of you. It is a delight to be your teacher.”
Blake Graff demonstrates many of the Portrait of a Graduate traits. Her COMMUNICATION skills are excellent and she collaborates with her peers at a high level. She is insightful and thoughtful, and she is not afraid to TAKE RISKS or to help set examples for others. She has a lot of integrity and encourages others to be the best version of themselves. When thinking about all of these skills that Blake demonstrates well, her CHARACTER stands out most of all. Blake has a deep understanding of herself, her worth, and her place in the Sandburg community. She is compassionate and empathetic to her core, and her teacher, Mrs. Russell, said, “Our whole class benefits from her care and concern for others. She is a bright light for Sandburg and for LPS! We are so proud of you, Blake!”
Delilah Dosen is a thoughtful, motivated student. She consistently exhibits CREATIVE thinking by approaching challenges with imagination, flexibility, and a willingness to try new ideas. She expresses herself thoughtfully through her work, often finding unique solutions and perspectives that deepen learning for herself and others. Delilah’s creativity is evident not only in her academic efforts, but also in the ways she COLLABORATES, PROBLEM-SOLVES, and inspires those around her. Delilah’s creativity was especially apparent during her class’s reading and writing blocks, when she synthesized her learning about plays to create original works of her own. After studying their structure, character development, dialogue, and plot—she used her free writing time to compose engaging plays of her own that incorporated these characteristics. Delilah’s enthusiasm and originality inspired her classmates, many of whom began experimenting with writing their own plays after seeing her work, further illustrating her influence in the classroom community. Delilah also displays strong RESILIENCY, viewing mistakes as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks. She willingly revises her work, seeks feedback, and applies new strategies to improve, showing determination and confidence in her abilities. Delilah approaches learning with curiosity, determination, and confidence. She is not only growing academically, but also developing the skills and mindset needed for continued success as a learner and leader. Her teacher, Mr. K, said, “I am so proud of you, Delilah. You make a meaningful difference in our classroom, and I am excited to see all the amazing things you will continue to accomplish.”
Addie Moore is always steadfast in her approach to academics, extracurricular activities, classmates, and Sandburg. Her CHARACTER is such that she has a desire to do well in everything she does while making sure to always be there for any classmate and friend along the way. She is someone who brings others together, bridging differences amongst her peers to create a wonderful environment where everyone feels included and respected. She TAKES RISKS and is willing to try almost any new thing, knowing that if she isn't successful right away, that she will eventually find success. She fits into almost any situation without changing who she is. Addie can be paired with any student in class, and often sets a great example of COLLABORATION or RESILIENCY for others. She is always willing to work with other students as a team to complete the work. Her teacher, Mr. Reed, said, “Addie is never afraid to share with the class how her experiences relate to what we are learning and why things are important to her. Addie, we are so proud of you!”
Jake Kushner’s strong CHARACTER is at the core of everything he does. He possesses a clear sense of self and does not allow the opinions of others to define him. He consistently treats those around him with kindness, respect, and authenticity. His integrity is evident in the way he shows up each day: grounded, thoughtful, and genuinely compassionate. Jake demonstrates GLOBAL AND CULTURAL AWARENESS, understanding that people come from diverse backgrounds and experiences, and that the concept of “home” can look very different for others. He brings this perspective into small-group discussions, offering insights shaped by his lived experiences and the meaningful connections he has formed. His curiosity and openness elevate classroom conversations and invite others to think more deeply. Jake’s ADAPTABILITY further highlights his readiness to navigate an ever-changing world. When plans change or challenges arise, he approaches the situation with a steady, positive mindset and continues to work hard without losing momentum. As a RESILIENT learner, Jake perseveres when navigating challenges. Rather than disengaging, he asks for help when needed, maintains a growth mindset, and continues to view himself as capable and motivated. He approaches PROBLEM-SOLVING with intention, seeks effective strategies, and works toward common ground while remaining true to his values. Equally impressive is Jake’s ability to SELF-ADVOCATE with confidence and maturity, communicating what he needs to be successful, and he does so with self-awareness and grace. His teachers, Mrs. Odom and Mrs. Huston said, “His determination, resilience, and willingness to stretch himself speak volumes about both his character and his commitment to learning.”
Arapahoe High School
Olivia Humphreys has made remarkable progress over the course of her high school experience. Her journey has been quite unique and it's one of growth, perseverance, and strength. Her RESILIENCE and courage are evident to everyone who works with her. She has strong relationships with adults at school – and, with the strength of her family, she is ready to start her life after AHS. We are so proud of everything she has achieved!
Joe Motang has displayed incredible dedication and CHARACTER since joining the Arapahoe High School community. Moving here from Indonesia and transitioning between school systems is no small feat, yet Joe has navigated his senior year with the mindset of a truly RESILIENT learner. Joe has SELF-ADVOCATED, taking full ownership of his academic path and working diligently to master his coursework and ensure a successful path toward graduation. He has shown remarkable courage by enrolling in a swimming course, which is a completely new experience for him. Without hesitation, he “jumped right in,” proving once again that he is embracing new challenges with a positive attitude and a drive to succeed. Joe’s dedication to attendance and his relentless work ethic make him a standout member of the Class of 2026!
Gabe Garcia has successfully navigated his path toward graduation with maturity and a clear sense of purpose. By embracing opportunities at EPIC Campus and with Work-Based Learning, Gabe has transformed into an empowered individual who owns his future. His ability to balance the responsibilities of his job with his academic requirements demonstrates his CHARACTER and the work ethic we strive to instill in every Warrior. At his core, Gabe embodies the traits of a productive COLLABORATOR and is well-known for his kindness and the deep value he places on mutual respect. We are incredibly proud of the strides Gabe has made during his high school career!
Finally, Brinna Lambert and Millie Leubner were recognized together for the positive contribution they’ve made at Arapahoe. These two are outstanding Warriors who recognized a need for deeper connection, so they took the initiative to launch the “Wednesday Lunch Bunch.” This student-led group is a masterclass in empathy. By personally inviting peers who are sitting alone to join their table, Brinna and Millie demonstrate GLOBAL AND CULTURAL AWARENESS, ensuring every student feels a genuine sense of belonging. These two have not missed a single Wednesday, fostering an environment where friendship and kindness flourish through games and conversation. Their consistency and inclusion has allowed the group to grow each week, and their joyful table has become a cornerstone of connection at Arapahoe. We are proud of the culture of connection they have built.
