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 October 23, 2025, the Board of Education recognized students from Wilder and Ford elementary schools.
Wilder Elementary School
Wade Beindorff is a shining example of a student who lives out our Portrait of a Graduate every day. Wade joined Wilder in the middle of last year and instantly became a Wildcat! Wade is truly a WELL-BALANCED AND THRIVING student who brings joy, kindness, and connection to our school community. Wade ensures everyone is included and valued. Wade’s social awareness shines through in the way he notices how others are feeling and offers encouragement or support when it’s needed most.
Wade also demonstrates outstanding ADAPTABILITY and flexibility in everything he does. No matter the situation, he approaches change with a positive attitude and a calm, open mind. Whether it’s trying a new activity, adjusting to a different routine, or working with new classmates, Wade is quick to adapt and find success. His flexible mindset not only helps him thrive but also sets a wonderful example for others.
He welcomes others with an open heart, adjusts to new situations with ease, and brings positivity wherever he goes. We are so proud of Wade and the wonderful impact he makes each and every day!
Rory Killgore has been a Wilder Wildcat since kindergarten. He has demonstrated remarkable growth and kindness and consistently demonstrates the qualities of an inclusive and compassionate learner. When new students arrive at school, Rory is one of the first to greet them with a smile and make them feel welcome. He takes time to show them around, introduce them to classmates, and ensure they are included in group activities and recess games.
Rory has also shown remarkable growth and RESILIENCY this year. No matter the challenge, Rory approaches each day with determination and a never-give-up attitude. He demonstrates true grit—working hard, staying focused, and pushing through even when things get tough. Rory’s perseverance and positive mindset have helped him grow both academically and personally. He learns from mistakes, celebrates progress, and always looks for ways to improve.
Rory’s journey is a wonderful example of what it means to be resilient and kind. We are lucky to have Rory at Wilder and in LPS!
It is an honor to recognize Riley Cornwell, an exceptional third grader who shines both academically and personally. Riley has been at Wilder since kindergarten. She approaches every task with curiosity, focus, and a positive attitude. She gives her best effort in all she does—her work is thoughtful, creative, and filled with pride.
Beyond her ACADEMICS, Riley demonstrates great CHARACTER. She treats everyone with kindness and respect, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer an encouraging word. Riley lifts others up and helps make the school and her classroom a place where everyone feels valued and included. Riley also embodies one of the most important qualities we celebrate—the ability to know and value your authentic and unique self. She leads with confidence, compassion, and a genuine sense of who she is.
We are so proud of Riley for being a bright learner, a caring friend, and a wonderful example of character and authenticity. Congratulations, Riley!
Dr. Justina Ford Elementary School
Benjamin Wuorinen
Thomas Winckler
Jonathan White
Ryan Weyhrich
Jack Webster
Nathan Siebenaller
Graham Knight
Anton Gleason
Marshall Ender
Audrey Dornseif
Adam Dix
Renata DeHarte
Matthew Beaudin
Sebastian Bailey
This incredible group of students exemplifies the Portrait of a Graduate trait of COLLABORATION at Ford Elementary. Together, they work as a team to care for our trout tank—testing the water, performing water changes, and ensuring the health of our fish. Through this shared responsibility, they are not only demonstrating reliability, consistency, and teamwork, but also building important life skills.
As they monitor water quality, troubleshoot challenges, and communicate to divide up tasks, they’re practicing real-world PROBLEM SOLVING and effective COMMUNICATION. They’re learning how to listen to one another, share ideas, and make collective decisions—all skills that will serve them well far beyond the classroom.
The trout tank they care for has become a beloved part of our school community. Many students find peace and calm when they visit the tank. Thanks to this group’s dedication, all students benefit from this meaningful and soothing space each day. By maintaining the tank and modeling responsibility, they are showing what it means to contribute to something larger than themselves—helping create a caring, connected school environment where everyone can thrive.
