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 March 12, 2026, the Board of Education recognized students from Newton Middle School.
Elle Marlow is a dynamic and inspirational leader who serves as a cornerstone of the Newton Middle School community. As the President of Newton’s Student Council, Elle consistently demonstrates ADAPTABILITY, often dedicating her own time outside of school hours with a level of dependability that ensures every event is executed to the highest standard. Whether she is on stage in a musical or engaging in the classroom, Elle performs at a high level with a RESILIENT spirit. She is a master of COLLABORATION, building up everyone around her—peers and adults alike—and challenging them to be their absolute best through her infectious energy and CREATIVITY. Elle’s "superpower" is her profound CHARACTER and compassion; she possesses a unique ability to make every student feel valued and is the first to welcome anyone new to the school. She is a fierce ADVOCATE for herself and others, ensuring that every voice is heard. She is a shining example of a student who is well-adjusted, thriving, and balanced.
Howell Arthur is an extraordinary leader whose dedication to service and community is defined by his proactive, "above and beyond" mindset. As an active leader in the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS), Howell is renowned for his initiative and strong CHARACTER, often identifying and completing helpful tasks before being asked. Whether he is leading his fellow baritones in the choir with a positive attitude or guiding his classmates through new challenges, Howell is a dependable and mature teammate. He consistently applies CRITICAL THINKING and PROBLEM SOLVING to navigate complex situations, figuring out effective solutions in real-time. Howell possesses advanced COMMUNICATION skills and a "calculated yet easy" approach to life that earns the deep respect of both peers and adults. His selflessness is perhaps his most defining trait, as he engages with the world with a sense of GLOBAL AND CULTURAL AWARENESS that encourages those around him to think deeply about their own contributions to their country and community. Mature beyond his years and unfailingly respectful, Howell is a truly impactful leader who elevates every environment he enters.
Kate Grantham is another standout leader whose impact is defined by her authenticity and her ability to build genuine, lasting connections. As the Vice President of NJHS and a cherished mentor in the NOVA program, Kate demonstrates exceptional CHARACTER through her natural ability to combine a hard-working nature with a sincere kindness. Kate has a remarkable talent for COLLABORATION, making every student feel truly valued and included whether she’s bonding through sports or engaging in games. One teacher recently referred to Kate as a "gem" for her fantastic sense of humor and her ability to inspire others. Driven by a genuine desire for RIGOROUS AND RELEVANT ACADEMIC SKILLS and personal growth, she naturally encourages everyone around her to strive for their best. Her inclusive spirit and mentorship bring a special energy that makes her a truly valued member of the Newton community.
Gabby Tweden is an exceptional student and a dynamic leader whose impact at Newton is truly profound. As the President of NJHS, Gabby perfectly balances confidence with humility, possessing a rare level of situational awareness. She demonstrates incredible ADAPTABILITY, remaining goal-oriented yet flexible enough to meet the needs of any situation or group. She is a "leader by example" who consistently applies RIGOROUS AND RELEVANT ACADEMIC SKILLS to every assignment, while remaining outwardly focused on helping her peers succeed. Whether she is impressing guest speakers with her attentive and respectful COMMUNICATION or elevating the energy of a classroom with her positive personality, Gabby demonstrates a level of maturity and reflection well beyond her years. Gabby’s ability to lead with an inclusive spirit and her personal commitment to CHARACTER and excellence make her a natural choice to represent the Portrait of a Graduate. Her presence consistently elevates her school community and serves as an inspiration to her peers.