Category Archives: Special

Student Of The First Quarter – Jacob Dorshorst

“Jacob is a polite, respectful, and hardworking student. He holds himself to high standards and works daily to reach them. Whether it’s his daily assignments, One Act, Speech , or FBLA, he always puts his full effort into whatever it is that he is doing. Jacob volunteered to help set up the park for Friendly Festival this year, and he stayed until the last thing was done. He carries himself with integrity, and represents himself, his school, and his community with pride. I am so happy to see Jacob receive this award; he is so deserving.”

“Jacob stands out as an intelligent, kind, and dependable member of our school and community. He consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic and curiosity for learning, approaching every challenge with thoughtfulness and enthusiasm. What truly sets Jacob apart is his willingness to help others—whether offering support to classmates, leading by example, or contributing to a positive classroom environment. His character, intelligence, and compassion make him a well-rounded student who represents the very best of Hay Springs High School.”

“I am very excited for Jacob to receive this award. Jacob is a truly authentically great kid. In a world where there is a lot of hate and unkindness, Jacob is the opposite. He is kind and so very caring and kind to the teachers, staff, and peers! He excels at school and works hard at any task in front of him. One thing that I admire about Jacob is he will always greet people and carry up a conversation. This says a lot about a student when they will look an adult in the eye and ask them how their day is going and just visit with them.”

“I appreciate Jacob’s hard work and dedication in the classroom and to his activities. I also want to note how kind he is to others and is always friendly in the hallway. Jacob does not give into peer pressure and he is such a great role model for younger students. I believe he is very deserving of student of the quarter. Congratulations, Jacob!”

“Jacob is a light in this school. Always willing to help out without being asked and starting a conversation with anyone in the hallway. He isn’t afraid to be himself but also puts himself out there to be successful. A great leader for others to look up to and someone who is willing to help younger students achieve their goals. Jacob is someone who is never down but can always help cheer others up and he will gladly do so. He is very deserving of student of the quarter and I am so proud to have him as one of our students. Great job Jacob!”

“Jacob is one of those students who is just willing to do whatever needs done. He will show up for extra rehearsals, performances and fund raisers; and he does it without one ounce of complaint. Jacob is also the student who brightens a room just by walking into it. He has a great attitude and a joyful disposition. Jacob would be an excellent student of the quarter.”

“Jacob is always eager to help. He has a great attitude and is not afraid to try new things. Jacob is also eager to learn new concepts, asks questions and applies what he has learned. Jacob leads by example. Congrats, Jacob!”

“Jacob is truly deserving of being named Student of the Quarter. He is consistently helpful, hardworking, and kind. Jacob is always friendly and respectful toward both staff and his peers, and I’ve witnessed many occasions where he willingly lends a hand whenever needed. He is actively involved in school and embodies the qualities we expect of a Hay Springs student. Congratulations, Jacob — this is a well-deserved honor!”

“Jacob is a standout in both academics and extracurricular involvement, consistently demonstrating excellence, leadership, and dedication. He is actively engaged in Esports, Music, Speech, FBLA, One Act, and Track—balancing a demanding schedule with remarkable focus and enthusiasm. In the classroom, Jacob is an exceptional student: curious, prepared, and always willing to go the extra mile. His positive attitude and collaborative spirit make him a valued peer, often supporting classmates and contributing meaningfully to discussions. In just two years of high school, Jacob has achieved impressive milestones. He has qualified for both state Speech and state FBLA, and proudly represented our school at the FBLA National level—evidence of his hard work and
determination. Jacob’s commitment to growth, both academically and personally, sets a powerful example for others. Keep up the outstanding work, Jacob!”

“One of my favorite memories of teaching you wasn’t in my class. Although you were always a terrific student, worked hard, got stellar grades, what I remember most is a time when I subbed for Mrs Varvel. Of course my luck, the computer wasn’t working so her lesson plans went out the window and instead we practiced country dancing. I loved your enthusiasm! You were so fun to teach you didn’t complain no matter who you danced with even an old lady sub teacher. Something else that sticks in my mind was when I cooked for football dinners. You were always gracious and offered to help clean up. Thank you for always being an individual and making your own way at Hay Springs High School. (and I am very sorry you did not like the reading program in 4th grade. LOL)”

“Talan consistently demonstrates politeness and respect when interacting with others throughout the building. His positive behavior has made him a role model for younger students.”

“Talan has grown into a nice young man who works well with the elementary students and is helpful around the school. He is fun to watch on the football field or basketball court.”

“Talan Smith consistently comes to school with a positive attitude. He is always punctual for class and actively participates by asking thoughtful and insightful questions. His willingness to help his classmates understand difficult concepts is commendable, showcasing his strong leadership skills. Despite his active involvement in multiple sports and extracurricular activities, Talan maintains excellent grades. His ability to balance these commitments is truly impressive. Additionally, Talan has been exceptional in mentoring our younger students. He takes the initiative to guide them in appropriate behavior and active participation within the school community. His influence helps foster a supportive and respectful environment for everyone.”

“Talan is a perfect example of what being a senior leader means. His interactions with especially elementary students is very amazing to watch, we don’t see that often with a senior in high school. When he needs to roll up his sleeves and get to work, he does. He has been a great student the past few years and will be missed in our school when he graduates. Congrats, Talan this is well deserved.”

“Talan always works hard in class and is willing to help anyone who asks him. I have seen him helping his classmates with assignments on several occasions and he never complains about it. His willingness to help others also shows outside of the classroom. He is a great teammate and a hard worker. Talan has a great attitude and it is great seeing him continue to grow.”

“Congratulations to Talan on being named student of the quarter. He is most deserving of this honor. Talan is a leader in and out of the classroom. He is dedicated to doing his best and leads by example. He is a student who makes my day better. Again, congratulations to Talan for earning this honor.”

“Talan has always had a fabulous work ethic in the classroom. I remember enjoying his writing in 4th grade, he loved writing about his 4H steers. He has a laid back personality and a ready smile. In our kindergarten class we just love to see him when he comes to the elementary, the kids see him as a celebrity. I have enjoyed watchingTalan on the football field, at FFA functions, in the community, and at the school. I personally can’t wait to see what he does for the future.”

Talan is always very helpful as our office assistant. He does everything he is asked to do and he does it well… except for filing. Ha, ha. We will miss him next year!”

“Congratulations Talan! Talan is a great guy. He is willing to help adults or teachers. He is a great athlete on the field or on the court. I believe Talan deserves this award.”

“As I write this, I am honored to be a small part of Talan’s story. I witnessed Talan assisting another student step-by-step apply to multiple colleges. He did this while also applying to colleges himself. He was very selfless, patient, and kind. Talan is also so appreciative and has an amazing set of manners. He is a great leader and very deserving. Congratulations, Talan!”

“Talan is a consistent student. He encourages teammates and classmates. Talan does work without being asked even when he is sick or hurt. He is very dependable and on time, dependable, and has a good attitude. Talan is ready, willing, and humble enough to befriend and encourage underclassmen and elementary students.”

“Congratulations on Luis’s selection as Student of the Quarter. He is deserving of this honor. Luis has a fun personality and is a joy to have in class. His sense of humor lifts everyone’s mood. He cares about his peers and is always willing to help. I have seen him helping out in the elementary classes, and I know those young Hawks love him. Again, big congrats goes out to Louie.”

“I enjoy having Luis in class and how he always has a positive attitude. He works hard and will always lend a hand to help others, even if that means he may not get his own work done right away. His willingness to help others in and outside the classroom creates a positive environment that benefits everyone. Luis is a great student, but he’s an even better role model and I look forward to seeing him continue to grow and inspire others.”

“This is the first year I have ever had a student aide. It has turned out to be the best thing ever to see this high school student interact with younger students!! It also reminds us all how much younger students look up to our high school student athletes. If Mr. Luis is not in class, all the students are very concerned and want to know where he is. These K-3 students look forward to seeing and playing with him every day in PE. Mr. Luis has no problem ever jumping into being a partner with any student, playing a game, or just plain being a great help. I am very proud to say he is my student aide and deserves this award!!! Congratulations MR. LUIS!!!!”

“Luis is a great young man! He is super with the Kindergarten. Always kind and patient. The kids really look up to him. I also want to comment on what a great athlete he is. My entire family enjoys watching him on the football field. He really puts his heart into it! Congratulations Luis on being student of the quarter!!!”

“Luis is so good with the Kindergarten students when he is helping with Mrs. Mandelko’s class. I love his patience and infectious enthusiasm. Luis is a fabulous athlete and I know a lot of people recognize this but even better he is a good person. I have seen him make mistakes, own up to them and fix them. I have seen him be a truly outstanding individual.”

“Luis does an amazing job working with our younger students as a teachers aide. The kids love him because he helps them constantly and plays with them on their level.”

“Luis is an amazing kid. He is always trying and willing to help others through the toughest of times. He is always a leader and wants to make everyone feel good. Luis works hard for his academics, he will go the extra mile when needed to make sure his academics are caught up. All around, Luis is a great, respectful student who cares for others and will put others before himself.”

“Luis is a hard working, caring, kind, and humble young man. When he walks into a classroom he will always bring a smile to your face with his humor. He has a bright future ahead of him!”

“Luis is one of the most polite students we have. His respectfulness and attitude will take him far in life. He has stepped into the role of an upper classman so well and has shown a lot of leadership skills that will take him far in life! I am very proud of the man he is becoming!”

“Luis is so deserving of Student of the Quarter. He is always polite, friendly, and smiling. No matter when I see him, he makes a point to say hello. Luis shows good character in the classroom, in the hallway, and on the field. He is a great role model for younger students. Congratulations, Luis!”

“Luis has a sweet smile and shows respect to adults.”

“Luis is a strong-minded student who does his best to be kind to others and I have especially seen it with the younger kiddos. I witnessed Luis in the lunchroom with some of the elementary students and all of them acknowledged him by name and he was sure to talk to them and didn’t brush them off. He knows how to make good decisions and I am proud of the individual he is. Keep on, keepin’ on, Luis!”

Thank you to the Student of the Quarter sponsors!