ISD 728 School Board Recognizes October 2025 Student Leaders from Zimmerman and Westwood Elementary Schools

The ISD 728 School Board and our building leaders continue the tradition of recognizing outstanding students who stand out as leaders in their respective schools. 

Students are nominated by building administrators, teachers or staff and then honored with a photo and certificate at a designated Board meeting throughout the year. Zimmerman, as is tradition, kicked things off for the 2025-2026 School Year. 

Here are the honorees from the two elementary schools: 

Zimmerman Elementary School 

Aubrey Purtle

I am proud to recognize Aubrey Purtle for always giving 100% in everything she does.  She approaches each day with a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, and a genuine desire to do her best.  Her determination and focus inspire those around her.  She shows respect and kindness to others, whether it's helping a classmate, showing patience during group work, or offering a friendly smile that brightens someone's day. Her willingness to help and support others truly reflects the values we strive to uphold at Zimmerman Elementary.  Thank you for being a wonderful example of hard work, respect, and compassion.  You make our classroom and school community a better place every day, and I am so proud of you!

Jolene Dehn

Jolene (Jojo) Dehn is an all-around terrific kid! She comes to school every day with a smile on her face and remains positive no matter what the situation is. She never complains, and she is such a hard worker, always striving to do her best. She is so kind and friendly to her peers. She is a wonderful role model for everyone around her. Jojo takes the time to fill her teacher's bucket daily at recess by always finding something to compliment her about. At the end of the day, she goes right to work helping to clean up the classroom while she waits to leave. She does this with such a happy heart! Thank you, Jojo, for being you and for being a ray of sunshine in our classroom each and every day!

Westwood Elementary School

Everett Berg

We are thrilled to recognize Everett, a student who truly brightens our school and sets an example for everyone, both in and out of the classroom. If you know Everett, you know he has a superpower, and that is his contagious attitude. He always has a smile on his face, and that joy and positivity spill over, lifting the spirits of everyone around him.

Everett has a real 'go get it' type of personality. He is never afraid to try something new, and he never gives up. His persistence and a natural curiosity lends itself to becoming a top-notch student. He's always willing to go above and beyond academically.What truly makes Everett stand out is his leadership and heart. As a fantastic teammate, he shows us all how to collaborate. Take the Math Bowl, for example: he was amazing at listening to his teammates' input and maintained a fantastic attitude, whether they were winning or not.  Everett, thank you for your commitment, your hard work, and for being the kind of person who brings joy and positive energy to our school every single day. We are so proud to have you!

Caitlin Royer

We are thrilled to honor a student who exemplifies excellence in every way.  Caitlin stands out immediately as a natural leader. And when we look at why that is, it comes down to her incredible work ethic and her commitment to helping others.

Caitlin is one of the hardest workers we have had the joy of teaching. She puts her very best effort into everything she does, whether it's a major class project or a small detail. Her love for learning shows every single day through her effort, her deep curiosity, and the sheer quality of her work. She is highly creative and always coming up with new ideas to go above and beyond, no matter what the assignment. Caitlin’s impact goes far beyond her own work. She sets a genuine and positive example for all of us. She is kind, thoughtful, and a wonderful person to be around. If a friend needs help, Caitlin is always the first one to step up and offer support and encouragement. This is a person who consistently makes great choices and lives her values.

Caitlin, thank you for being a wonderful classmate, an inspiring student, and a true leader. You show us all what it means to work hard, be kind, and push for excellence in everything you do.