Clarkston Optimist Club’s Outstanding Student Citizens, from left, for Pine Knob Elementary, Ava Pawlak; Gabe Yang, North Sashabaw Elementary; and Jessica Petker, Bailey Lake Elementary. Photo provided

BY PHIL CUSTODIO
Clarkston News Editor
Clarkston Area Optimist Club presented three Outstanding Student Citizen awards at its Feb. 22 meeting, to Jessica Petker, Bailey Lake Elementary; Ava Pawlak, Pine Knob Elementary; and Gabe Yang, North Sashabaw Elementary,
Gabe Yang is a leader at North Sashabaw, said Principal Jennifer Johnson.
“As a safety captain, Gabe is always responsible, respectful, and reliable. Mr. Phillips, who leads our Safety Patrol, says we can count on him to be a model of leadership for his fellow safeties and the younger students in the school,” Johnson said. “He goes out of his way to ensure the safety of students as they arrive to school. He keeps a careful eye on our youngest students and makes sure to guide them to where they are supposed to be. Every morning Gabe stands at the front door and greets everyone who walks by – cheerful, smiling.”
His teacher Adriane Reinelt said no one was more deserving of the Optimist award.
“Gabe is well known throughout our school for his leadership, his friendly nature and his constant willingness to help,” Reinelt said. “It should also be known that Gabe is an amazing artist and his art has been showcased at Oakland Schools.”
He loves spending his time outside of school doing karate and is very proud of his orange belt, Johnson said.
“Gabe is a huge help at home to his mom and sisters,” the principal said. “Gabe is a friend to all and is never intimidated by a situation that may seem too tough. Gabe does not act as a leader for a reward or recognition. He knows his actions can spread kindness throughout our school, and he wants to make a difference not only to his peers but also to our school community as a whole.”
Gabe has an excellent work ethic, and works for the best and expects only the best whether he is working independently or on a team, she said.
Jessica Petker is a student who finds an opportunity to smile and find the positive in any situation, said Bailey Lake Principal Glenn Gualtieri.
“She lifts up students and staff members with her optimistic disposition,” Gualtieri said. “Jessica is a student leader who excels in managing our school store, the Dawg House.”
She manages inventory, places orders for new supplies, and greets each customer with enthusiasm, he said.
“The most impressive characteristic about Jessica is the manner in which she carries herself during adverse situations. She views a challenge or struggle as an opportunity to grow,” said the principal.
Ava Pawlak is an optimistic, intelligent and extremely kind person, said Pine Knob Elementary Principal Jodi Yeloushan.
“She excels in and out of the classroom and is a hard worker who consistently gives her best effort in everything she does in her life,” Yeloushan said. “She is dedicated to her studies and she is a model student. Ava strives to always do her personal best in all her subject areas.
She has been on Safety Patrol all year and is seen as a positive influence on the bus.
“Ava is a role model to other children,” the principal said. “Ava doesn’t ever hesitate to help out. Ava looks out for others and takes care of friends when they need it.”
The fifth grader is the type of person who puts others before herself.
“She is always telling stories about how other people have helped her get through some challenging times,” Yeloushan said. “However, she doesn’t even realize how much she helps them. She is the most selfless person. If you asked her friends what they admire most about Ava, it would be she brings a smile to their faces when they need it most.”