From left are the Optimist Club’s Outstanding Student Citizens Erica Walker, Taylor Henwood, Sean Alanarie and Maggie Walkowiak. Photo by Phil Custodio

BY PHIL CUSTODIO
Clarkston News Editor
Clarkston Area Optimists Club honored four Outstanding Student Citizens at its March 29 breakfast meeting, Maggie Walkowiak of Andersonville Elementary; Taylor Henwood of Clarkston Elementary; Sean Alanarie of Independence Elementary; and Erica Walker of Everest Academy.
Maggie Walkowiak is a compassionate, kind leader, hard working and dedicated to everything she does, said Andersonville Principal Kim Fletcher.
“She embodies the Leader in Me habits,” Fletcher said. “She considers all viewpoints before making decisions. She truly thinks the best of everybody, always has a beautiful smile on her face wherever she goes, and brings smiles to others.”
“She truly represents all that is good in the fifth grade,” said her teacher Gary Amick.
She always does her best, is kind and loyal, and leads by example, Amick said.
“She is also an incredible person,” the teacher said. “You are a rock star of life and I am so proud of you.”
Sean Alanarie is a true Independence Elementary Bronco, said Principal Nate Fuller
“He’s doing a great job,” Fuller said. “He is an example of the ideals of perseverance and grit – he brings out the best in everyone.”
He plays lacrosse and violin, and is an inspiration to others, the principal said.
“Sean is such a leader in the classroom and school,” said his teacher Laurie Stevenson.
He helps students with special needs, Young 5’s and kindergarten with lunch, and is filled with kindness, helpfulness, and honesty, Stevenson said.
“I’m really blessed to have you in the building and classroom,” she said.
“He goes out of his way to find out what he can do to help and encourage them,” said teacher Emily Deachin. “He’s always working very hard to get everything done he needs to do.”
Taylor Henwood has an amazing ability “to be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own,” as stated in the Optimist’s Creed, said Clarkston Elementary Principal Brian Adams.
“She is a mighty force, powerful and focused,” said her teacher Cindy Pyscher. “Academically, socially, athletically, she is a champion.”
Henwood is a champion competitive cheerleader, and perseveres in athletics, creativity, and teamwork.
“She puts grit, determination, and fight into every moment of every day,” Pyscher said. “She refuses to settle for any weakness within her – she fights for and defends any person or cause. She is a champion for life. She is the most amazing child in the world.”
Erica Walker was selected as Everest Academy’s first Optimist student citizen for her responsibility, compassion, and caring leadership, said her teacher Andrea Duhaime.
“She always comes to school with a positive attitude,” Duhaime said. “She is eager to help and encourages other students.”
Walker has great character, and is humble and caring.
“If anyone needs a hug, or just help on one more math problem, she is right there to help,” her teacher said. “She is always first to lend a helping hand.”