The Fort Dodge Community School District has named its students and employees of the month for October. This program recognizes one elementary, one middle school and one high school student, as well as one staff member monthly for exceeding expectations.

Chance Lockman is the Elementary Student of the Month. Samantha Harms and Jean Black nominated him.

They said Lockman always puts forth his best effort in the classroom. He is willing to help others by helping them get started or assisting when they need it. He raises his hand and participates well in class. They shared that Lockman stands out for his good character and kindness he shows toward his peers and adults. When it was raining one day, a student needed to leave but did not have an umbrella. Lockman used his umbrella to walk the student out of the building. Another day Harms dropped some of her materials and while others walked around it, Lockman picked it up and gave it to her. They concluded, “Chance is genuine and goes out of his way to be kind to others. He is a good role model because he shows kindness daily, includes others and is friendly to everyone.”

He is the son of Whitney Graaf and Lance Lockman.

Reilly Gordon-Peterson is the Middle School Student of the Month. Alyssa Faylor nominated Gordon-Peterson.

She said Gordon-Peterson is always doing what she is supposed to be doing at school. She pays attention in class and contributes to the science learning. She shows she is a leader by following the 4 B’s, being on task and treating everyone with kindness. Gordon-Peterson always has a smile on her face, cares about others’ well-being and is kind to everyone, especially teachers. It is evident she cares about others. She has a good heart and is a positive example for others. Faylor concluded, “Reilly is a joy to have in my 8th period class. She makes me want to be a better teacher every day.”

She is the daughter of Michelle Peterson and Chris Gordon.

Conley Daniel is the High School Student of the Month. Ryan Takatsuka nominated Conley.

Takatsuka said he is impressed with how Daniel has matured in just a year since he first had him in class. Last year Daniel seemed more frustrated and close-minded. Now he is taking greater time to listen and contemplate what others are asking or saying and he is presenting more thoughtful viewpoints, respectfully offering counterpoints, and more adeptly answering tough questions. Takatsuka believes it is because of this Daniel is having one of his best semesters academically even though it is his most challenging in rigor and difficulty. He concluded, “Conley’s improvement is not just academic, but social and emotional as well, and this personal growth exhibits exactly how students should be maturing through FDSH by always working hard and exhibiting a growth mindset.”

He is the son of Buck and Lexi Lara.

Tonia Burrell is the Employee of the Month. Jeri Thompson and Carmen Banwart nominated her.

They shared Burrell took on a new position as the ABC instructor at Butler Elementary and has become a strong, positive force for the entire building. They said Burrell has helped put systems in place to help students and staff be successful and her desire to be proactive has created a calm in the building felt by all students and teachers. Burrell models positivity and kindness through her authentic interactions with students, staff and families. They also shared that Burrell’s assistance in the implementation of Soft Starts and Mileage Club has dramatically decreased the discipline referrals before school and during lunch. Banwart concluded, “Tonia has established a wonderful rapport with staff, students and families alike. She models daily the importance of good character inside and outside of school.”