Huxley Hagar is the Elementary Student of the Month. Kirstie Ron and Peggy Larson nominated Hagar. They said Hagar comes to school ready to learn every day. He is engaged in learning and continually shows perseverance, even when trying something new. He has embraced virtual learning and works hard to continue to learn during this unique time. Hagar does what is asked of him and reaches out to support other students who may be having a hard time. He is always willing to lend a helping hand to students or staff. Hagar is kind to every student and staff member in the building. They concluded, “He demonstrates all of the qualities that Duncombe Elementary stands for: love, serve, care. Huxley is an amazing addition to our school district and he should be honored for always doing the right thing!”

Hagar is the son of Jordan and Nicole Hagar.

Lyndey Maehl is the Middle School Student of the Month. Staff on the 7 Orange/Imagine team nominated Maehl. They said Maehl is detail oriented, inquisitive and proactive in her school work. She is a neutral partner when working with other students. Maehl is always smiling, even-keeled and works well with anyone. She has a positive attitude and authentic personality.

They concluded, “She deserves the recognition for being such a positive and influential role model to her peers at FDMS!” Maehl is the daughter of Ryan and Rachel Maehl.

Drake Ayala is the Senior High Student of the Month. Andi Adams nominated Ayala. She said even with the unique challenges of virtual learning and quarantining this year, Ayala takes his grades very seriously, maintaining a 3.9 GPA. He is good about emailing teachers to stay caught up whenever he is absent. He helps others with their pieces when peer editing in class, and offers great life advice to his peers. He is friendly, saying hello to everyone he meets in the halls. Ayala is humble and modest about his accomplishments. He is the epitome of a responsible student-athlete. Recently, the first Student-Athlete Advisory Committee meeting was held, and even though he had to be gone for wrestling the night before, he made sure he came and was on time to the 7 a.m. meeting. S

“Drake is the Fort Dodge poster child for this outstanding award, and he will represent this school district with pride and the love of being a true Dodger,” Adams said.

Ayala is the son of Sam and Angie Ayala.

Trish Gobrecht is the Employee of the Month. The FDMS Instructional Coaches nominated Gobrecht. They shared Gobrecht has taken on the difficult, but essential, task of leading the At Home students and facilitators all while continuing her school counselor duties. She has learned the ins and outs of the Edgenuity program and ensured each person has the tools needed to succeed. Her support and communication to families and staff has been beneficial to consciously improving the online procedures and policies.

They stated Gobrecht has single-handedly led the middle school through the challenge of online learning during a global pandemic by tackling challenges head on, collaborating with students, staff and families and putting in a tremendous amount of time. They shared that instead of complaining, she has chosen to learn, collaborate and problem solve to develop the best outcomes for students and staff.

They concluded by saying, “Trish has led worried and concerned teachers and families through uncharted waters with calm and compassion. She has set the tone for our staff that we can do hard things and together we can do them better.”