Downsview, for the week of April 10th, 2012, your Student of the Week is Shanel-Murrella A.
Shanel is in the eleventh grade at Downsview.
Shanel's nomination has been in the works for some time, and it is Ms McKenzie who started things off with this: “Shanel was an excellent library volunteer last year, as a brand new immigrant. She came into my English class as a new Canadian resident, made herself a part of it, and demonstrated exemplary attitude. She'd stay behind for extra help to get caught up and was just generally pleasant. Her first presentation was done in such a way that other students muttered 'talk about setting the bar high'. She's a little bit busier this year, but she still pitches in when she can in the library, and often drops in to say "hello" even if she can't stay. In general she's just a pleasure to work with and to be around. Shanel helped with grad preparations and with the actual ceremony last year, also. As far as I know she was conscripted to Student Council by her big sis and has been active in that area, going with Michelle to evening Super Council meetings and organizing events, like the holiday dance and the recent assembly. Shanel really deserves this honour!”
Ms McKenzie's nomination points to many of Shanel's best qualities – her excellent work ethic, her eagerness to assist and her great attitude. Recently, Shanel co-wrote and co-starred in a Sears Drama Festival production, Sisters. Anyone who has taken part in a stage production knows how much time and energy is involved. And while Shanel was pleased with the outcome, she says that theatre is not for her, and she vows that Sisters was her final acting experience. And yet, Shanel is open to new experiences. She recently joined a group of students and staff on the Safe Spaces Committee, who raised their voices about the issue of students lingering in the halls. It was clear from her comments that she is an activist; she believes in mentoring and guiding other students on her own time, for their betterment. Her lens is not, however, that of a missionary, it is that of a humanitarian; Shanel believes that we should approach our education, our building and ourselves with thought and dignity. As we approach “Pink Day”, a day that challenges the bully and the bystander, Shanel stands out as an individual who unquestioningly steps up and helps others. She has earned her position as a leader at DSS.
Genuinely assertive, fun and smart, Shanel has taken these qualities and woven them into her Downsview self, involving herself in many aspects of our school culture. Shanel, we are fortunate to have you and thrilled to crown you as Student of the Week.
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