The second recipient of the Galena Rotary Student of the Quarter for the ‘24 – ‘25 school year is Jayden Martin ‘27. This award recognizes sophomores who have excelled in their efforts to improve academically and are not always recognized for these efforts. One can be chosen for this award from teacher nominations that express why a student should be nominated.
Martin’s teachers had many kind and admirable things to say about Martin and his work ethic. “Whenever he is gone he comes in right away to find out what he missed,” Mrs. Burken, Martin’s math teacher states, “He participates in class and volunteers often to go to the board to solve problems and explain his work. He has been having a great year in my classroom.” This demonstrates Martin’s ability to be accountable and show initiative when it comes to his school work, which is greatly noticed and appreciated by teachers.
Not only does Martin display commendable traits when it comes to his academics, but he also excels in the attitude he brings into the classroom. His Consumer Economics teacher, Ms. Friederick commented, “Jayden has great participation in the kitchen labs, asks for help when he needs it, and comes in with a positive attitude each class period!” The energy that Martin brings to the classroom is truly infectious and inspiring to his fellow peers and teachers.
Mrs. Getz is a GHS teacher who works very closely with Martin and has nothing but pleasant things to say about who Martin is and who he is becoming. “Jayden is an amazingly kind, funny, and smart young man. He is a joy to have in class, and I am very proud of his growth and maturity from freshman to sophomore year!” Getz shares.
Beyond Martin’s school work, he shares a passion for all things technology, including building his own computer. Mr. Leavitt worked with Martin to achieve this goal and had many praiseworthy things to comment about Martin., “Last year he started ordering all of the parts to build his own high-performance gaming computer, and as soon as we were back in school this year he started updating me on the progress he is making. Last week he powered it up!” Leavitt adds, “He is very excited about being able to be in CTE next year so that he has access to all of the amazing tools that will be available to him to further his boundless curiosity with all things related to what’s behind the side panels of a computer.”
Martin loves participating in the GHS marching and concert band. His favorite teacher is Mrs. Getz, although many are in the running for his top choice. After graduation, he would hopefully like to work on his parent’s farm until he finds a good job. Outside of school, Martin enjoys playing video games, working on his farm, learning about how to build computers and other technology, and talking with friends or family.
