Like No One Else

Nataly is a senior at Sun Prairie West High School, involved in Choir, Orchestra, Theater, and Yearbook Club.

During first semester, she was a member of Una Voce, an adapted choir class designed for students of all abilities. “It allows students in special education to participate in music in a supportive environment,” she explains. The most rewarding aspect for Nataly was the chance to meet and build connections with a diverse group of students.

In Una Voce, Nataly learned valuable skills like communication, adaptability, and listening. She realized that everyone learns differently, so she developed the ability to adjust her approach to meet others' needs. Her favorite part of Una Voce was the welcome song played daily at the start of class. “It was a great way to learn names and get everyone moving and dancing,” she says.

Nataly was part of the ensemble for the fall musical Seussical, but her favorite play was Beauty and The Beast last year. As her favorite Disney movie, she also performed in Beauty and the Beast Jr. in middle school. “It was cool to do it again with the friends I have today.” The high school version was longer, and Nataly learned tap dancing for the first time. She played The Baker and felt comfortable with the show, knowing many of the songs and characters. It was bittersweet to say goodbye to the seniors she had grown close to, but the experience was unforgettable.

One of her most memorable moments was seeing & Juliet at the Overture Center with the drama department. “It was amazing to see a full-scale production. Even though we were in the back, I had an amazing time,” she recalls.

After high school, Nataly plans to attend UW-Milwaukee to study architecture and minor in theater.

In orchestra, she plays the viola, a choice inspired by her mom, who also played the instrument. “I knew right away that the viola was the instrument for me,” she says.

Nataly is passionate about all her activities, and she hopes to carry that passion into her future. She thanks Ms. Barnard, the orchestra teacher, for her support since 8th grade, and Ms. O'Toole, the drama teacher, for helping shape her into the actor she is today.

🎶 Connor is a junior at Sun Prairie West who brings his passion for music and sports to life—he’s been in choir for 9 years and is also a defensive lineman on the football team. “I enjoyed singing in elementary school and thought, why not join?” he says. It’s a decision that has shaped his high school experience.

What he loves most about choir is the friendships and connections. “It’s a place where you can bond with people you might not have expected to. I’m more open now—I talk to anyone and care less about what others think.”

Connor’s favorite song he’s performed is The Lake Isle from the 2023 winter concert. “After we finished, I thought, ‘We just did that—and it sounded good.’” Choir also took him to the Overture Center to see The Barber of Seville, an Italian opera he found beautiful and inspiring.

In both choir and football, Connor says he’s learned the value of discipline. “You have to know what you’re doing, pay attention, and play by the rules,” he says. Football especially helps him manage stress and stay grounded outside of school.

Looking ahead, Connor plans to become a cook at a restaurant—something he’s been passionate about since he was young. “I’ll definitely be singing forever. It’s something you learn how to do and can always keep doing,” he adds.

Connor is grateful for the amazing teachers and coaches who have supported him along the way. He credits choir directors Mr. Vosters and Mr. Oxley for creating a welcoming environment and helping him grow as a singer. On the football field, he thanks Coach O’Connor and Coach Buscha “for pushing me to do things that I’m proud of.”

Having transferred from a different district, Connor says Sun Prairie has felt like home. “They know what they’re doing here,” he says with a smile.

🌟 Aleena is a sophomore in the Black Student Union (BSU) at Sun Prairie East. BSU has provided Aleena with opportunities to connect with others, grow as a person, and succeed.

“I didn’t even know BSU existed before coming here,” Aleena says. “Being part of BSU has helped me feel safe and seen. It’s given me a sense of culture and community I really needed.”

Aleena says that BSU has helped her come out of her shell—something she’s still working on. “When you’re quiet, sometimes you miss out on things. BSU has helped me use my voice and recognize that the people around me want to see me grow and succeed.”

She credits two key people in the club for inspiring and supporting her: Kady, the BSU president, and Mr. Reggie, the advisor. “Kady is so outspoken and elegant when she speaks her mind. I look up to her. And Mr. Reggie truly cares about us and our community—both of them make me feel safe and supported.”

Since joining BSU, Aleena’s world has expanded. She’s connected with more students and staff and learned about resources she didn’t know existed. It’s helped her build confidence and begin advocating for herself and her future. “It’s hard being a teenager—trying to figure out who you are and what you want to do. BSU has helped me feel more grounded and confident in who I’m becoming.”

Aleena’s goals are big and bold—she plans to attend a four-year university in the South and become a travel ICU nurse. BSU has helped her start preparing for that future, from building leadership skills to networking with peers across the state. She recently attended the statewide BSU Banquet, which she says opened her eyes to even more opportunities. “It showed me amazing people and things I can do to help my community.”

Outside of school, Aleena also participates in BSU fundraisers and events. She's grateful for the supportive environment she’s found at Sun Prairie East. “I’ve had so many opportunities here that I don’t think I would’ve had in Milwaukee. The staff and community really care and want to help students succeed.”

To others who may be thinking about joining BSU, she says: “Go for it. BSU is a great club for people who look like me. I’m excited to be part of it and see where it takes me.”

Anna, a senior at Sun Prairie East High School, has been a dedicated member of the drama department since her sophomore year, after transitioning from Central Heights Upper Middle School. Her passion for theater began in sixth grade, drawn by both the art of performance and the supportive community it fosters. For Anna, the most rewarding aspects of drama are the friendships she’s formed and the chance to perform. "It’s so rewarding being on stage and sharing my talents with an audience," she says.

Through drama, Anna has grown not only as an actress but also as a confident public speaker. She's now comfortable engaging with strangers and presenting in class—skills that have deepened her friendships and helped her beyond the stage.

Looking ahead, Anna is considering a career in arts administration or elementary education. Her favorite production was The Addams Family, where she played Wednesday Addams, but her recent role as Sandra Bloom in Big Fish may have taken the top spot. "The beautiful music and writing made Big Fish such a powerful experience—it might be my new favorite," she reflects.

Some of her most memorable moments include late-night rehearsals, field trips to the American Players Theatre, and performances for local elementary schools. She’s also grateful for the way the program has introduced her to career possibilities and encouraged her to explore new paths.

Anna credits much of her growth to the mentors and peers who supported her along the way, especially the senior classes she looked up to when she first joined. "They paved the way for me in this department," she says. The emotional journey of each production—from opening night jitters to the bittersweet final curtain—has made every show unforgettable.

She’s especially thankful to her middle school teachers who encouraged her to try theater—an experience that has shaped her life in lasting ways. "This program has truly opened so many doors for me."

👋 Anika is a freshman at Sun Prairie West High School, and she’s already deeply involved in school life—participating in ASL Club, HOSA, Forensics, Yearbook Club, and Asian Club. She joined these clubs to strengthen her college applications, meet new people, and build confidence by exploring things she’s truly interested in.

Her love for American Sign Language started back in 3rd grade, when she took an ASL summer school course. When she found out there was an ASL club in high school, she was excited to join and continue learning. “The best part is the feeling of learning a new language and being able to communicate with others,” Anika shares. It’s also helped her build closer friendships—she and a friend who also loves ASL have bonded even more by practicing together.

As the club secretary, Anika is building valuable leadership and organizational skills. Learning ASL has also taught her patience and persistence. “Some signs take time to learn. It takes practice and repetition, but the more I do it, the more confident I become.” That mindset has helped her in other clubs too. In Forensics, for example, she uses repetition to memorize material, just like she does when practicing new signs.

Anika feels proud of the milestones she’s reached. Learning ASL has expanded her communication skills, boosted her confidence, and helped her discover how she learns best. “It shows me I can reach my goals if I keep practicing.”

She’s already thinking ahead. After high school, Anika plans to go to college and then attend medical school to become a pediatrician. “ASL is one of the things that sets me apart. It’s a unique skill and a great way to connect with people.”

The ASL club has been a supportive environment for growth. “Our advisor is really helpful and always teaches us new words and phrases,” she says. “I really enjoy being at Sun Prairie West. I’m having a lot of fun and learning so much.”

Anika’s story is a great example of how clubs can open doors—not only to new experiences, but to discovering your future path.

🔧 Ellie is in 8th grade at Central Heights Middle School, and this is her first year taking Technology and Design. She was drawn to the class after hearing about all the cool projects other students had created, and she’s now experiencing the excitement for herself.

Inspired by her dad, who is an electrician, Ellie thought it would be fun to learn more about the kinds of things he does. Now, it’s become a connection they share at home. “My dad loves hearing about our projects,” she says. “He even made the cutting board I designed his phone wallpaper.”

That cutting board has been her favorite project so far. “We picked out our wood, chose our dimensions, glued the pieces together, and trimmed and sanded them until it looked polished and fancy.” The sanding was the most time-consuming part—taking three days and requiring both machine and hand sanders—but the end result was worth it. “I couldn’t wait to take it home and show my parents. It made me think about all the other things I could make in the future.”

Ellie enjoys the hands-on nature of the class, but also the way it introduces her to real-world career paths. “I like learning about different jobs related to design and building. It’s made me think about becoming an architect one day.” She plans to take more design and technology classes in high school and has found herself more confident and creative because of this class. “Now, when something breaks, I feel more equipped to help or at least research how to fix it.”

She first got interested in the class after seeing student work displayed in the windows and hearing how much fun others had. “Talking to other students made me want to try it for myself.”

In addition to design, Ellie is also involved in theater. She recently acted in Beetlejuice Jr. as Delia Deetz. What made the experience even more meaningful was seeing how the class connects to theater behind the scenes. “Set design and prop building all happen in our classroom. Being in both the class and the play gave me a better understanding of how much work goes into building sets and making props.”

Mr. Block, her teacher, has been a big part of her positive experience. “He gives really clear instructions and makes learning fun.”

Ellie’s story is a great example of how hands-on classes can spark interest, build confidence, and even shape future dreams.

🌟 Lucy, a junior at Sun Prairie East High School, is deeply involved in both academics and extracurriculars. She’s a member of DECA, Yearbook Club, and Interact Club, and plays on the Girls Lacrosse Team.

Lucy joined DECA her freshman year, inspired by her older sister, who was DECA president. Since then, the experience has shaped her into a confident communicator. “I can talk business with adults, be more professional, and have more serious conversations,” she says. “It’s helped me strategize and think critically in my more challenging classes.”

One of her favorite aspects of DECA is marketing. “I love the marketing concept. I love coming up with new ideas—making something creative, personal, and your own. Taking something that could be bland and turning it into something really cool.”

Lucy is looking to begin a career in cosmotology. Her grandfather, a barber, inspired her dream to one day open a full-service beauty studio. “I think it would be cool to not only have hair cosmetology, but also nails and a full beauty experience. I’ve thought about how I could incorporate my grandfather’s barber shop into the business plan.”

Through DECA, she’s gained real-world opportunities—job offers and invitations to work in salons—thanks to her initiative and professionalism. “DECA taught me how to lead, how to network, and how to find a way to make something out of nothing,” she says, crediting both DECA and her sister for modeling leadership and vision.

Her involvement in clubs has also led to powerful cultural experiences. Lucy and her family are currently hosting a foreign exchange student, Darsh, from India—an opportunity that came from connections through volunteer work. “It’s been so cool to talk about our cultures—what our parents do for work, our household responsibilities, and to try different foods and outfits together. I never would have had this experience without the clubs I’m in.”

Lucy loves to travel, and says that being part of so many activities has opened doors to new places and people. “I’ve made amazing connections through these programs.”

She also speaks highly of the staff who support her. “Mr. Anderson is incredible. He’s our DECA advisor, Interact advisor, and my lacrosse coach. He’s always doing so much for others and keeps saying yes to helping. How fast he takes initiative and gets things done—it really impacts all of his students.”

Lucy feels that the district plays an important role in student success, too. “The district is always improving. They keep a lot of teachers that you feel safe around. It’s amazing how fast you can connect with people and how many classes and clubs are available that include everyone.”

🌾 Andy, a senior at Sun Prairie West High School, is in his third year with FFA—and this year, he's serving as the chapter president. For him, the best part of being involved is the community. “It’s a diverse group of members, and it’s fun to get to know everyone. We all come together for a common cause—agriculture.”

One of the things he values most about FFA is the positive impact it makes on students. “We get to make connections, learn about people’s stories and perspectives, and explore the many opportunities in the field. It also helps you grow as a leader.”

As president, Andy coordinates a lot—sending emails, planning events, and working with the officer team to make sure every member feels welcome. “We want everyone to feel like they belong, and that our events run smoothly.”

FFA students take part in a variety of events, from career development competitions that highlight specific job paths like veterinary science or floristry, to leadership development events that build skills in things like public speaking. “There are about 30 different competitions,” Andy says. “Some are more career-focused, and others work on leadership. We even do things like extemporaneous speaking, which really helps you think on your feet.”

In addition to competitions, the FFA chapter is active in the community. Recent service projects included partnering with Sunshine Place and organizing a community shoveling event. “FFA really opened me up to how broad agriculture is. Coming in, I thought it was just animals—but there’s food science, natural resources, veterinary science. There’s a lot more out there than I realized.”

Andy hopes to become a teacher—ideally an agriculture teacher—and says FFA has helped prepare him for that. “It’s taught me how to communicate and connect with different people. That’s important when you’re a teacher, because every student is different.”

His favorite part of FFA? “The competitions, for sure. I’m competitive, so I love getting to show off the skills I’ve learned and work as a team. But honestly, just hanging out with everyone on the road trips—listening to music and having fun—is what I’ll remember most.”

Before FFA, Andy describes himself as a quiet kid who didn’t like big groups. “FFA helped me be more outgoing. I’ve really grown in my people skills and teamwork. As president, I’ve learned how to make sure everyone has the information they need and that we’re working together—that’s something I’ll use in everyday life.”

He’s also grateful for the support from Sun Prairie schools. “SPASD does a great job supporting us. They give us opportunities for grants, recognition, and even interviews like this.”

His advice to others considering FFA? “It’s for everyone—not just people with ag backgrounds. Don’t be afraid to stop by. It’s a lot of fun, and there’s so much to learn about the opportunities in agriculture.”

🧶 Mariama is a 6th grader at Patrick Marsh Middle School and a proud member of the crochet club. She joined because she wanted to make “cute little stuffed animals and fun patterns”—things she could eventually give as gifts. A year ago, she became interested in crocheting but didn’t have the supplies. Now that she’s part of the club, she’s diving right in.

A big moment came when she finished her first project: a tiny penguin. “I was so ecstatic and happy when I finished it,” Mariama says. “I felt really proud of myself.” For now, she’s keeping the penguin, but says she might gift it in the future.

Mariama says she enjoys hanging out with friends and crocheting together during club time. She appreciates how helpful everyone is. “When I ask questions, my classmates help me and teach me new things.”

Even though she’s just getting started, she’s already learned important lessons. “You have to take time and be patient—and you’ll get better and better,” she explains. The crochet club, she says, is more than just fun—it helps her build important life skills like patience, problem-solving, and perseverance.

Watching YouTube videos has helped her understand how to sew pieces together, and she’s even started learning how to read and create crochet patterns, even though “they can be confusing with all the abbreviations.”

When she grows up, Mariama wants to be a doctor who helps kids—but she also hopes to sell her crochet work or her own patterns on the side, since “a lot of people like this stuff.”

Her advice for anyone thinking about joining the crochet club? “It’s a lot of fun—you should try it!”

🏃 Connor, a junior at Sun Prairie East High School, is part of Unified Physical Education, a class that brings together students of all abilities to learn and grow through sports and activities. To him, the class is more than just P.E.—it’s a family.

Unified P.E. follows the same structure as a typical physical education class, with some modifications based on students' needs. “I think a lot of people tend to distance themselves from students with special needs because they don't think they can communicate, but once you work with them, you realize you can form a connection—you can be friends with them.”

Connor has also been involved with the Penguin Project, a theater program where students of all abilities are paired with mentors to perform in productions. Watching his classmates take the stage and seeing the joy it brings them is incredibly meaningful to him. “Having these opportunities for students of all abilities creates a safe space where everyone feels included.”

This is Connor’s first year in Unified P.E., and he was encouraged to join by friends who were already in the class. He describes it as an accepting and supportive environment where he has learned so much about empathy, communication, and different abilities. “I think being in this class teaches you empathy—learning that it’s not a disability, it’s another ability. It’s about empathy and togetherness.”

One of his favorite memories from the class was during the swim unit when he saw his friend Amelia beaming with joy in the pool. “She was smiling so much and laughing. She was so happy. I adore it—getting to see them so happy.”

Outside of Unified P.E., Connor is deeply involved in theater. He played the lead role of Edward Bloom in Big Fish this past winter and participates in forensics and drama club. Though he once feared being on stage, he has now been in over 30 shows. “Having a safe place like this really helps your self-esteem. Being in communities where people are there to help and support you has helped me excel.”

Looking ahead, Connor has a few ideas for his future—musical theater, education, political science, or public speaking—all paths that align with his passion for making an impact and bringing people together.

For those who may not have had the chance to work with students with disabilities, Connor offers this advice: “You always have to be open-minded. Some people are shut off towards people of other abilities, but you can form relationships with them just like anyone else. I have friends with disabilities, and I can talk and joke with them—it shouldn’t be any different from your other friends.”

Above all, Connor values the importance of connection. “It’s really important for teachers to build relationships with students. The teachers who have built those relationships with me have gotten me the farthest because I know I can reach out to them and they want to help me.”

🧪 Sydney is a senior at Sun Prairie West High School, balancing high school life with college-level academics through the STEM Academy at Madison Area Technical College (MATC).

Now in her second year of the program, Sydney applied as a sophomore, going through an approval process and an interview before being accepted. The experience has given her a unique high school journey—while she’s still a Sun Prairie West student, all of her classes take place at MATC. She returns to SPW for track and field and what she calls “the fun stuff.” “You’re still a high school student—you’re just here after school for the fun activities, I like to say.”

Her schedule is different from a traditional high school day, with class times varying instead of the same daily start. This past fall, she tackled a rigorous course load, including Statistics, College Algebra, Environmental Science, and College Spanish II.

Sydney was drawn to the STEM Academy for the opportunity to get a head start on her college journey. “It’s more of a sense of independence—you’re responsible for getting to class on time and getting your homework done. Yes, teachers are there, but they aren’t checking in to make sure you’re doing what you need to do.”

By the time she graduates, Sydney will not only receive her high school diploma but also an Associate of Science degree from MATC—meaning she’ll officially graduate from college before she walks the stage for her high school graduation.

After graduation, she plans to attend Howard University for her undergraduate degree before heading to medical school. The STEM program has helped prepare her for what’s ahead. “My junior year was definitely a big jump from high school,” she says. “I recommend STEM for anyone who is an independent person when it comes to their learning.”

Her biggest piece of advice? Take advantage of the experience and be prepared for the challenges. “At times, it is hard for sure, but enjoy the experience because not many people get to be in college while still in high school. If you decide to do the STEM program, make sure you’re focused and taking ownership of your learning. But overall, you’ll enjoy it—I know I did.”

One of her biggest lessons was learning how to handle finals week. Unlike Sun Prairie, where students don’t take finals, college exams came as a shock. “My first week of finals, I was stressing so bad, but I got through it. Once I did, I knew how to prepare and study for my next round of finals in the spring semester.”

Beyond academics, Sydney has access to invaluable resources at MATC, including free tutoring, a writing center that has helped with her college essays, and counseling services. “It’s really great to know all these resources are here for me, for free, when I need them.”

Looking ahead, Sydney is grateful for the opportunity to be part of the STEM Academy and all the doors it has opened. With college already in motion, she’s ready for what’s next. 🚀

🔨 Dylan is a freshman at Sun Prairie East High School, bringing stories to life from behind the scenes. While actors take the stage, Dylan and the set crew build the world around them—constructing everything from towering backgrounds to intricate props. Recently, that’s meant crafting Jenny’s house, a cannon, and all the structures to support the production of Big Fish.

Dylan’s theatre journey started in 6th grade as an actor in Aladdin Jr. at Patrick Marsh Middle School. “It was meh, alright,” he says. He later performed in James and the Giant Peach with a community theatre group but soon realized acting wasn’t for him. In 8th grade, he gave tech crew a try, joining the lighting team for SpongeBob the Musical Jr.—and that’s where he found his place. “It was cool and fun,” he says, and he’s been involved in the technical side of theatre ever since.

What he enjoys most about set crew is the hands-on work. “I don’t really like being on stage. I like making sure things look good.” Seeing a production come to life gives him a sense of pride. “On opening night, I look at the stage and think, ‘Hey, I built that. If I didn’t build it, it wouldn’t be there.’ It makes me feel proud and happy to help out.”

Dylan is also in General Woodworking, where he’s learning skills that carry over into set building—cutting backgrounds and props, mastering measurements, and growing confident with power tools. “Reflecting on where I started, as an actor in 6th grade, I wouldn’t have had anything to do with a saw.”

While Dylan plans to pursue marine biology, he sees set crew as something he does for fun, with skills that are valuable in everyday life. “I’ve learned how to build stuff, make stud walls, and work a spotlight.” One of his favorite projects so far? The cannon for Big Fish. “After we finished building it, I was the first person to lay on it for a picture.”

Set crew might be a small group, but Dylan says, “It’s a solid group.” He looks forward to working with the lighting team during tech week, when everything starts coming together with the cast. Until then, he keeps building, designing, and making theatre magic happen—one set piece at a time. 🎭

🎶 Asha is a senior at Sun Prairie West High School, and music has been part of her life for as long as she can remember. She’s been playing the flute for eight years, performing in band, wind ensemble, the honors woodwind quartet, and WYSO (Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestra).

Though she first started with piano, it didn’t quite click—but her mom encouraged her to stick with an instrument. That’s when she picked up the flute, and she hasn’t looked back since.

The best part of Sun Prairie’s music program, Asha says, is the passion. “Everyone is so involved, and it makes it really special to be part of a program where everyone loves what they’re doing.”

Music has given her more than just technical skills—it’s given her a community. “I'm really glad I get to play beautiful music with people who are my friends.” Some of her favorite memories come from playing in the pit orchestra for Sun Prairie’s musicals, including Beauty and the Beast and Seussical.

One of her most memorable pieces to perform was Aerobisque. “It had really good energy, and everyone was really excited about it.” She’s also had incredible opportunities to grow as a musician, from working with Dr. Teepole at UW-Madison to playing in chamber groups and orchestras at Birch Creek in Door County.

Sun Prairie’s music program has shaped her future. She plans to study music in college, and she knows the foundation she’s built here will support her every step of the way. “Because of my foundation in Sun Prairie and the music program, I’ve gotten to explore so many other musical opportunities like being in WYSO and chamber groups, going to Birch Creek in Door County, and playing in an orchestra up there. I’m really grateful to be in Sun Prairie and the music program because it has helped me on my musical journey.”

She’s especially grateful for the support of Sun Prairie’s music teachers, like Mr. McVeigh, whose passion and encouragement have made a lasting impact. “The music teachers at SP, especially Mr. McVeigh, have supported me a lot through my journey. They are the most incredible people, and their passion is contagious. It’s really fun being part of a program with really supportive and fun people.”

Asha is ready to take the next step in her musical journey, and she knows Sun Prairie’s music program has given her everything she needs to succeed. 🎵

🤟Keena is a sophomore at Sun Prairie West High School, currently exploring American Sign Language (ASL) and has been part of the ASL club for three weeks. Growing up, Keena’s mom tried to teach her sign language. While her mom isn’t fluent, she’s always embraced positivity and kindness—traits Keena also carries with her. ASL has become a way for them to connect, share new things, and communicate creatively.

The best part about the ASL club, Keena says, is discovering how creative it is. ASL isn’t just about hand signs; it’s also about tone and facial expressions. "I feel more positive, knowing I am trying and putting in effort to understand others. I enjoy making people feel comfortable and helping them," she says. Learning these skills has deepened her understanding of communication and will help her serve people, especially those who are deaf.

Before joining the club, Keena could only sign the ABCs and "thank you." Now, she’s expanding her knowledge and skills, which she believes will open up job opportunities in the future. Keena has also been learning Spanish since 6th grade and plans to continue in college, with the goal of becoming fluent. A major reason for learning both Spanish and ASL is Keena’s desire to communicate directly with her future clients, without them needing a translator. She wants to listen to her clients, understand them, and make them feel heard and valued.

Understanding that effective communication is key to her future as a psychologist, Keena dreams of opening a family therapy practice to help families navigate challenges like divorce. She plans to major in psychology and business marketing to gain the skills needed to run her own practice, combining her love for helping others with her desire to break down communication barriers. “I feel like being a psychologist won't only heal the inner me, but others as well, which brings joy to me.”

Keena is excited to continue connecting with others by deepening her understanding of ASL and Spanish. She feels incredibly grateful for the support and kindness of her teachers, whose encouragement has made a meaningful impact on her learning experience.

 Sravan is an 8th grader at Central Heights Middle School with a passion for hands-on learning in Tech Ed. Encouraged by his father, Sravan took the class last year and enjoyed it so much that he decided to continue this year. He loves working on both school and personal projects, gaining skills in rough measurements, wood types, aerodynamics, and using various machines.

In class, Sravan has created cutting boards, cars, pens, puzzles, and a motor. His favorite project was the cutting board, where he researched the wood type, processed the material to the right dimensions, glued and sanded the pieces, and finished with a protective lubricant and polish. He never thought he could make a cutting board before, but was proud of his accomplishment.

Sravan has also built two cars in Tech Ed, including an air-pressured car. For this project, he designed a blueprint, selected wood, and shaped the car with a bandsaw. He learned that car shape affects performance: “If you want your car to go fast, it should be skinny like a needle.” He tested the car with an air-pressure tool.

In the future, Sravan hopes to pursue biological or nuclear engineering, with a growing interest in aerodynamic engineering sparked by his work in class. He also applies physics outside of school, like in baseball, where he uses his understanding of angles and force to improve his game.

Sravan appreciates the opportunities and projects that make him feel accomplished. Mr. Block, his teacher, has been supportive, encouraging Sravan to explore his personal projects and work independently.

✨ Caroline is a 4th-grader at Northside Elementary and a member of the POETICS Club (Poets Of Every Type, Inspiring & Changing Society), a Sun Prairie Community Schools initiative which she describes as a fun space to express herself through poetry and go on exciting field trips. She joined last year after a friend encouraged her, and it’s her first club experience.

Her favorite field trip was a walk to The Gathering Place, a vibrant Airbnb where they created poetry inspired by nature and colorful decor. Other memorable experiences include writing poems about scarecrows in Downtown Sun Prairie and performing at Wetmore Park.

Caroline’s favorite part of the club is performing in cool places. Her favorite performance was at the Boys and Girls Club for the MLK Showcase on January 20th. She and a friend got to recite the opening lines of a poem, which was one of her favorite opportunities. Before performing, she felt confident and excited, knowing that people were there to hear her. “A lot of people were happy to see young kids like us. It’s really cool that we can perform and even be on the news,” she says. She felt proud and knew her parents would be too.

Since joining POETICS, Caroline has improved her handwriting, writing speed, and public speaking skills. She’s now more comfortable speaking in front of groups, something she once struggled with. “I know I can perform in a large crowd,” she reflects, proud of how far she’s come and excited for future performances.

Though only in 4th grade, Caroline dreams of becoming a civil rights activist or a lawyer. “I have that confidence too, and I can do that too,” she says, inspired by the videos she watches in class and the role models she admires.

“POETICS is so fun—you get to meet new people, perform, and try new things,” says Caroline. While performing in front of a crowd isn’t for everyone, she encourages others to give it a try. Excited for the opportunities 4th grade brings, Caroline loves seeing how much she’s grown through her POETICS experiences. Her advice for anyone nervous about performing: “It’s okay, you got this. Even if you're scared, just remember—you’re an amazing star!”

🫶 Haleigh is a senior at Sun Prairie East High School and is actively involved in UPE (Unified Physical Education) and Una Voce (Unified Choir). This is her first year in UPE and her second year in Una Voce. Having worked with many students in these programs before, she feels these experiences have helped strengthen her relationships with them. Both of these classes are adapted for students of all abilities.

Haleigh sees it as a valuable learning opportunity, especially for the “buddies” in the class—student leaders who assist in running the unified programs. Through these roles, buddies learn to communicate in diverse ways. Haleigh believes these skills are essential for high schoolers, as they help them connect with a broader range of people, both during and after their school years.

She enjoys working with these students, emphasizing the importance of caring for them just as much as they care for those supporting them.

Outside of UPE and Una Voce, Haleigh is involved in high school and club softball, as well as choir. Haleigh is committed to Wisconsin Lutheran College, where she plans to play softball and study pre-law, with hopes of attending law school afterward.

Her favorite part of the experience is seeing the students have fun. Making them laugh, smile, and feel included in everyday activities has been the most rewarding part for her.

“People who take these classes are learning how to communicate and view the world differently. It means a lot to ensure these kids feel included in things everyone else gets to do."

She also speaks highly of Ms. Winter and Mr. Higley, noting that they are great role models. She believes that the program excels in making everyone feel included. Haleigh appreciates how the district fosters inclusivity. “No matter where you come from, your background, or who your family is, if you want a place where you’ll feel included, this is the place to be.”

Haleigh closes by saying, “They are the sweetest kids you’ll ever meet. Just saying hi will make their day.”

🎓 Naaliyah, a 12th grader at Sun Prairie West, is a tutor and student in the AVID program. She tutors 7th, 9th, and 10th graders, guiding them through challenges she once faced. Reflecting on her journey, Naaliyah has a strong connection to the students she mentors. “When I was their age, I wished there was someone who looked like me in that mentor role. Seeing people of color in these positions makes me feel warm inside like I’m giving a hug to my inner child-self,” she says.

As a mentor, Naaliyah understands the importance of relatability. “When you’re just a couple of years older, they can relate to you more. High school flies by, and soon these students will be in my shoes. I want them to feel seen and understood,” she shares.

Naaliyah appreciates that AVID gave her a tight-knit network of friends, some she’s had since middle school. “It’s like a family,” she says. She also volunteered at Westside for “Read Your Heart Out,” sharing her experiences with younger students. The program has also helped her discover her passions and given her the confidence to pursue higher education.

Naaliyah is committed to UW-Milwaukee, where she plans to major in Business Administration, study real estate, and minor in Health Science with an interest in dermatology. Her passion for dermatology grew from a program called CEO’s of Tomorrow, which helped her launch a skincare business, and earned her a scholarship. “That experience made me realize I wanted to go to college and gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams,” she explains.

Naaliyah is grateful for the opportunities AVID has provided, from scholarships to college tours. “I didn’t know UW-Milwaukee was for me until I toured the campus. Seeing the dorms and meeting people there made me feel like it was the right place,” she recalls.

“I don’t know where I’d be without AVID,” Naaliyah says. “It has opened so many doors for me. I’m even interning while still in high school, gaining real-world experience.” Grateful for the district’s support, Naaliyah is excited for the future and appreciates the opportunities that have shaped her path to success.

🏠 Bennett is a senior at Sun Prairie West High School with a passion for hands-on learning. This year, he’s been testing his skills by helping build a house, a project he’s worked on since the start of the school year. During the interview, Bennett was working on the siding.

Home Construction is a program that lets students like Bennett learn the ins and outs of building homes while applying their skills in the field. This is Bennett’s second year in the program, and he’s embraced every part of it. “For me, building and working outside is really nice,” he says, explaining his preference for hands-on work over classroom learning.

This year, Bennett and his classmates have had the opportunity to work with Tim O'Brien Homes, tackling exterior projects and learning from industry professionals. “It’s a really good program and you learn a ton from being in this. Even going through with my second year I am still learning new stuff every day,” he adds. Last year, Bennett participated in a house showcase when they finished building. Families, district members, and the community came to see the completed project. “It was really cool to say, ‘I built this,’” he reflects—an experience few high schoolers get to have.

Outside of school, Bennett is gaining real-world experience in HVAC through a Youth Apprenticeship with North American Mechanical. After high school, Bennett plans to attend MATC for a 2-3 year program.

Bennett is grateful for the opportunities he’s had, especially the flexibility of the Youth Apprenticeship program. “I think its pretty amazing to have the flexibility to come out of school and allow us to do this, and not many schools have a program like this, and not many schools have the Youth Apprenticeship. I talk to my coworkers and they say ‘Man I wish I had something like that in high school.’ The school district helps out a lot with kids like me who enjoy this type of stuff.”

Bennett thanks his teacher, Mr. Johnson, and with his hands-on approach and passion for the trades, Bennett feels on track for a successful future in the industry.

🎙 Kaddy, a 12th-grade student and current president of the Black Student Union (BSU) at Sun Prairie East High School, has been involved with BSU since middle school. As a passionate advocate for people of color, the community has played a key role in shaping her identity and personal growth. For Kaddy, the best part of BSU is being surrounded by peers who share similar experiences and create a safe space to discuss issues affecting Black students and people of color. Through BSU, she has gained the confidence to address city- and state-wide issues and speak on sensitive topics with clarity and comfort. The organization has empowered her to become a vocal, effective advocate for what she believes in.

BSU has opened many doors for Kaddy, including scholarship opportunities and connections to a broader network of like-minded individuals. The sense of community in BSU has given her confidence in her future, knowing she has a strong support system. Kaddy plans to attend a four-year university to study journalism and communications, with the possibility of law school afterward.

Beyond academics, Kaddy values the chance to educate others about the Black experience and the challenges faced by people of color, especially in a predominantly white community. She sees BSU as a platform not only to support her peers but also to promote greater understanding and empathy within the larger community.

This past summer, Kaddy participated in creating a podcast called Xel-Xeeli Academy, where she and her peers interviewed people from Sun Prairie, Madison, and Chicago about their careers, challenges, and paths to success. She views these experiences as part of her journey and feels lucky to have BSU’s support in these efforts.

For Kaddy, BSU has been a defining part of her high school experience, offering support, opportunities, and community. As she looks to the future, she remains committed to using her voice to advocate for herself, her peers, and the causes that matter most to her.

🌱 Maecie, a senior at Sun Prairie West, has been a dedicated member of FFA for three years and serves as Vice President, overseeing CDE (Career Development Events) and LDE (Leadership Development Events) programs. Her FFA journey began unexpectedly after attending a meeting for a potluck. She found a welcoming community and a deep connection to agriculture, especially through her family’s background. Her dad was initially surprised, but they’ve bonded over shared agricultural interests.

As a member of the Floriculture team and a two-year officer, Maecie has grown in confidence, encouraging others to explore new opportunities. FFA has not only connected her to her family’s agricultural roots but also helped her find direction for her future. After high school, she plans to major in nutrition or biology. Through FFA’s diverse programs and conventions, she’s gained valuable insights into nutrition and crop science.

Maecie is currently conducting an independent study on urban food processing, focusing on improving food accessibility in urban food deserts. She’s researching hydroponics and plant genetics to make crops more sustainable for urban environments. At school, she grows lettuce in hydroponic towers, providing fresh greens for the salad bar, and is researching ways to create water- and energy-efficient plants. Her goal is to develop solutions for urban agriculture to combat food insecurity.

Maecie’s time in FFA has helped her grow personally, becoming more confident, socially aware, and service-oriented. Her favorite experience was attending the National Convention in Indianapolis, where she enjoyed meeting new people and learning from diverse perspectives. She encourages anyone curious about FFA to attend a meeting and try something new—just like she did.