Like No One Else

🌾 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.