The Student Council of Gowanda High School named eight outstanding Panthers as Students of the Month for October.

Honorees are selected based on the following attributes – collaboration, communication, critical thinking and creativity – otherwise known as The Four C’s. These skills and characteristics are central to the district’s mission and values.

— Norah Tadt for collaboration: “Norah demonstrates collaboration during physical education by working with everyone in her class. She is patient and kind during each unit as well as helpful to her classmates who need it. Norah has been a great role model in class!” said Courtney Aldrich and Tim Denea, physical education teachers.

— Zander Hammond for creativity: “Zander goes above and beyond with every creative decision in class! He is constantly working hard and providing assistance to others while demonstrating new and unique techniques. Zander has also been a huge help with Art Club and coming up with new ideas for the yearbook design that we are collaborating with!” said Shelby DeSantis, art teacher.

— Ava-Carmella Valone for communication: “Ava-Carmella Valone has truly distinguished herself as an outstanding student and a positive force in our classroom community. She exemplifies what it means to be academically engaged – bringing thoughtful questions, insightful answers, and genuine enthusiasm to every U.S. History discussion. Ava’s strong communication skills allow her to articulate complex ideas with clarity and confidence, inspiring her classmates to participate more deeply in our exploration of historical events and issues. Her upbeat, friendly, and approachable communicative skills make her a natural leader and a valued peer, always ready to help others and contribute to a supportive, encouraging learning environment. Her energy and curiosity make the content we’re exploring engaging for everyone,” said David Bohn, social studies teacher.

— Grant Berry for communication: “Grant consistently participates in class discussions, always puts forth his best effort, and isn’t afraid to ask for help when he needs it. His positive attitude and willingness to engage in class make him a great example of what it means to be an active communicator!” said Randi Dauoheuang, math teacher.

Maddison Smith for communication: “Maddison is a dedicated Spanish 5 student who consistently puts forth her best effort. She has challenged herself and made tremendous progress in her public speaking skills in Spanish. She now expresses herself clearly and confidently, frequently speaking in front of the class. Even though it isn’t her favorite activity, she demonstrates poise and knowledge of the content every time she speaks. Maddison is a fantastic student,” said Barb Dempsey, language teacher.

— Casen Lemke for critical thinking: “Casen is a model student in Earth Science class. Not only does he have a wonderful sense of humor, he always deeply considers any questions asked, and then thoughtfully responds, utilizing his prior knowledge, combined with what he is learning in class. The essence of critical thinking! Keep up the good work, Casen said Mr. Barto, science teacher.

Liz Malek for critical thinking: “Liz Malek is a student in my True Crime class. She brings an analytical approach to her class work, particularly about how people can intelligently consume true crime content and also about what it takes to solve a complicated case. Liz’s work is thorough and insightful. She focuses on details — just like any good investigator.” – Ms. Lauren Giancola, English teacher.

— Zach Monnin for critical thinking: “Zach has grown as both a student and as an individual over the two years that I have known him. He has begun to take initiative and ownership of his learning, demonstrating greater self-discipline and self-responsibility. Instead of reacting impulsively, Zach now takes the time to analyze situations, weigh potential outcomes, and make well-reasoned decisions. This intellectual maturity has led to more productive interactions and a greater sense of accountability,” said Brian Hahl, teacher.