Taylor Nickrand, a Woodstock North High School senior, is the daughter of Kim and Westly Nickrand, Woodstock. The teacher who nominated Taylor said she is an extremely funny, caring, and hard working student. “It is a pleasure to work with Taylor and see her excitement when talking about all of her out-of-school activities,” her […]
Luke Zimmerman, a junior at Woodstock High School, is the son of Ann-Marie Zimmerman and Tim Zimmerman of Woodstock. His nominating teacher described Luke as an amazing young man who works hard, participates in class daily, is kind to everyone he meets, and always has a smile on his face. A high honor roll student […]
Fiona Morris, a senior at Marian Central Catholic High School, is the daughter of John and Anne-Marie Morris, Cary. She was nominated by her guidance counselor who wrote, ”Fiona has the unique talent to be serious, silly, responsible, and focused at the same time.” In the top 10 percent of her class, Fiona has […]
Bibiana Bentley, a Woodstock North High School sophomore, is the daughter of Christina Diaz, Woodstock. The teacher that nominated Bibi said she takes everything she does seriously, never doing anything halfway. “She shows grit and determination beyond her years,” her teacher said. She is involved in AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) and is a […]
Kennedy Cordell, a senior at Woodstock High School, is the daughter of Daniel and Jennifer Cordell of Woodstock. Her nominating teacher has had her in multiple art classes and has watched her grow as an artist. He commended her for her work ethic and said she is a joy to work with. A member of […]
Max Astacio, a senior at Marian Central Catholic High School, is the son of Mario and Connie Astacio, West Dundee. He was nominated by his guidance counselor who wrote ”Max is a selfless person. He helps and volunteers for so many different things … being a great leader in many ways.” In the top […]
Rylee Williams, a Woodstock North High School senior, is the daughter of Erin and Shane Williams, Wonder Lake. The teacher that nominated Rylee commented on the extraordinary job she has done as a teaching assistant this semester. “She is always willing to help the underclassmen and is a true role model,” her teacher said. […]
Alex Ryan, a senior at Woodstock High School, is the son of Deann and Patrick Ryan of Woodstock. His nominating teacher wrote, “Alex is an incredibly devoted musician and student. He goes above and beyond in his own practicing so that the ensemble can sound better.” Alex made the Illinois Music Education Association District 7 […]
Ella Conlon, a senior at Marian Central Catholic High School, is the daughter of Sean Conlon, Crystal Lake. She was nominated by her guidance counselor, who wrote that Ella epitomizes Marian – “energetic, involved, all natural leader who always does all of these things with a bright smile on her face.” Ella is a […]
Cade Blaksley, a Woodstock North High School senior, is the son of Jeff and Jennifer Blaksley, Wonder Lake. One of his teachers nominated Cade because of the work he has been doing in Strength & Conditioning class to improve his performance in his varsity basketball and baseball seasons. “He has shown excellent leadership as […]
Larry Lough is editor of The Independent and reports local news.
Janet Dovidio has been a freelance correspondent for The Independent for eight years.
Susan W. Murray wrote for The Independent, covering various beats, from 2005 to 2008.
Tricia Carzoli is a freelance writer and photographer that on community news.
