Fallen Timbers Middle School sixth-grade students, Noah Reese, Evan Ackerman and Riley McNellis were recently recognized at the Ohio Middle Level Association (OMLA) Northwest Region Breakfast of Champions, an event that honors students who exemplify character, scholarship, leadership and service.
Riley McNellis and Evan Ackerman with FTMS Principal, Matt Smith. Noah Reese was unable to attend the awards ceremony.The annual Breakfast of Champions features a keynote speaker, awards ceremony and catered breakfast for honored students, their families and school representatives. During the ceremony, students received a plaque featuring their school photo and teacher’s nomination.
Each student was nominated by a teacher who recognized their dedication and positive influence at school.
“Noah is truly an awesome student who comes to school every day ready to learn, works extremely hard, puts forth his best effort, and is one of our top-performing students,” said Kelly Sonnenberg, Noah’s English Language Arts teacher. “Most importantly, he is kind and respectful and is completely deserving of being recognized for all of his hard work.”
Riley McNellis was nominated by her Math teacher, John Ernsthausen, who praised her exceptional qualities. “Riley is exemplary in every way at school! She works hard and cares about the learning process,” he said. “I also love how Riley treats other students in the building. She impacts everyone she is around!”
Evan Ackerman was nominated by Mary Dressel, his Science and Social Studies teacher who highlighted his leadership and character. “Evan is a phenomenal student who exemplifies everything we hope for in a leader and role model,” she said. “He comes to school every day with a positive attitude, ready to learn, and consistently gives his best effort in everything he does. He makes our school a better place just by being in it.”
In addition to their academic pursuits, the trio is highly involved with extracurricular activities. Riley participates in softball, basketball and soccer, while Evan enjoys soccer and plays the trumpet in band. Noah also plays the trumpet and enjoys wake surfing and boating.
When asked about what keeps them motivated, they emphasized perseverance and self-discipline. “I don’t want to be known as the guy who is always causing trouble. I want to be known for the good stuff,” Evan said. “I’m a soccer player too, and I see that they put in the work and it shows in how they are performing on the field.”
Noah echoed that sentiment, saying “It’s important to maintain a positive reputation.”
Looking ahead, all three students have ambitious goals. Riley hopes to earn more awards in high school and become a team captain in sports. Noah aims to achieve above a 4.0 GPA and even start his own business to save money for college. Evan wants to maintain all A’s and continue excelling in both academics and athletics.
As advice to other students, Noah emphasized the importance of staying on top of schoolwork. “Pay attention in class. Try to get your homework done. Don’t put it off until the last minute. If you miss something, get caught up as soon as you can, because it will start to back up,” he advised.
Riley agreed that time management is important as a student-athlete. “I try to get as much done as I can at school and make efficient use of my time.”
Evan added, “Don’t give up. Continue doing what you want to accomplish your goals.”
Congratulations to Riley, Evan and Noah for being recognized for serving as role models for their peers, through their hard work, determination and kindness!