Valone in the Spotlight for April

The Reed-Custer High School Senior Spotlight winner for the month of April is Jessen Valone.

Jessen is the son of Thomas and Tonya Valone.

During his high school career, Jessen was involved in World Culture Club, Fall Plays, Spring Musicals, Madrigals, Chorale, Concert Choir, Broadway Revue, Thespians, RC Chatter, Solo and Ensemble, Recycling Club, FCCLA, P.O.P.S., and Academic Challenge Team. He was also a Class Officer, a member of the Golf Team, in the National Honor Society, an Illinois State Scholar, on the High Honor Roll, and participated in the ICE Leadership Conference.

Jessen’s future plans are still undecided, but he will most likely stay local and take General Education classes while he plans for his future.

Here are a few thoughts from Jessen’s teachers.

Mrs. Lee thinks that Jessen is “a great student and person! He has a smile every day and goes out of his way to help others. Jessen is a very hardworking individual and will be successful in all that he does!”

Mrs. Arseneau says that she was “lucky to get to know Jessen this year! He is such a light in the classroom! He is polite, smart, funny and kind. He brings a playful and fun energy to class, which helps make other students comfortable. The learning environment can be so much fun when students get along and are comfortable sharing and talking with their classmates. I feel like Jessen has the ability to do this for any classroom he is a part of. I really enjoyed getting to know him, and am confident that whatever career he pursues that he will succeed!”

Mrs. Leveille is “thrilled for Jessen! I had Jessen as a freshman in our Honors Biology class and the girls were all taller than he was, but that didn't faze him one bit! Jessen is polite and friendly. He was always willing to help others in our class and had a positive attitude. He participated on our Academic Challenge Team last year, and I have been so impressed by his singing abilities that have been showcased in the musicals. He is a talented, bright young gentleman!”

Mrs. Bugg remembers that she had Jessen “during his freshman year. He has always impressed me with his friendly, easy going personality. Last year, he was the corn hole champion in PE class. Love that kid!”

Ms. Chinski appreciates that Jessen “is always friendly and welcoming to others. He is a talented actor and performer. He has a great sense of humor!”

Mrs. Dennis says that Jessen is “an overall fantastic student! He works hard and works well with others. Very talented.”

Ms. Conley is thankful that Jessen “has an extremely kind heart and is full of life! I enjoy having conversations with him about school, his future plans, and life in general. His genuine and sincere demeanor is unmatched.”

Mr. Voris believes that Jessen is “very reliable, creative and a role model for other students. He is a three-year veteran of the Chatter both on screen and working behind the scenes each week to produce the weekly newscast. Jessen is quick to volunteer when something needs to be done and he readily helps other students.”

Mr. Mangan says that Jessen “has been an essential leader in music and theatre. He sets a high example for younger students of how to be welcoming and treat one another with respect. He’s diligent, works hard, and I’ve enjoyed watching his confidence grow as he’s found his niche.”

Mr. Reinbacher thinks that Jessen “has been such a joy to have in the theatre program the past four years. His dedication to his craft and to welcoming younger students will leave an impact on the theatre program for years to come.”

As a final thought, Jessen’s advice to younger students is, “Try to view everything as an opportunity. Create bonds with people while you can because who knows what amazing friendships you could have if you just sat down and talked to someone.”

On behalf of the teachers and staff at RCHS, congratulations to Jessen Valone, April winner of the Senior Spotlight.