I have been nominated Southern Ute Tribal Student of the Season for Fall. My name is Zaliyah Bluestar and I attend Ignacio Elementary School, where I am a first grader. My mom is Daisy Bluestar. I enjoy math and specials; my favorite subject is math. My positive role models are Mrs. Herrera and Miss M. When I grow up, I would like to be a Police Officer. Southern Ute Education Teacher Comments: “Zaliyah is a delightful student, and this is her second year joining me for after-school tutoring. She is a hard worker with a positive attitude who is excited to learn and accept new challenges. Zaliyah is kind to her classmates and respectful to her teachers. I enjoy her infectious laughter and her kind, gentle spirit. She is a joy to have in my classroom!” Mrs. Krispin said. Classroom Teacher Comments: “Zaliyah is a very sweet girl who shows respect and kindness to her teachers and peers daily. She has a nurturing heart and is always helping someone out, whether it is helping tie their shoes, helping them with schoolwork, reading them a story, or cheering them up. Zaliyah brings joy to our classroom. She also comes to school each day ready to listen and learn. I am grateful that she is part of my classroom.” Mrs. Herrera said. Family Comments: “Zaliyah is a loving sister. She helps keep the family in line with her supportive directives. She looks out for everyone and has a big heart. She helps her mom clean house, do dishes and cook. Zaliyah is our beautiful baby sister ‘Z’”.

I have been nominated Southern Ute Tribal Student of the Season for Fall 2022. My name is Neeka Howe and I attend Ignacio Middle School, where I am a sixth grader. My parents/guardians are mom Shyida Howe, dad Jake Ryder, and stepmom Mariah Peña. I most enjoy the people I’ve met at middle school and my favorite subjects are science, math, and history. My positive role models are Mrs. Burch, my older sister Torrica Howe and my mom Shyida Howe. When I grow up, I would like to be a photographer and travel the world. Southern Ute Education Teacher Comments: “It is a pleasure to nominate Neeka for this honor. She is well liked by students and teachers alike and came with glowing recommendations from the IMS teaching and administrative staff,” Public Education Teacher Julie Stone said. Classroom Teacher Comments: “Neeka is enjoyed by all! She demonstrates maturity and many qualities of Character Counts. She is a good friend to others and works hard to keep good grades and has very few absences from school. She is a joy to have in class! Good job Neeka, you are a deserving student and a positive role model to your peers!” Public Education Teacher Julie Stone said. Family Comments: “Neeka has always been very independent and outspoken,” mother Shyida Howe said. “Mae, I am so proud of you and your achievements keep working hard,” sister Torrica Howe said. “Neeka, you are amazing and always thinking of others around you, keep being a leader,” stepmother Mariah Peña said. “You hear my words when I say, ‘be a leader’ and for you to hear me means a lot in today’s world of technology,” father Jake Ryder said.

I have been nominated Southern Ute Tribal Student of the Season for Fall 2022 because of “My positive attitude and growth in her academics.” My name is Amaira Brown Watts and I attend Ignacio High School where I am a tenth grader or sophomore. Lunch is what I like the best about school and my favorite subject is lunch. Southern Ute Education Teacher Comments: “Amaira always has a smile on her face and a positive attitude when I see her. She has shown improvement with her schoolwork. I am proud of her growth in her academic success,” Public Education Tutor, ShaRay Rock said. Classroom Teacher Comments: “Amaira is always a joy to have in classes. She has shown progress in her academics,” ShaRay Rock said.