Junior Paeton Janis has been named the February Student of the Month at Maȟpíya Lúta, recognized for embodying the values of Wóksape Yuhá (Intellectual Competence) and Waúnšíla (Compassion). Through her dedication in the classroom, commitment to athletics, and kindness toward others, Paeton continues to set a strong example for her classmates.
Paeton approaches each day with focus and responsibility. She consistently comes to class prepared and ready to learn, often beginning her assignments right away without needing reminders. Her organization and planning help her stay on top of both her high school and college coursework.
“I like to keep my class work in separate folders and the homework on my computer in separate groups,” Paeton explained. “This helps me keep track of what I have already finished and what work I need to focus on.”
Her strong study habits also help her manage the additional responsibility of taking dual enrollment classes. Paeton begins her day in a college course and uses her time wisely to stay ahead.
“My first period is dual enrollment, so if I have my college work completed for that day, I will finish some work that’s due in my high school classes in my spare time,” she said. “This helps me stay caught up and ready for each period.”
Outside the classroom, Paeton stays active through athletics. This year she competed in cross country and wrestling, two sports that challenged her both mentally and physically.
“I think cross country was very good for me both mentally and physically,” she said. “It helped me learn how to push myself since it was my first time running distance. It was very hard, but I was thankful to finish the season with a PR, and I’m thinking about continuing it next year.”
Wrestling has also become an important part of her life. Through the sport, Paeton has developed strength, discipline, and confidence.
“Ever since I joined wrestling, it has been a large part of my life. It helped me learn how to eat right and stay fit. It also taught me that I’m stronger than I thought I was,” she said. “If I hadn’t done sports, I wouldn’t be as strong mentally or physically.”
Paeton’s impact extends beyond academics and athletics. She is known by teachers and classmates as someone who treats others with respect and kindness, always willing to help those around her.
“It’s important to me to be a positive example for my classmates because I want to make other people’s day better,” Paeton said. “School and sports are already hard, and it would be worse if everyone walked around miserable. I think happy people can make more people happy, and I want to do that for my friends.”
Her teachers describe her as a thoughtful and compassionate relative who consistently speaks to others with kindness and respect. Through her attitude and actions, Paeton reflects the values that Maȟpíya Lúta strives to build in its students.
As she looks ahead, Paeton also hopes to encourage younger students who are beginning their own high school journey.
“High school will never be easy, but giving up will only make it harder,” she said. “Persevering and putting yourself out in the world will help your future and help you reach your goals. Also, surrounding yourself with people who lift you up is how you grow.”
Through her commitment to learning, determination in athletics, and compassion toward others, Paeton Janis truly represents the spirit of Wóksape Yuhá and Waúnšíla, making her a deserving choice for February Student of the Month at Maȟpíya Lúta.