For this week’s Male Student of the Week, the Palisade Paw Post highlights Aron Clara Ortega’s hard work and recent admittance into the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program (DP). As a sophomore, Ortega showcases strength and determination through several aspects such as improving his English with Palisade’s English Language Development (ELD) courses.
Palisade High School is a space for a diverse range of students to explore their identities and interests. Ortega joined the Bulldog pack mid last year from Mexico. Considering his short time at Palisade, he has flourished due to his well rounded skill set. “My favorite classes are Algebra, Spanish and Comp. In Spanish, I can express myself. In Comp, I am learning and practicing my English. Finally, I just love math,” explains Ortega. “I am working hard with everything. I am working on my English everyday, trying to get better, and helping people too,” he adds. During ELD, Ortega can be found popping around from table to table, helping every kid in every subject.
Ortega applied for the IB Program and joined mid last year. IB Coordinator Kim Popick comments, “When he was applying for IB, other teachers were highly complimentary about his character and care and concern for all kids in the community to be successful.”
Although Ms. Popick and Ortega’s individual interactions have been limited, she observes, “He personally mentors any of our native Spanish speakers in all different subjects. He really serves as a bridge for those who are struggling to meet the demands of their classwork on top of improving their English language skills. I’ve admired that about him.”
Ortega’s humble and positive attitude has striked and touched the hearts of many teachers and classmates, validating his position as Student of the Week. Most Palisade students possess drive and determination but Ortega’s commitments go above and beyond. Ms. Popick concludes, “When he applied to IB, I thought it was a real testament to his tenacity and desire to continue to grow himself as a student, despite the fact that he has additional obstacles he has to overcome, like learning an additional language.”
Ortega’s favorite thing about Palisade High School is how “the teachers feel empathy with the students and can understand them. You can build relationships with them and express any problems you have.”
Congratulations Aron Clara Ortega for winning this special honor, keep up the good work!
