Editor’s Note: This is the fourth in a series of 19 stories about last semester’s Principal’s Recognition Award winners who were recognized on Wednesday, Dec. 2 for outstanding achievement in specific programs. Freshman Karen Ponce received the ELL Award and was nominated by Mr. Brett Clish.

Freshman Karen Ponce came from Mexico 5 months ago and is currently excelling in the English Language Learners program and other classes. She was presented the Principal’s Recognition Award for ELL by ELL instructor Mr. Brett Clish.

“I feel, and my colleagues feel, that Karen stands out and is deserving of this award because of her work ethic. Karen is the only Spanish speaker in the class and doesn’t have anyone else to communicate with in her native language. Karen goes above and beyond by making a journal and translating new words that she has learned. She is constantly asking what different words mean and how can they be used,” Clish said.

Ponce loves all her English classes and is pleased with how fast she understanding math.

“I was surprised when I was told I would get this award, but I also worked very hard so I’m happy,” she said.

Ponce, understanding the struggle new students have to go through makes sure she is able to help other students in any way possible.

“Karen is always there to lend a hand and help others as well. There have been multiple times in class that she will stop doing what she is doing in order to help students that are struggling with understanding new concepts,” Clish said.

Previous installment in the Principal’s Recognition Award series

Katrina Nickell  –  http://www.nileswestnews.org/features/principals-recognition-award-katrina-nickell/