Vote for IndyStar Student of the Week for Jan. 27-31

Each week readers will vote on Central Indiana students who were nominated by their schools for their excellence in the classroom and beyond.

Readers can vote for their favorite student throughout the week at the bottom of this story on IndyStar.com, with polling closing at noon on Thursday, Jan. 30. Winners will be announced every Friday.

This contest aims to introduce readers not just to the student who winds up winning but to all of the highly accomplished nominees.

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Here’s what nominating school leaders had to say about this week’s nominees:

Ethan Olan, a junior at Ben Davis High School. Ethan has been a diamond in the rough, so to speak. He is in his second year in debate. Initially, he would talk over his peers until he learned about the dynamics of discussion and the power of listening well. He has grown tremendously as a forensic student. He excels in both speech and debate activities. He recently won first place in humorous acting and he has placed consistently in congressional debate. In debate class, he is indeed a force to be seen. His passion for his work is contagious. Other students learn from Ethan. His hard work and dedication should not go unnoticed. Ethan Olan is prompt and forever present in the classroom. His debate-formatted speeches have improved. For this, he has begun to be recognized on the statewide circuit as a contender. He is our school’s current leader on the Giant Speakers team with a status of Special Distinction. Yes, our future congressman — Ethan Olan is communicating not only with clarity but with precision as well. We, Giants, are proud of this young man and the great future that he holds.

Ricky Sanders, a senior at Southport High School. Ricky Sanders is an exceptional senior at Southport High School. Ricky was recently crowned Homecoming King. Ricky embodies the respect and admiration of his peers. He is the captain of both the football and track teams, he leads with determination, sportsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to his teammates. Beyond athletics, Ricky is a mentor at Best Buddies, where he supports fellow students with kindness and understanding, exemplifying his passion for helping others. Ricky also excels academically, maintaining an above-average GPA while balancing his leadership roles, a part-time job, and a rigorous schedule. His ability to handle these responsibilities with grace and focus is a testament to his strong character and work ethic.

Tania Marquez, a senior at Herron High School. Tania Marquez is a senior at Herron High School. She has flourished and become a student leader particularly as president of the ArchiFuturae/Architecture Club, providing many new opportunities to local architecture organizations in the Indianapolis community. She is especially proud of being able to provide a greater space for students to be able to express creative and design interests through architecture. The Herron community cannot wait to see where the future takes Tania!

Kevin Lee, a senior at Guerin Catholic High School. Kevin is the epitome of the face of Christ to all he encounters! He is a selfless young man, volunteering not only at GCHS in various ways but also with his family and his parish. He co-founded the Praise and Worship group opening yet another opportunity for the GCHS community to share and spread the Gospel! No matter what he is dealt in the “cards of life,” Kevin faithfully trusts in Providence to guide him through! I witnessed this often as he was my student last year! Kevin’s smile just radiates the love of Christ!

Maloree Green, a junior at Purdue Polytechnic High School Broad Ripple. Junior Maloree Green is student body president, team captain for girls’ basketball, lead manager for boys’ soccer, and a member of our robotics team. Mal exemplifies leadership and school spirit. With a 3.95 GPA and an infectious energy that lights up every room, she truly embodies the essence of what we want PPHS students to be.

Linkin Gaudin, a sophomore at Franklin Central High School. Linkin is an absolute rock star in English 10 Honors! He’s always upbeat, hardworking, and ready to tackle any challenge that comes his way. He has shown amazing time management skills and dedication by balancing his part-time job, extracurricular activities, and a packed course load. His positive energy lights up the classroom and his dedication and effort inspire everyone around him to do their best.

Contact IndyStar K-12 education reporter Caroline Beck at 317-618-5807 or CBeck@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter (X): @CarolineB_Indy.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Vote for IndyStar Student of the Week for Jan. 27-31