City Times Staff

The Stevens Point Noon Optimist Club has honored one local sixth grader as its March Youth of the Month.

Ella VanDeWalle attends McKinley Center Elementary. She is the daughter of Jason and Caren VanDeWalle in Stevens Point.

VanDeWalle was nominated by teacher Kevin Hopp because of her positive attitude and her hard work. VanDeWalle is involved in cadets, student council, volleyball, basketball and running club.

“She is always working to reach her full potential, is considerate and helpful in the classroom, and her academic work is of the highest quality,” Hopp said. “Ella is a role model for other students in her class and at McKinley School.”

The Stevens Point Noon Optimist Club has been honoring local youth through its Youth Appreciation Project for many years, and is the most popular program sponsored by clubs throughout Optimist International. More than 2,000 clubs participate each year.

For the honor, VanDeWalle received a plaque of appreciation and a Portage Co. gift certificate.