Northern Lights Public Schools is pleased to celebrate Tristan Whitford as this month’s Student Shining Star for his demonstration of kindness, dedication, and empathy within the school community.
Upon meeting Tristan, a Grade 8 student at Kikino School, one is immediately struck with his sense of quiet humility and compassion.
“When you speak with Tristan, he will always greet you warmly, ask how you are doing, and remember your name,” said Educational Assistant Denise White, who works closely with Tristan at Kikino School. “He’s a great leader, especially for the younger students at the school, who love him so much. He’ll always give them high fives when they meet in the halls, and make sure that they feel welcome and loved. He has such a special talent for making others feel cared for.”
“Tristan views the world in a different way than other people, and makes it a priority to demonstrate to others that he sees them, understands them, and appreciates them,” said Kikino School Principal Laurie Thompson.
Tristan is the oldest of five children and, in his free time, he enjoys collecting rocks, playing video games, and spending time with his baby brother. He serves as a reminder of the invaluable role of robust support systems within the school, and he illustrates the transformative power of a safe, caring, and inclusive educational environment. His personality reflects the impact of fostering a school setting where every student feels valued, empowered, and capable of reaching their fullest potential.
“Tristan contributes as a positive school culture leader every day, all day long,” Thompson said. “He is a role model and an advocate that all people can and should treat others through the eyes of the grandfather teachings of love, respect, truth, wisdom, honesty, bravery, and humility. He is an example and a leader in ways that are uniquely special to him.”
Tristan Whitford is the Northern Lights Public Schools Student Shining Star for the month of April. Each month during the 2023-2024 school year, NLPS is featuring different Shining Stars and celebrating their contributions and accomplishments.