Milbank Educators Rising Members Celebrate College Signings, Future in Teaching

Ryan Keeton, Yanderyn Oliveras Zuniga, and Braylen Bowsher each took a giant step forward in pursuing a career in education, and the MIlbank chapter of Educators Rising (ER) held a Signing Day to celebrate their decisions. 

Keeton and Oliveras Zuniga signed papers declaring their intention to obtain a teaching degree at Northern State University in Aberdeen. Bowsher cemented his plans to attend the University of Jamestown in Jamestown, North Dakota. 

During the event at MHS, Superintendent Justin Downes said, “For many of the students signing today, this journey started with a teacher – a teacher who took the time to listen, a teacher who believed in them when they needed it most, a teacher who made learning come alive or simply made school a place where they felt like they belonged.”  

“Today, we are seeing the result of that influence,” he added. “We are seeing students who have been so impacted by their teachers that they now want to provide that same experience for others. To our future educators, that is both an incredible opportunity and a great responsibility.”

Nikki Stengel, a teacher and the adviser of ER at MHS, said, “Teaching is more than a job. It is a commitment to shaping the future. Every teacher in this building and every staff member plays a role in guiding, supporting and inspiring students each and every day.”

Stengel reminded the group that every doctor, mechanic, business owner, and community leader starts in the classroom. “The impact of education does not stop at graduation. It continues into families, careers, and entire communities.”

“Perhaps more importantly, education matters because of the people who chose to dedicate their lives to it,” she said. “Teaching is not always easy, but it is always important. It requires patience, compassion, creativity and heart.”

Stengel also spoke directly to the students saying, “Your decision to go into education is powerful. You are choosing to invest in others. You are choosing to lead, to inspire, and to make a lasting impact. That’s why education matters, and that is why today matters. “ 

Senior ER members also addressed the six guests, each of whom were notable for making a difference in the life of one of the students. Each student read a letter they had composed to express their gratitude.

Honorees:

Jackson Graf
Mr. Graf, I wanted to thank you for the positive attitude and the chill vibe you bring to the classroom every single day. Because of you, I’ve actually become more interested in education. I still remember back in sixth grade when you used to host your famous “fiestas”. I’ll be honest: I actually thought they were real parties for awhile, until I realized that was just your clever way of getting us to study! Thank you for making learning something to celebrate. I appreciate everything you do, and I am sure the other students feel the same.
Yanderyn Oliveras Zuniga

Logan Diede
I wish there was a way to thank you enough for all that you’ve done for me during my high school career. I probably wouldn’t have played basketball all four years if it wasn’t for you. I just knew there was no way I would quit because I wanted to play for you more than I even wanted to play basketball. I hope to be as real and honest as you have been throughout knowing you to my own students so that they know and understand I’m so painfully human that I hardly know what I’m doing. They don’t have to have the whole world figured out. I don’t either, but you have helped me figure out a lot that I wouldn’t have known otherwise. Thank you!
Bray Bowsher

Pam Nelson
This is to show you how much I appreciate what you do at the school and at Runnings. You are such a hard worker at both places, so I think it is time you receive a thank you. Thank you for all you do!
Krista Nies

Brian Allmendinger
Thank you for making learning more fun and enjoyable. Your stories and sarcastic comments always made coming to school so early less dreadful. The seniors are so lucky that we got to spend our last year of high school with an amazing teacher like you. Thank you for all you have done.
Elyssa Tomac

Laura Dallman
Thank you for being the best second grade teacher ever. You’ve helped me in so many ways throughout the years, from being a reference for my very first job, to helping me earn scholarships. To me, you have been more than just a teacher. You have been someone I can look to in times of need. Thank you for the impact that you have had on my life.
Elyssa Tomac

Mick Thompson
Thank you for everything you’ve done for me, not only as a football coach, but also as a teacher and mentor. You pushed me to be better everyday, whether it was on the field, in the classroom, or as a person. The lessons you’ve taught go way beyond coaching, and I know they’re things I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life. I appreciate the time, energy, and dedication you’ve put into helping me succeed. Thank you for being someone I can look up to and learn from.
Ryan Keeton

Family Photos-