In the Spring of 2019, the London City School District published its Portrait of a Graduate, which highlights the key skills and attitudes necessary for district graduates to have success in college and careers. Our district uses the Portrait of a Graduate to help design meaningful teaching and learning experiences for our students.
The following students were recognized during the December Regular Board of Education meeting for substantially demonstrating the district’s Portrait of a Graduate. Congratulations to each of these students!
Kaley Blair (4th Grade) - London Elementary School
To those who don’t know her story, Kaley Blair could appear as any hard-working student here at London Elementary School. However, after facing many obstacles over the past few years she knows more than most what it takes to work hard and make up a lot of ground in her education.
Now, as a fourth-grade student, her hard work has allowed her to conquer these challenges on her path to graduation. Kaley is an energetic, kind, and caring student. She is a bright spot each day for those she comes in contact with. Kaley always comes to school willing and wanting to learn. She is respectful to her classmates and teachers. Kaley has learned to be flexible and she can persevere through the new challenges in her path. Kaley has shown through her determination, hard work, and the support of an amazing woman, that she can be successful both in school and throughout her life.
With the continued support of her family and teachers, Kaley’s goals in life will be limitless. Those who know her and have watched her grow over the years, watch out, because she is just getting started!
Wyatt & Owen Davitt (8th) - London Middle School
Wyatt Davett has been actively involved in both marching band and concert band, playing the trombone in each. Throughout his middle school years, Wyatt has maintained an impressive academic record, including participation in honors ELA from 6th to 8th grade, membership in the National Junior Honor Society during his 7th and 8th grades, and consistent inclusion on the Merit Honor Roll for three years. He has also been a member of the Student Council since middle school. Wyatt is a two-time Student of the Month and has served on the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Board for three years, advocating for the representation of his peers.
Beyond academics, Wyatt has played basketball for one year, baseball for two years (describing himself as "far from the best, but not the worst"), and soccer for three years, though he admits that soccer was a struggle. Wyatt enjoys helping his friends with subjects like math and the Bible. He is also an active member of the Youth Group at Maranatha Baptist Church.
Looking ahead, Wyatt plans to attend college to major in welding engineering, with a preference for Liberty University or Cedarville University, both of which align with his Christian faith. If college doesn’t work out, Wyatt is considering joining the military. After retirement, he hopes to start or pastor a small church.
Owen Davitt is a standout in both Concert Band, where he plays the concert baritone, and Marching Band, where he plays the marching baritone. He is an active member of the National Junior Honor Society and has participated in honors ELA throughout his middle school career. Owen has made the honor roll/merit honor roll every year. He enjoys helping his friends with schoolwork, particularly I-Ready and loves playing with 6th graders during recess, whether it's football or a game called Smash Karts.
Outside of academics and band, Owen enjoys being active, working out, and spending time outdoors when the weather is nice. He has been playing baseball for over a year, primarily in the outfield, and humorously admits to playing football or baseball during study hall using paper balls. Owen is also passionate about video games and socializing with friends. He proudly identifies as a Christian.
Looking to the future, Owen hopes to join the Tennessee Volunteers Marching Band in college and plans to pursue a career in the military afterward.
Teacher feedback reinforces the exceptional qualities of Wyatt and Owen. Mr. Billings shares, "Owen and Wyatt are bright young men with incredible potential. They are both well-mannered, polite, and respectful of their peers. Owen and Wyatt possess a zest for reading and learning new things. I also appreciate their self-control in not fooling their teachers by pretending to be one another. I'm excited to see what the future holds for these twin Portraits of a Graduate!"
In conclusion, the Portrait of a Graduate is not just about academic achievement—it’s about developing well-rounded, capable individuals who are ready to thrive in all aspects of life. Wyatt and Owen embody the essential skills and attitudes we strive to cultivate in all our students: effective communication, critical thinking, respect, flexibility, and proficiency in literacy, numeracy, and technology. These qualities will serve them well as they move forward in their academic and professional lives.
Michael Beres (12th) - London Unlimited
The December London Unlimited Student of the Month is Michael Beres, a senior who has been part of the London Unlimited program since 10th grade. Michael has earned multiple seals, including the Citizenship Seal, Community Service Seal, Ohio Means Jobs Readiness Seal, and Industry-Recognized Credential Seal.
While excelling academically, Michael also works full-time for his family’s construction business, Beres Enterprises LLC, which he plans to take over in the future. His industry-recognized credential in Customer Service and Retail Industry Fundamentals is an asset that will support his plans to lead the business.
Michael has applied for early graduation, having successfully completed all high school coursework. He has fully utilized the flexibility of the London Unlimited program to accelerate his learning and achieve his goals.
In his spare time, Michael is an avid hunter, enjoying the outdoors and demonstrating a disciplined approach to his hobbies, much like his academics and work.
Known for his respectful and pleasant demeanor, Michael is a joy to work with. Whether meeting with staff or stopping by the office, he is always prepared and focused, showcasing the characteristics of a London City Schools Portrait of a Graduate.
Michael Beres is a shining example of determination and excellence, and the district is proud to celebrate his achievements!
Ethan Davitt (12th) - London High School
It is a privilege to nominate Ethan Davitt as London High School's Portrait of a Graduate. Ethan is an exemplary student whose involvement in band and drama highlights his dedication, leadership, and creativity. His contributions as a trumpet section leader, soloist, middle school band intern, and performer in the play Antigone reflect the traits of an outstanding graduate.
Effective Communicator: Ethan is an exceptional communicator, both in his leadership roles and performances. As the trumpet section leader, he guides his peers with encouragement, ensuring the group works cohesively. His ability to convey emotion and meaning through music is evident in his solo performances, working to help the band meet the marks set in rubrics as observed by judges. In Antigone, Ethan demonstrated his ability to communicate complex emotions and ideas through his acting, further showcasing his versatility as a communicator.
Critical, Creative Thinker, and Problem Solver: Ethan approaches challenges with creativity and critical thinking. As a soloist and section leader, he refines musical interpretations, blending technical skills with artistic creativity. His role in the drama play required him to analyze the script deeply, understand the motivations of his character, and collaborate with the cast and crew to bring the production to life. Additionally, his internship with the middle school band demonstrates his ability to identify and address challenges while mentoring younger musicians.
Respectful to Self and Others: Ethan embodies respect in all areas of his life. He shows respect for himself by dedicating countless hours to perfecting his craft and taking on leadership roles. He treats his peers, directors, and mentees with kindness and patience, fostering an environment of mutual respect and support. His work with middle school students exemplifies his ability to inspire and uplift others, always encouraging them to do their best.
Flexible and Adaptable: Ethan’s ability to adapt is evident in his diverse activities. Balancing the demands of band, drama, and academics requires flexibility, and Ethan handles these responsibilities with poise. Whether adjusting to the dynamics of a live performance or navigating the complexities of mentoring younger musicians, Ethan demonstrates remarkable adaptability.
Skilled in Literacy, Numeracy, and Technology: Ethan’s proficiency in literacy is reflected in his ability to analyze scripts and interpret music scores, while his understanding of numeracy is evident in the technical precision required for his musical performances. He also uses technology effectively to enhance his skills, from utilizing digital tools to refine his musical technique to collaborating on creative projects.
Ethan's teacher shares- Ethan Davitt is a genuinely kind, passionate, and caring person. He always helps others around him, is an active listener, and is a phenomenal leader among his peers and with the middle school students that he teaches. He leads by example, models behaviors of others well above his age, and does so when others are not looking. He is passionate about what he does and works hard for all of his achievements inside and outside the classroom.
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