The Mineral Point Kiwanis Club honored its October Students of the Month at its meeting Tuesday, October 1.
The students, who are members of the Senior class, are selected for this honor through a voting process by staff at the high school, and their biographies are written by themselves.
Ella Kroll
Ella Kroll is the middle child of Troy and Becca Kroll. She has one older brother, Carson, who has already graduated, and a younger sister, Chloe, who still attends the Mineral Point Unified School District. Ella was born in Dodgeville in 2007 and has grown up living outside of Mineral Point her entire life where she enjoys country living.
Ella has been on student council all four years of high school and is a current member of the National Honor Society. She takes great pride in her schoolwork and was named Freshman Student of the Year. Her hard work in the classroom has been reflected by being named to the High Honor Roll every semester she has been in high school so far. She has been involved with extracurriculars like Skills USA, Key Club, Future Business Leaders of America, and Blue Crew. Ella was privileged to be named Mineral Point’s Prom Queen last spring and is a Queen Candidate for this year’s Homecoming festivities. She is grateful for the opportunities this school district has provided and the community she lives in.
Sports have been a part of Ella’s life since she was little. She’s a three-sport athlete playing volleyball, basketball, and softball. She has received the Academic All-State Award in every varsity season she has participated in. She was a member of the Girls Basketball State Championship team in 2022, which is still one of her favorite memories she has of high school. In addition, Ella has played club softball with Southwest Storm since she was 10 and just finished up her last summer with a fun and successful team. She was named a captain during this past softball season and for the upcoming basketball season. Her leadership development was greatly influenced by those who came before her and she is thankful for the relationships that sports brought her.
Outside of school and sports, Ella has been employed at Lands’ End for the past two summers, as well as cleaning a local Airbnb and babysitting for several families. She enjoys spending free time with her family and friends.
After high school, Ella hopes to continue her education at Viterbo University in the Nursing program for her undergrad. In the long run, she hopes to attend graduate school to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. She is excited to explore the opportunities that college offers.
Ella would like to congratulate her longtime friend Lila on being named October’s Student of the Month; she is so happy that we get to share this moment together. She would like to thank her teachers for pushing her to be the best version of herself. She especially wants to thank Mrs. Erika Brunson for all her guidance this past year, Mrs. Kristin Staver for her continued support, and Mr. Tom Steger for sparking her interest in human biology. She would also like to thank Kiwanis for organizing this luncheon. Lastly, Ella would like to thank her parents, grandparents, family, and friends for helping her be the person she is today.
“Ella is a standout Senior known for her exceptional leadership and hard work. She consistently goes above and beyond in both academics and extracurricular activities. Her kindness shines through as she supports her peers, always offering a helping hand or a comforting word. She embodies what it means to be a friend, and her infectious sense of humor brings joy to those around her. I feel incredibly lucky to have gotten to know Ella throughout her time in the Mineral Point School system, and I look forward to seeing her success after graduation. I am so proud of you, Ella Kroll!” ~ Mrs. Amanda Ingwell, 4K Teacher
“Ella Kroll came to Kindergarten so many years ago, fresh and ready to learn. She has always kept that enthusiasm for learning and has added many more fine traits to her repertoire. Ella is not only an all-around good student, she also participates in sports and other extracurricular activities. Whether you are watching her on the volleyball court, basketball court, or in the classroom, you get to witness her success. It’s not a surprise she would be chosen for Student of the Month! Congratulations, Ella! I wish you all the best in your Senior year and in choosing your next steps in life!” ~ Mrs. Jill McGuire, Kindergarten Teacher
“Congratulations, you are so deserving of this recognition. You have accomplished so much in the three years and made a big impact on your school and community. Your hard work, positive attitude, and willingness to help others truly set you apart. I have no doubt that you are going to go on to do great things. Keep up the good work!” ~ Mr. Jason Smith, High School English Teacher
“Ella, I have so enjoyed getting to know you through book clubs and media. Your willingness to help out and get the job done has been so appreciated. You have made such a positive impact on our school through your kindness and work ethic. I know these skills will take you far. I wish you the best as you finish up this year and set out on new adventures.” ~ Mrs. Kris McCoy, Middle/High School Librarian
“Ella Kroll consistently demonstrates outstanding leadership and commitment to fostering a positive environment within our school. Her positive attitude, ability to engage with her peers, and encouragement to others sets her apart as a role model. Ella’s enthusiasm, dedication, and supportive nature make her an invaluable member of our school. We are proud to recognize her as Student of the Month. Best of luck as you take on your next adventure.” ~ Mr. Matt Austin, High School Principal
“‘The difference between something good and something great is attention to detail.’ I am sure Miss Ella Kroll is the stand-out student, individual, and athlete she is because of her relentless attention to detail. I have been blessed to have Ella as part of my world as a student, a student council member, and a leading role in Pointer Media. For the last four years, she has become my ‘go-to girl’ because of her dependability and mature demeanor. Ella’s character, positive attitude, and leadership will definitely continue to take her far in life. I can’t imagine saying goodbye to this sweet girl, but I am beyond excited to see where the future takes her. Thank you for always being my right-hand girl, Ella! You will be genuinely missed in Staverland!” ~ Mrs. Kristin Staver, High School English Teacher
“When thinking about Ella, two words come to mind…ENDLESS EFFORT! She is the kid on the court that goes all out for every ball and will never give up. A motto we talk about in our program is ‘second touch mentality’ and Ella is the perfect example of someone who will stop at nothing to get that second touch on the ball and get it up. And I mean NOTHING…including bleachers, barn fans, or her own teammates! That quality also translates to her academics as well. Ella is a very dedicated student. She gives endless effort to everything she does. She has taken several college courses to get ahead for her future, which shows her maturity and exceptional work ethic. Ella is a great teammate and works well with others. She is a leader and someone people look up to. I have no doubt that Ella’s career in the health field is going to be spectacular and lead her to a leadership role in the future! I am so happy to have been your coach, and so proud of all you have accomplished on and off the court! Congratulations, Boss Lady!” ~ Mrs. Kari Kabat, Middle School Math Teacher and Head Volleyball Coach
“Ella Kroll is a leader in every sense of the word. Whether on the court, in the classroom, or with her peers, Ella is confident, yet humble. She is a great communicator, responsible, and cares about the well-being of others. Ella, you are wise beyond your years in so many wonderful ways. I see you balance your many activities, high school courses, and college courses with ease and grace. I love watching you work toward your goals and know that your ambitious spirit will take you far in life. I hope you have a wonderful Senior year and I look forward to watching you soar. Congratulations.” ~ Mrs. Erika Brunson, Middle/High School Counselor
Lila Thousand
Lila Thousand is the middle child of Michael and Stacey Thousand. She was born in 2007 and has lived in Mineral Point her entire life. She has one brother, Landon Thousand, who is studying Business at Viterbo University, and three sisters, Halayna, who is in the workforce; Ronica, who is a Sophomore at Mineral Point High School; and Collins who is in 6th grade at Mineral Point.
Lila has been a student at Mineral Point her entire life. During her high school time she has been involved in many extracurricular activities. She is Secretary for the Mineral Point Key Club, an officer for the Environmental Wellness Club, an officer for the Spanish Club, and a Captain for the Mineral Point Forensics team. She is also involved in Mock Trial, Choir, National Honor Society, Musical Theatre, Drama Club, and Future Business Leaders of America. She has been named Junior Student of the Year, Spanish Student of the Year as a Freshman, Sophomore, and Junior years, Biology Student of the Year, and Biology 2 Student of the Year.
One of the main parts of Lila’s high school experience has been musical theatre. Lila has always been passionate about music, whether singing, acting, or playing an instrument. She joined the Musical Theatre Club as a Freshman and decided to be a part of the crew in the musical “Chicago.” For “Chicago,” she was a part of the costume crew, and after watching a few rehearsals and shows, she knew she wanted to be on stage. In her Sophomore year, she was a part of the cast for “The Drowsy Chaperone” where she played Kitty, and in her Junior year, she was a part of the cast for the show “Into the Woods” where she played Little Red Riding Hood. Lila is also a part of this year’s musical “Big Fish” where she will play Sandra.
Outside of school and extracurriculars, Lila works, reads, or hangs out with her friends. She also enjoys watching movies, walking with her parents, and spending time with her two dogs. After high school, Lila hopes to attend a four-year university to major in biochemistry and either double major or minor in neuroscience. After college she hopes to attend medical school to become a doctor or a pathologist.
Lila would like to thank Kiwanis for this honor and congratulate her long-time friend Ella Kroll for also receiving the honor of October Student of the Month. She would also like to thank all of the teachers and staff members at Mineral Point High School for helping her and making her high school experience memorable. She would like to give a special thanks to Mrs. Erin Gomanne and Mr. Tom Steger for helping her uncover her love for the science world, Mrs. Ashley Calderon-McHugh, Mr. Matthew Nevers, and Mr. Jason Smith for giving her many opportunities to portray her love for musical theatre on stage, and Mrs. Erika Brunson for helping her prepare for her future. Finally, she would like to thank her family and friends for always being there and supporting her no matter what.
“Lila is an outstanding Senior, truly deserving of the Student of the Month award. With her kind heart and pride in her education, she excels in both academics and friendships. Lila’s sense of humor brings joy to everyone around her, brightening even the toughest days. She knows what it means to be a true friend and is always ready to help, embodying support and kindness. I feel privileged to know her and can’t wait to see all the amazing things she will achieve. Congratulations, Lila!” ~ Mrs. Amanda Ingwell, 4K Teacher
“I’d like to congratulate Lila Thousand for being one of October’s Students of the Month! Lila has a smile that radiates around her and makes others take notice! She joined Kindergarten with a joyful personality and has kept that joy throughout her school years. Lila’s sense of humor makes those around her happy, which is not always an easy task. As Lila moves on with her future, her academic success along with her vibrant personality are sure to take her far! Best wishes for a bright future, Lila! I’m so happy for you! Have a great Senior year!” ~ Mrs. Jill McGuire, Kindergarten Teacher
“I have had the pleasure of witnessing the growth of Lila Thousand within the Musical Theatre Club during her high school career. Her efforts displayed through crew projects and assignments in ‘Chicago,’ and her fantastic roles in ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’ and ‘Into the Woods’ were truly spectacular. During her Senior year, she will portray another lead role in ‘Big Fish.’ I have enjoyed working with Lila in the High School Choir since she joined her Sophomore year. She has represented the Vocal Music Department well and has participated in the UW-Platteville Honors Choir and SWAL Honors Choir Festivals. I appreciate her sweet personality, wit, creativity, and friendliness towards her peers. Lila’s multiple talents, drive to succeed, and team-mentality will be missed throughout the music department, and will surely take her far in all of her future pursuits!” ~ Mrs. Ashley Calderon-McHugh, Middle/High School Choir Teacher
“Congratulations, Lila, on being named Student of the Month! This recognition is a testament to your dedication and the bright spirit you bring to our school community. Keep shining and inspiring those around you—there’s no limit to what you can achieve!” ~ Mr. Jason Smith, High School English Teacher
“‘Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work.’ Miss Lila Thousand works equally as hard as she is incredibly talented. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Lila in the classroom. Her engagement and desire to learn is what an educator lives for. I can honestly say I even enjoyed her occasional temper tantrum when she may get two wrong out of 100 because she demands perfection. Working with Lila through forensics has been equally rewarding. I loved to pick pieces I knew she would embrace and go all out when others would be too reserved. Once again, Mineral Point High School has been blessed with another multi-talented student performer who makes us the envy of the conference. You will do great things, Dear Girl! I am honored to have been a small part of it.” ~ Mrs. Kristin Staver, High School English Teacher
“Congratulations on being selected as the Student of the Month for October. Lila Thousand shines as a talented individual in the performing arts, consistently achieving excellence in everything she sets her mind to. Her passion and dedication are evident, and her warm, pleasant demeanor makes her a joy to be around. Lila’s creativity and determination inspire those around her, and we are excited for her next chapter. Best wishes.” ~ Mr. Matt Austin, High School Principal
“Lila, it has been such a pleasure getting to know you and working with you in book club and forensics over the years. You are a passionate reader who makes great connections and feels such great empathy. In forensics, your work ethic stands out. You always get the job done, even though you do not always like to show me all of your progress! I wish you all of the best as you pursue your dreams. I know you will make a difference in all you do.” ~ Mrs. Kris McCoy, Middle/High School Librarian
“Lila Thousand is talented, ambitious, and funny. While we have bonded over our love and curiosity of neuroscience, it is her talents and altruistic spirit that set her apart. Lila, I love watching you on stage and look forward to our conversations. You have a wonderful blend of wit and intellect, and these qualities, as well as your talents, have enriched our school. I am grateful to know you and look forward to another fun year with you. Congratulations, Lila, and enjoy your Senior year.” ~ Mrs. Erika Brunson, Middle/High School Counselor
(Kroll photo taken by Shannon Adams, Thousand photo taken by Ann Gorgen)