The Mineral Point Kiwanis Club honored its December Students of the Month at its meeting Tuesday, December 3.
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.
Addison Christopher
Addison Christopher is the daughter of Nathan and Jodi Christopher and has grown up with her two younger siblings, Payton and Jack Christopher. Payton is a Sophomore at Mineral Point High School, while Jack is a 7th grader at Mineral Point Middle School.
Addison enjoys staying busy and is actively involved in a wide range of clubs. She is a dedicated member of Key Club, Future Business Leaders of America, Earthwise Club, Spanish Club, Book Club, and National Honor Society. Addison’s involvement in these clubs reflects her desire to make a meaningful impact, continuously striving for excellence in both her academics and extracurricular activities.
Outside of clubs, Addison has a deep passion for running, participating in both cross country and track. In cross country, Addison has been fortunate enough to be a four-year varsity member, earning Academic All-State honors three times, each time she has made it to State. Throughout her high school career, she has helped her team secure three Conference Championships, three Sectional Championships, and three State qualifications, including a memorable victory as State Champions in 2021. In track and field, Addison has been a varsity member for the past three years, earning third-team All-Conference honors and serving as an alternate for the State 4×8 team for two consecutive years. Her dedication to both sports showcases her exceptional work ethic, teamwork, and commitment to excellence.
Another thing that Addison is devoted to is music. Ever since she was a little girl, music has been like a second language to Addison; she grew up singing with her father, Nate, as he played the guitar. In high school, she continued pursuing her love for music through her involvement in choir and musical theater. In choir, she has participated in the SWAL Honors Choir festival three, soon to be four, times. Last year, she attended Dorian in Decora, Iowa, a festival across many states that allows students to sing with a large vicinity choir. Addison also earned a score of 1 for her solo performance at the Solo and Ensemble Festival last year. Addison also plans to attend the UW-Milwaukee Vocal Arts Festival this year, where she can continue to develop her singing skills and work with other musicians. In musical theatre, Addison has enjoyed participating as part of the cast during her freshman year and as a crew member in subsequent years. Addison’s work with the soundboard earned her a nomination for an Overture Center Jerry Award last year. Addison is deeply grateful for the opportunities that music has provided her.
Next year, Addison plans to attend a four-year college with the goal of eventually pursuing graduate school to major in psychology.
Addison would now like to take the time to thank her friends and family for all they have done to help her succeed. She would like to thank her coaches, directors, and teachers for their guidance and encouragement. She would also like to thank Kiwanis for this incredible opportunity.
Addison would also like to congratulate her fellow Student of the Month, Isabelle Coogan, for all of her hard work and dedication.
“Two words that I would use to describe Addy are genuine and kind, although there are many other superlatives that would well describe her. She is one of the kindest and most authentic students that I have ever had the pleasure of teaching. Your work ethic and dedication to achieving success in and out of the classroom commend you. I have had the extreme pleasure of working with Addy on the fall musical the last four years, and I have witnessed first hand her dedication to excellence and her boundless positivity. Congratulations on receiving this honor; it is most certainly deserved. I have full confidence that Addy will accomplish whatever it is that she puts her mind to. Best of luck as you move on to your future endeavors. Make sure you keep in touch so that we can share in all of your great accomplishments.” ~ Mr. Jason Smith, High School English Teacher
“With a strong sense of determination and motivation, Addison always puts her best into everything she does. Addison leads by example, always showing a strong work ethic and a positive attitude that others seem to follow after. She is focused and goal-oriented, yet so very kind and trustworthy that everyone feels comfortable coming to her with anything. She is dedicated to her personal growth and to supporting her peers, making Addison an asset to this school community! Congratulations, Addison – you deserve this honor!” ~ Mrs. Valerie Martin, Middle/High School Business Teacher
“‘Work hard in silence – let success make the noise.’ I saw this on a poster and feel that this is the perfect motto for Miss Addison Christopher! As an English student, Addison’s desire to truly understand a concept has always impressed me; she is not satisfied with good enough. This drive is also evident through her performances in cross country and track. Addison is genuinely one of the most sincere and sweet students. Her drive, coupled with her smile, will surely take her place. I am incredibly excited to see where the future takes you, Sweet Girl!” ~ Mrs. Kristin Staver, High School English Teacher
“Congratulations to Addison Christopher on becoming December’s Student of the Month! Addison, you are so deserving of all good things! When I see you out running, I think of the little lady you once were and how you have continued your poise into adulthood. Stay kind; use your artistic talents in wonderful ways and most of all, keep smiling! The world needs more people like you! Best wishes for your future! I’m sure it will be bright!” ~ Mrs. Jill McGuire, Kindergarten Teacher
“I have had the pleasure of witnessing Addison Christopher’s dedication and growth in both the HS Choir and the Musical Theatre Club. Addison’s musicality and professionalism have always shone in High School Choir. She represented the Vocal Music Department well when she participated in SWAL Honor Choirs for four years, and this year, she has been accepted into UW-Milwaukee’s Vocal Arts Festival. Addison’s efforts displayed while onstage in ‘Chicago,’ and her flexibility and leadership while working the sound board for ‘The Drowsy Chaperone,’ ‘Into the Woods,’ and ‘Big Fish’ were truly incredible. Her sweet personality, quiet leadership, creativity, perceptiveness, and consideration of others have always served as models for her peers. Addison’s multifaceted talents, self-motivation, positivity, and team-mentality will be deeply missed throughout the music department, and will surely take her far in future endeavors!” ~ Mrs. Ashley Calderon-McHugh, Middle/High School Choir Teacher
“Congratulations, Addison, on being selected as a December Student of the Month! Addison is graceful and intelligent, consistently excelling without seeking the spotlight. Her humility speaks volumes about her character. With goals of pursuing a degree in Psychology, she embodies the qualities of a future psychologist — attentive, empathetic, curious, and responsible. This year I have learned what a thoughtful and talented writer she is and have enjoyed learning more about her in this way. Addison, thank you for sharing your talents and insights with us. We will certainly miss you and especially your warmth, positivity, and kindness in the coming years, but wish only the best. Congratulations!” ~ Mrs. Erika Brunson, Middle/High School Counselor
Isabelle Coogan
Isabelle Coogan is the eldest child of Jamie and Elizabeth Coogan and grew up in Mineral Point. She attended Mineral Point Elementary and Mineral Point Middle/High School, where she excelled academically and developed a wide range of interests. Isabelle has one brother – Finn. Her family’s support and encouragement have been integral to her growth and success.
Isabelle plans to attend Southwest Wisconsin Technical College to pursue a career as a Radiology Technician. Her goal is to build a strong foundation in the medical imaging field before furthering her education to become a Nuclear Medicine Technologist. This specialized role aligns with her passion for combining science and patient care.
Her interest in healthcare was solidified through her experiences at her two jobs as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) where she developed essential skills and an appreciation for the importance of empathy, precision, and patient advocacy. This experience has inspired her to explore healthcare career options and helped her to settle in the medical imaging field.
Throughout her life, Isabelle has been involved in sports and has had a passion for horses. She has participated in team sports that have highlighted her leadership skills and ability to work collaboratively toward shared goals. Isabelle’s love for horses has also been a significant part of her life, teaching her responsibility, patience, and dedication. These experiences have helped her build meaningful connections with others and develop a strong sense of discipline and teamwork.
Isabelle would like to express her heartfelt gratitude to her family. But especially, to her mom and dad for their unwavering support, encouragement, and love throughout her life. She is also deeply thankful to her Aunt Tammy for being a constant source of inspiration and guidance. Isabelle’s Grandma Patty and Grandpa Bobby have played a significant role in shaping her values and ambitions, and she is profoundly grateful for their wisdom, kindness, and encouragement. Their collective influence has been instrumental in helping her pursue her dreams and achieve her goals.
She would like to say thank you to her friends and teachers at school for their support and encouragement. She would also like to thank the Kiwanis for this opportunity and congratulate her fellow student of the month, Addison Christopher.
“If you want to find a person that just knows how to get things done and done with quality, look no further than Isabelle Coogan. It has been my extreme pleasure to have Isabelle as a student in several English classes. She is a student that is dedicated to excellence; in addition, she is caring, considerate, responsible, and has a very clear vision for her future. Isabelle is highly respected by students and staff alike. I can tell you that with her work ethic, she will accomplish whatever it is she sets her sights on. Congratulations on receiving this well deserved honor Isabelle, and I want to wish you the best of luck as you move on to the next stage of your life. Make sure you keep in touch so that we can share in all of your great accomplishments.” ~ Mr. Jason Smith, High School English Teacher
“Isabelle Coogan has always been a sweet, kind girl. When I think of Isabelle, I think of horses. They have always been her one love from Kindergarten on through the years. Her sweet, calm demeanor fits perfectly with her horses and I’m sure she keeps them in a gentle state whenever she’s around. Isabelle, I wish you a wonderful Senior year and hope that your choices for what’s yet to come fit you well. Congratulations on becoming Student of the Month and best wishes for a bright future!” ~ Mrs. Jill McGuire, Kindergarten Teacher
“Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, ‘To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.’ I have adored Miss Isabelle Coogan’s spitfire, take no guff attitude from the get-go. Even as a Freshman, Isabelle clearly understood who she was and what she stood for. She stood her ground with grace and kindness to everyone. I am confident that your motivation and drive to succeed will continue after high school. I can’t wait to see you thrive in your future!” ~ Mrs. Kristin Staver, High School English Teacher
“Isabelle Coogan is one of the hardest working students I know. She embodies what it means to be dedicated and driven and has proven her commitment to healthcare by earning her CNA early in high school and gaining real-world experience by working as a CNA and a Medical Assistant. Balancing a full workload with dual enrollment courses is no easy feat, yet she manages to excel academically and is always willing to help others. With aspirations of a career in radiography, I am convinced she will be successful. She has already shown such devotion and determination to achieve her goals, and she has an incredible future ahead.” ~ Mrs. Erika Brunson, Middle/High School Counselor
(Christopher photo by Lifka Bennett; Coogan photo by Julia Bystol)