Downsview, for the week of May 8th, it is a pleasure to introduce you to two students of the week, both of the twelfth grade. They are Brandon M. and Christian-Jayden W.

Our recipients have each received this honour in their own right. We are, at this point in the school year, running out of weeks, and want to make sure that worthy nominees are not missed. Hence, two recipients this week.

Let’s get right to the praise for our recipients. First, hear this from Mr Syal: “I had the pleasure of teaching Brandon and Christian for the past 4 years. It was like yesterday they walked into my grade 9 class and today they are in grade 12. Brandon and Christian are part of the robotics team. Both have grown into responsible young men. 

Brandon played the role of coach and captain. His role was to delegate responsibilities to the other members. He trained grade 9 students on how to use tools properly. He built a back bot all by himself. Brandon has excelled academically in Chemistry and Physics. Christian played the role of technician. He placed the bot in the arena and ensured all the robot parts were working properly. In addition, his roles involve negotiating with other teams. Despite all the challenges Christian has faced in life, he always had a smile. He always cooperates with his teachers and understands the challenges of life. I wish Brandon and Christian the best of luck with their future endeavours. Bravo!”

And, from Mr Hum: “If you get to know Brandon, he's actually a really funny guy. He's got a great sense of humour and is very easy to get along with. I'm sure his robotics team will attest to that. As Brandon heads to post secondary, he goes with a focus of one day becoming an entrepreneur. Brandon is very ambitious and is determined to reach his goals. Brandon, I wish you all the best with your future endeavours and hope you will come back to visit with some funny stories as well. Congrats!”

Ms Gheorghiade adds this: “Christian-Jayden, though I have known you for a short period, I am proud of you for pursuing your interest in computer science and the exciting field of technology, which is undergoing rapid change. Even though you want to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering, you are learning highly sought-after skills. Your commitment to studying programming languages, algorithms, data structures, and other technical abilities will pay off. Christian, you proved to yourself and all of us that the difficulties will make one stronger and more resilient. Never stop challenging yourself, remain inquisitive, and never give up on your dreams!”

From Mr Wallace: “One of Brandon's gifts is his openness. This has many benefits. One is that a room with Brandon in it is a welcoming room for all. His big smile and approachable manner make everyone feel comfortable. He might not see it this way, but this is not just a social act of kindness; it is a political act of generosity. He knows what it is like to be excluded and he isn't letting others have that experience if he has anything to do with it. Brandon makes places safe. Another aspect of openness is his ability to experience the full emotional range of life's events. The long road of commitment that Brandon has travelled with the Full Metal Mustangs, the Robotics team, has provided plenty of opportunity for learning how to be.  The strength to endure heartbreak and to fully embrace success is not easily gained. Many of us hold back out of fear. Not Brandon. He has made some big decisions about how he wants to be in the world and we could all learn a lot from him.  Team 5031 forever.

Christian-Jayden is that sleeper asset that any good team needs. When a spark of insight is needed, Christian-Jayden will offer it up. But you've got to listen for it, because he isn't someone who shouts from the rooftops. His humility comes from a place of wisdom, hard won. Life has not always been smooth, but the hard knocks have taught him the value of a smile, a supportive gesture and a timely bit of insight. Team 5031 forever and ever!”

Mr Henriques says: “Brandon always comes to class in a positive mood and allows his personality to really shine. A rising star with a bright future.” Ms de Jersey adds: “Christian is an inquisitive guy, curious and interested in learning. This will continue to serve him well.”

And, from Mr Lewin: “Brandon's deep and profound interest in Robotics is truly inspiring. He was a pivotal member of Downsview award-winning Robotics Team.  Brandon's caring  and thoughtful nature is truly infectious.  Moreover, Brandon is an honour roll student who understands the power of education to transform lives. In short, , Brandon has made an invaluable contribution to the Downsview family over the years.  We wish you all the best in  your future endeavours, Brandon. 

Christian-Jayden is passionate about Science and Robotics.  He was an invaluable member of Downsview 's award-winning Robotics team. Christian is a thoughtful and compassionate student scholar committed to using his talents and abilities to enrich the lives of others. Christian was a peer tutor in Semester 1. He generously gave of his time to assist  student scholars who required academic support. Christian's post-secondary goal is to secure a career in a STEM-related field. The Downsview family is confident that Christian  can achieve anything that he puts his mind to.”

Brandon, Christian, you heard it here. Your contributions to our school have made us better. You have each earned the title: Student of the Week.