Shining Student Spotlight: Marlee S

This week, we’re excited to introduce Marlee S., a kind, helpful, and dedicated sixth-grader at Kenton Ridge Middle School. Marlee exemplifies what it means to be a true ROARing Cougar and make a positive impact in our community. She has taken on various roles, such as helping kindergarten students, cleaning up trash, and much more. Her dedication to being a good student and classmate makes her a valuable asset to her school and community.

Marlee believes in the importance of being a good friend and ensuring others feel included. Her commitment to cultivating inclusivity has led to some of her proudest accomplishments, including receiving the Cougar Roar Award and being selected for the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Committee. Despite facing challenges such as the addition of a third test in MAP testing, Marlee has demonstrated resilience and growth in her academic pursuits. 

Marlee’s dedication to improving her school and community is evident in her actions. Whether she’s assisting in the kindergarten classrooms or supporting the custodial staff by picking up trash and sweeping to make their jobs a little easier, Marlee’s genuine desire to make a positive impact shines through. Seeing the joy her efforts bring to others inspires her to continue making a difference.

As a sixth grader, Marlee advises fifth-graders to stay organized and turn in their assignments on time to make the most of their learning experience. She says, “If you have missing work, you won’t be able to go on the field trip, so it’s important to stay on top of things.” Marlee’s passion for learning extends to her love for science, where she enjoys doing experiments and learning new concepts through hands-on experiments. One teacher who consistently makes learning enjoyable for Marlee is Mrs. Cantrell, whose creative approach to classwork keeps students engaged and eager to learn.

Beyond the classroom, Marlee actively participates in gymnastics, dance, and Girl Scouts. She enjoys spending time with friends, having sleepovers, and playing volleyball, hide-and-seek, and tag. Marlee also loves getting creative and doing arts and crafts, especially diamond art. She also cherishes quality time with her grandparents and enjoys indulging in sweet treats like ice cream together. Additionally, she has a soft spot for French Bulldogs.

Marlee’s career aspirations are diverse, reflecting her wide range of interests and talents. She envisions herself becoming a baker, hairstylist, or even a teacher. Her love for styling hair is evident in her experimenting with different kinds of braids, while her love for baking stems from her childhood experiences. Additionally, her desire to teach is fueled by her enjoyment of helping other kids learn and grow.

Marlee’s well-rounded nature and compassionate spirit enable her to make a positive impact both inside and outside of the classroom.  Whether she’s helping younger students, giving back to her school, or pursuing her interests in gymnastics, dance, and crafts, she shows kindness. No matter which path she chooses, whether it be in a salon, bakery, or classroom, Marlee will undoubtedly continue to make a difference in the lives of others for years to come.

Author: Communications Intern Shannon Coleman (KRHS ‘25)