This year, senior Kristina Herl was awarded Kansas Next Step’s Goal by Principal Martin Straub. With some hard work and dedication, she was pleased yet surprised.

“Next Step’s Goal is to help connect students with their success and recognize they work they do,” Herl said.

Winning the award not only gave Herl satisfaction, but some prizes as well.

“I was given $100, which I am putting into my projects funds so I can send out more care packages,” Herl said. “I also received a certificate.”

Herl said winning this award was a shock to her completely.

“I was taken by complete surprise when found out I won,” Herl said. “I wasn’t even aware that Mr. Straub had nominated me, which made it even more special.”

Herl said it’s an honor to be chosen and you can enter to win on kansasnextstep.org.

“It’s always a great feeling,” Herl said.

16hbaxter@usd489.com