An introduction from the emcee filled the auditorium, “Please help me welcome Niwot High School student Sienna Arellano…” As I walked up onto the stage, I kept my eyes focused on the podium. Legs shaking, vision blurring, I set down my speech. Looking up for the first time, my eyes met a room full of 500 educators, administrators, and staff who have supported and empowered me and countless others to succeed. My nerves began to settle as I glanced at all who have paved me a path of success in which I am now ready to take flight.
In the spring of my junior year, I was asked to present a speech to the St. Vrain Valley School Education Foundation’s Tribute to Teachers event about how the school district has made an incredible impact on who I am – and who I will become.
Beginning my speech, my eyes wandered the ballroom and landed on the table belonging to Niwot High School. Having my principal and Niwot High School staff in the room calmed my nerves and reassured me, as the kind and caring community fostered at Niwot High had followed me to this big moment. Throughout my four years, I have been given extensive opportunities that have bettered my education. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) school, Niwot has provided a multitude of challenging coursework, which pushed me, and also encouraged me to become more globally aware and step outside of my academic comfort zone.
Starting high school I struggled with being vulnerable while learning and resisted asking questions, as I was fearful of being judged. At Niwot High there is an overwhelming community of support where every student is able to excel in whichever path they choose. I became comfortable taking risks that bettered my learning. I love being a part of a community of driven and passionate people who actively strive to better themselves, their peers, and the local community. Niwot High School creates an engaging, safe, and gracious learning environment, always challenging their students to try new things.
Back in the ballroom, I continued my speech and glanced at the Innovation Center table. Not only has this group of teachers helped me become a young professional, but they have built my confidence and inspired me to believe in myself. In eighth grade, I took my first computer science class and started to become involved in STEM-related activities such as Cyber Patriots and VEX Robotics. My middle school teachers encouraged me to start getting involved at the Innovation Center. The first time I stepped into the building, I was struck with a new feeling – a feeling of limitless possibilities. I’m not sure if it is the modern architecture, the amazing aquatic robotics fish tank, or the incredible community, but I always feel inspired to explore new ideas. As a shy freshman, I was intimidated by the advanced projects and leading upperclassmen. I wondered if I could also lead the charge and design something new.
The teachers at the Innovation Center encouraged me to get involved in all fields of STEM and have taught me incredible skills such as networking, presenting, and leadership that I will take with me beyond my time in St Vrain. They have built my confidence so that shy ninth grader has grown into a leader. As a graduating senior, I have been a part of five student-led project teams that aid my community. As a member of the Future-Ready Mobile Innovation Lab, I have traveled to nearly 20 elementary schools to teach computer science and spark curiosity to motivate future engineers. As the leader of the Cybersecurity Technology Team, I have founded a series of cybersecurity classes taught to over 150 local senior citizens. The impact the Innovation Center makes in the community is unmatched, and I have been honored to help that mission. Two days after my second session teaching senior citizens cybersecurity tips and tricks, I received an email from an attendee explaining her joy as she successfully maneuvered around a phishing email and was saved from a scam. That email filled me with emotion, showing me that the work I do at the Innovation Center really impacts lives.
In the ballroom once more, my gaze shifted away from the Innovation Center table, roaming across the entire room. As I reflect on the community, I am filled with a sense of belonging that comes from shared connections and support. Community is a large staple of the school district and St. Vrain has given me the chance to gain hands-on experience and work with local community leaders.
In my sophomore year, I became the Longmont Area Chamber of Commerce student intern and got a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes work of our local community. Collaborating with businesses and charities, I provided a student perspective and bridged the gap between education and industry. From wearing a professional suit for the first time, to being an active member in a 50-person board meeting, I engaged in a world beyond my classrooms.
Nearing the end of my speech, my eyes scanned the room for the final time and I was met with the eyes of those who have encouraged, challenged, inspired, and most of all cared for me. Their eyes were filled with pride and hope for my future. With closing remarks, I announced, “Thank you St. Vrain Valley Schools, and most of all, thank you for being the catalyst and inspiration for the future.”
