Addison Trail names December recipient of 88's Best recognition

Jennyfer Puebla has been named as Addison Trail’s December recipient of 88’s Best recognition for her highly improved performance. Puebla, a senior, was recognized during the Dec. 15, 2014, District 88 Board of Education meeting.

When Puebla entered Addison Trail, she had strained relationships with friends, family members and authority figures in her life, she struggled in school and she had difficulty keeping a positive attitude. But she has turned all of that around. Puebla said she is now able to focus in class, she connects with her teachers and her grades have drastically improved.

“Puebla is a wonderful young woman, who has worked incredibly hard in the years I have known her,” said Sabrina Macek, Addison Trail English teacher. “She is a student who is mature beyond her years, and her honesty and work ethic leave an impression on everyone she meets.”

This year, Puebla is focused on her coursework and improving her grades. She also has developed extremely positive relationships with many Addison Trail staff members and her family. Puebla said she knows she could not have achieved the level of success she has experienced without a number of people in her corner. She said several Addison Trail staff members have helped her realize her mistakes and her potential, and they have guided her to realize she can do anything she wants in life. When Puebla talks about the adults at Addison Trail who have helped her, she constantly refers to them as her family.

“They helped and did their job,” Puebla said. “They were teachers and guiders – it’s not only about teaching in a class, but creating a bond with your students. I give an A+ to all of them!”

Addison Trail social studies teacher Mark Olson said it has been a pleasure to teach Puebla.

“It has been such a joy to see the growth both in and out of the classroom with Puebla,” Olson said. “She became a beacon within the classroom, challenged norms, debated issues at a high level of thoughtfulness and grew into a mature young lady.”

Addison Trail Dean Keith Marston agreed.

“Puebla is a great representative of what Addison Trail has to offer,” Marston said. “Since she has committed to improving her future, her improved effort every day in class has her standing here today. The new Puebla has responded to higher expectations in and out of the classroom, has her sights set on college and is taking the steps necessary to have a professional career in the medical field.”

Puebla said she vows to keep looking forward and to accomplish everything she wants to do.

“I have my story map built of what I want in my life,” she said. “I hope to get where I want to be – to helping people and to be kind. That’s what I’ve learned – kindness goes a long way.”

Puebla plans to attend Western Illinois University and to pursue a career as an ultrasound technician.