The Lakers are proud to announce December’s Student of the Month winners: Kelsey Klunder, David Lopez and Emily Werman and Teacher of the Month winners: Brenda Lopez, Kathy Wallace, and Elizabeth Williams. This month’s winners demonstrate an outstanding commitment to academia, athletics, and community outreach.

Kelsey Klunder, a 12th grader at La Mirada High School.  Kelsey is a scholar athlete, dedicated to community service. She is enrolled in Honors level classes and also a member of the 3A State Champion girls soccer team. Outside of school, Kelsey is involved in outreach programs and has logged over 150 hours of community service during high school.
 
David Lopez, a 4th grader at Saticoy Elementary. David is a top student in his class, where he has earned a perfect score on the math section of his California Achievement Test for 2 years in a row. David is also a member of the Saticoy Student Council and a youth leader who gives up his recess time to assist younger students.
 
Emily Werman, an 9th grader at Village Glenn.  In the classroom, Emily is a dedicated student and a member of her school’s Student Council. Outside the classroom, Emily volunteers at The Friendship Circle, where she helps students with special needs. She is also an exceptional tennis player and chess player.

Brenda Lopez, a teacher at Magnolia Science Academy.  Ms. Lopez is a dedicated teacher who stays after school to mentor and tutor students on a daily basis. She is also the founder of LA Life, a club that exposes students to the different neighborhoods and experiences of Los Angeles.

Kathy Wallace, a 3rd grade teacher at Ramona Elementary School.  Ms. Wallace runs a fun and energetic classroom that engages her students, every day. She also serves as a member of the Ramona Site Council and was Ramona’s “APPLE” liaison during last school year. Outside of school, Ms. Wallace is actively involved with her church.
 
Elizabeth Williams, a 2nd grade teacher at Leo Politi Elementary School. Mrs. Williams is a gifted teacher who provides well-planned and inspired instruction to her students. Her hard work has paid dividends for her classroom of economically-disadvantaged students. Over 90% of her students score “proficient” or “advanced” in language arts and math on state achievement tests.
The Students and Teachers of the Month were invited to the home game on December 14th against the Minnesota Timberwolves. They were honored during a halftime presentation where they received a plaque and a $50 gift certificate to Staples. The nominations for the December Student and Teacher of the Month were submitted by principals and teachers of each school based on exemplary efforts, achievements, and extracurricular activities.