ALTON - During their regular meeting on March 18, 2026, the Alton Community Unit School District #11 Board of Education recognized the March Optimist Students of the Month.
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Amelia Patino was recognized as the Optimist Student for Alton Middle School, while Reagan Owen was named the Optimist Student for Lewis and Clark Elementary School.
Alton Middle School Principal Dr. Brian Saenz introduced Patino as “an exceptional and hard-working student who consistently comes to class prepared, focused and eager to learn.” He noted that Patino is a member of the National Junior Honor Society.
“She is kind and generous and inclusive. Amelia is a friend to everyone,” Saenz said. “Her calm demeanor, positive attitude, and sense of humor make her a joy in class. Beyond academics, Amelia shows genuine care and respect for others through meaningful acts of kindness and strong communication with both peers and adults. She’s creative and considerate and quietly strong.”
Patino enjoys pickleball and wants to explore swimming as a sport. Optimist Students of the Month receive $25 and can choose where to donate an additional $25. Patino chose to donate her $25 to Crisis Food Center.
Latasha LeFlore-Porter, principal of Lewis and Clark Elementary School, explained that Owen is “the first one over to help” when her classmates need assistance. She often partners with students because she “never wants anyone to feel left out,” and she is “always cheery and always positive.”
“Her teacher says she is one of the most amazing students she’s ever had,” LeFlore-Porter added. “She said Reagan is such an amazing student, and her teacher feels beyond blessed to have her in her classroom every day.”
Owen enjoys math and reading. She loves learning about penguins. She chose to donate her $25 to the Alton Boys and Girls Club.
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