It is 7:20 a.m., and an alarm vibrates throughout the room, signaling the start of a day of creativity and empowerment. Ellie Kuehnert (12), Associated Student Body Class President, kicks off her morning with a brief Bible study devotional, followed by picking up a friend on the way to school while listening to the worship radio station K-LOVE and singing along.
Last year, Kuehnert ran for ASB Class President because of her drive to help others, and the fulfillment she found in her previous work as the philanthropy commissioner.
“I’ve been super happy to watch the growth of the class and what it has become,” Kuehnert said. “I love working with different groups of people, and I am so happy for all that I have set up.”
Throughout the day, Kuehnert stays focused in her classes, listening to lectures and taking notes. As soon as fifth period begins, Kuehnert rushes to her ASB class where she leads the class meeting. She discusses deadlines with classmates, plans bonding activities and participates in them. Later, the class breaks off into committees to work on their tasks.
As the lunch bell rings, Kuehnert makes her way to Math 1 Honors and Math 3 Honors teacher Robert Preske’s room for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes club meeting, held every Tuesday, where she plays the role of an officer. The day prior to each meeting, the club plans “small group questions, fun games and plans for someone to give a religious message.”
“I really love being a part of FCA,” Kuehnert said. “We really want everyone to come out, it is a great environment, We have fun games and pizza.”
Kuehnert’s lunch is either filled with club meetings or assisting ASB advisor and English 9 teacher Jennifer Ryan with ASB tasks.
When the seventh period bell rings, Kuehnert heads home, ready to study or spend time with her family.
“I try my best to get all of my homework done when I get home,” Kuehnert said. “I see friends too and try to relax after school.”
Around 4 p.m., Kuehnert heads to varsity track and field practice, where she trains rigorously to improve her skills and achieve team and personal goals throughout the season. In addition to track and field, this is Kuehnert’s fourth year playing midfield for the varsity field hockey team.
After diligent training, Kuehnert heads to her youth group at her church called One Youth.
“I play for the worship band with guitar, and I also sing, and we have a band practice with lively music as well as Bible study later on,” Kuehnert said. “I love it so much. It is such a happy place where I can grow spiritually, mentally and emotionally.”
Returning home from Bible study, Kuehnert is greeted by her mini Australian Shepard, Reesie, and her family with dinner ready at the table.
Upon finishing homework and any remaining tasks, Kuehnert unwinds and looks forward to what the next day holds.
“I’m a total night owl and love staying up,” Kuehnert said. “I stay up finishing homework or any other work/emails and maybe FaceTiming my brother … then I wind down by getting ready for bed with some music, then I have some short quiet time just for journaling reflections on the day or reading the Bible.”
Kuehnert plans to double major in health and human sciences and Christian ministry next year, following her passions.
“I love to do nonprofit work, and ASB has helped me realize what I am so passionate about … getting involved in my community,” Kuehnert said.
