Academic Standout: Aleksa L.

The KMS teaching faculty is proud to announce Aleksa Lalic as our first Academic Standout of the year! Aleksa is a Full-Term Senior Alpine Athlete who comes to KMS from Serbia. Aleksa’s nomination was enthusiastically supported by many of his teachers who recognize his authentic drive and dedication in the area of academic excellence. From consistent communication with teachers during travel to thoughtful analytical written responses, Aleksa continually proves himself to be an asset in the classroom.

Putting forth the first nomination, as well as presenting for Aleksa at this week’s All-School meeting, is Social Studies Department Co-Chair, Middle School and Winter-Term Coordinator, Registrar, and Humanities teacher Ian Groezinger. Ian states, “Aleksa has made an outstanding start to the academic year. Transitioning to a new school in a foreign country is no easy feat, but he arrived this year eager and prepared to learn. Before departing for Saas Fee, he took the initiative to meet with me to discuss assignments and expectations during his travels. So far, every assignment he has submitted has been exceptional. Aleksa is an excellent communicator and a positive influence on both his class and the school as a whole.” 

Seconding this nomination is Director of Development, and Business and Management teacher Robin Debiase. Robin comments, “Alexa is diligent, hard-working, and prompt on all his assignments even while traveling.  His concept of the Moguls project in the business class is a concise business plan with all the key components.  Alexa is a pleasure to have in class and asks very important business questions.  He is a stellar student.”  

Offering her own nomination, Head of School and College Advisor Claire Butler reflects, “Aleksa was extremely communicative and diligent in working on his college applications while in Saas Fee, including at least 4 revisions of his college essay during the trip. It is clear that he is eager to learn and always wants to make improvements. I was also impressed by his organization and the way he is using his resources to navigate the college process.” 

English Department Chair Mara Taylor put forth her own nomination for Aleksa’s work in their English class. Mara writes, “Aleksa is not afraid of hard work. For example, for English class, Aleksa initially had three ideas for his college essay. In order to make a decision about it, he wrote three versions, completing a full draft for each idea. Aleksa is, moreover, a flexible and independent learner. Again, in the context of working on his college essay, Aleksa showed flexibility in his willingness to integrate feedback from a variety of readers, and he showed intellectual independence when, in the end, he came to his own decision about what was best for the essay. Such flexibility and independence are what is required of learners at the postsecondary level of education. I'm confident already that Aleksa will thrive as a student at this high level.”

Adding to this list is Math and Science teacher Brigette Muller. Brigette comments, “Despite traveling for most of the school year so far, Aleksa has been very on top of his work. He always communicated his needs with me. When he needed more time for assignments, he was honest and straightforward. He asks for extra problems when he needs extra practice on specific sections. Aleksa went above and beyond to be ready to take our first Calculus Test as soon as possible once he returned. Learning Calculus while traveling is not an easy feat, and Aleksa handled it amazingly well. I think he would be a great candidate for the Academic Standout Student.” 

Adding her own nomination for Aleksa’s work in Early American History is Social Studies Department Co-Chair and Advisory Coordinator Courtney O’Keefe. Courtney states, “It is a pleasure having Aleksa as a student in my Early American History class this year. It has been obvious since our first class together that Aleksa is a highly motivated student, who is determined to get the most out of his study of US History. He is incredibly focused during class, offering insights and ideas during class discussions as well as during partner and whole-class group work. His written work is highly analytical, thoughtful, and polished, not only proving he understands the content we are covering but also demonstrating his determination to take his academic skills to the next level. Although a new student to our program, it is as if he has been here for years. He meets as well as exceeds expectations related to such key KMS requirements as timely and proactive communication and work submission while traveling. I continue to be beyond impressed by this young man, and I look forward to what the rest of the year will bring with him in my classroom! Congratulations, Aleksa! You have definitely set the bar high, young man. Continue leading by example and showcasing academic excellence in action.

And finally, rounding out this amazing list of nominations is Golf Program Director and Studio Art/Graphic Design/Photography teacher Eric Kuntz. Eric reflects, “Aleksa has been crushing it in graphic design, turning work in early, and even getting ahead with assignments all while on the road training. Aleksa is showcasing what all KMS athletes should be doing while traveling. Excellent work!” 

Please join us in congratulating Aleksa on this well-deserved recognition! Congratulations, Aleksa. We are incredibly proud of you and look forward to what the year holds for you within our classrooms! Be proud, young man.