May 28, 2026, by Regan Seibert (SHS Today Journalist)

“Friends and classmates know Lia as someone who is hardworking, genuine, hilarious, and always kind to the people around her.”

Photo by Lia Shank

Lia Shank has been selected as the May Student of the Month for her hard work and leadership, and the positive energy she brings to the school every day. Although Lia said she was “surprised because there’re so many people that deserve it,” anyone who knows her can see why she was the obvious choice. Between her involvement in activities, dedication in the classroom, and the way she treats others, Lia is a light that carries through the hallways, making school a better place to be for the people around her. 

Lia is involved in student council as an activities director, NHS, yearbook, volleyball and basketball as a three-year varsity player, as well as working to restore Seward High’s soccer team for the first time in seven years, taking on the role of team captain. Sports have always been a huge part of her life, and she acknowledges that they helped shape her in more ways than she probably even realizes. Along with athletics, student council has helped her become more connected to the school and more involved with other students. No matter what she’s doing, Lia brings a magnetic energy and natural charisma that makes people smile. Whether it’s at games, school events, or just in the hallway, she has a way of making people laugh and feel included. 

“When asked what advice she would give to other students, Lia encouraged everyone to get involved in something bigger. Whether it’s sports, debate, drama, or student council, she believes activities help students grow, meet people, and enjoy school more.”

In the classroom, Lia enjoys language arts because she likes reading books, discussing them, and seeing how they connect to life today. When it comes to academics, she says she is motivated by wanting to get good grades and “see how well [she] can do.” She also believes staying on top of schoolwork is important and shared that if you “do your work when you’re meant to,” it’s easier to stay less stressed and more organized. Her strong work ethic, combined with her outgoing personality, makes her stand out both as a student and as a friend. 

Lia also shared that teachers have played a big role in helping her succeed, especially Ms. Swander, who she says has always pushed her to do her best and helped her with so much, including balancing yearbook and student activities. 

When asked what advice she would give to other students, Lia encouraged everyone to get involved in something; be involved in something bigger. Whether it’s sports, debate, drama, or student council, she believes activities help students grow, meet people, and enjoy school more. Friends and classmates know Lia as someone who is hardworking, genuine, hilarious, and always kind to the people around her, which makes her a perfect choice for Student of the Month. 

Congratulations to Lia Shank, May’s Student of the Month!