Lincoln High School student is Register's Student of the Week. New poll now open

It's time to vote on the next Des Moines Register's Student of the Week.

But before we introduce you to this week's academic hopefuls, let's congratulate Lincoln High School's Savanna Dulay, who received more than 98% of the 767 votes cast.

"Savanna Dulay truly stands out among her peers due to her impressive dedication and leadership across multiple areas," teacher Lily Friedrichsen wrote in the nomination. "Savanna has been the yearbook editor-in-chief for two years, is an active member of NHS, plays volleyball, serves as vice president of the Potluck Club, is part of the Rails Crew, and volunteers as a teacher’s aide and tutor. On top of her extracurricular involvement, she maintains an outstanding 4.1 GPA, showing her commitment to academics as well."

Also, nominated were Southeast Warren Jr/Sr High School students Austin Ledlie and Kiara Wallace. Staff from 30 schools in Polk, Dallas and Warren counties are asked each week to nominate a standout student.

The public can vote once a day for Student of the Week through noon on Friday, Nov. 22. The winner will be announced Nov. 25. There will be no poll next week because of Thanksgiving.

Here are this week's nominees:

Amaria 'Tia' Daye, Lincoln High School

Amaria 'Tia' Daye is a senior at Lincoln High School who distinguishes herself as a committed, hardworking and well-rounded student.

Amaria is a vital member of our school's dance team and cheerleading squad. Her dedication to both activities is evident in the time and effort she puts into her performances and practices.  She was this year's Homecoming Queen and shows a generous spirit with all her peers.

In addition to her athletic commitments, she has taken advantage of advanced educational opportunities, enrolling in college-level courses at Central Campus in broadcasting and criminal justice. 

She participates in Iowa Jobs for America's Graduates or iJAG, a program designed to help students build leadership skills and prepare for their futures. Through this program, Amaria shows a clear commitment to her personal and professional development.

Amaria proves herself everyday to be a determined and capable young woman who will undoubtedly make valuable contributions to any organization in the future.— Jacqueline Patrick, Lincoln High School counselor

Yesenia Granados-Martinez, East High School

While continuing to be a strong student throughout high school, senior Yesenia Granados-Martinez also challenged herself to take honors/AP courses, dual enrollment, etc. to prepare for college-level academics. She maintained a job and consistent work hours, along with student organizations. She volunteers often, is involved in National Honor Society, and has been such an asset to our Scarlet Squad organization as she has helped to welcome many new students to East high school and has been able to translate for our counseling office many times to welcome new students enrolling in Des Moines Public Schools. She plans to attend a four-year college after high school and has goals to attend medical school in the future!

— Kristen Borel, East High School counselor

Torin Timmerman, Adel Desoto Minburn High School

Torin Timmerman is a senior at Adel Desoto Minburn High School. He stands out amongst his peers due to his astounding dedication, hard work, and leadership qualities. He serves as the team captain for both the cross country and track teams and attended the Iowa Rotary Youth Leadership Award conference. He is a two-year member of National Honor Society and is involved in the FCA. He has qualified for state track or cross country every season in high school, and is a 3-time 1st-team all-conference runner in cross country. On top of his extracurricular involvement, Torin also demonstrates his commitment to academics by maintaining an outstanding 4.0 GPA and is on track to graduate with honors in the area of engineering.

— Adel Desoto Minburn counseling department

About Student of the Week

This is a weekly contest. Polls open on Mondays and close at noon on Thursdays. Students from public and private high schools in the Des Moines area are eligible to participate.

Do you want your student to be considered for Student of the Week? Ask your principal to contact [email protected].

Samantha Hernandez covers education for the Register. Reach her at (515) 851-0982 or [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter at @svhernandez or Facebook at facebook.com/svhernandezreporter.