Dakota Payne wins $500 Rotary Scholarship

Rotary Scholarship Winner: Dakota Payne
Dakota Payne, who won the Rotary Scholar of the Month in April,  was selected as the the Camas Washougal Rotary $500 scholarship winner for 2013-2014.  Dakota is a sophomore at Washougal High School and has a GPA of 3.62.  Barbara Samojedny, WHS Family and Consumer Science teacher, says that "I had Dakota in Food and You.  He was amazing!  He is one of those kids who always does the 'Right Thing.' He would stick up for kids and put other in their place if they needed it!  He was always pleasant and professional in his classroom behavior.  He is a great role model."  Rachel Webb, WHS Health and Fitness teacher, adds that "Dakota is a kind and polite young man to his peers and staff, and is always willing to do whatever it takes to go the extra mile.  I am so proud of him."

WHS Spanish teacher Rochelle Aiton describes Dakota as "a cheerful and dedicated presence in class.  He is cooperative and consistent."  Athletic Trainer Lisa Bennett notes that "I can always count on Dakota to be extremely polite, respectful, humble, and pleasant whenever I work with him or speak with him."  Mary LaFrance, ASB Secretary, adds that "I have found Dakota Payne to be one of the most polite and respectful young men at WHS.  He is so considerate and his manners are quite refreshing.  Dakota always has a smile on his face and seems willing to go the extra mile to help anyone.  My hope is that other students are watching him and following his example."

WHS Spanish teacher Brian Eggleston said "Dakota Payne is one of those small handful of students who are so attentive, respectful, and diligent in all that comes his way that a teacher counts his blessings to have him in a class.  The phrase “eager to learn” describes Dakota perfectly in his intermediate Spanish class.  He enjoys learning new concepts and practicing them in speaking, reading, writing, and listening.  He also works well with any partner I select for him, and brings a consistently positive attitude that I know others appreciate too.  It can be rare to see a teenager so consistently positive in his attitude each and every day.  But Dakota seems to know that all of these learning experiences are really rehearsals for later life challenges, and so we at WHS see him each day in class and in athletics building strong character, integrity, effort, and self-discipline.  It is truly rewarding for a teacher to see such a fine young man enjoying life's challenges.  As he continues his studies I have full confidence that Dakota can reach fluency in another language, and given his intelligence, he'll continue to progress very well in all academic areas.  But just as importantly, he is developing into an extremely well-rounded and ethical person, and a valuable role model for other youth."

Dakota is the son of Gregory and Jodi Payne.  Congratulations Dakota!