Bryce Kral- January 2024

February 20, 2024

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

January 2024

Yankton High School junior, Bryce Kral, has been named January Student of the Month by Horizon Health Care and Hot Country 93.1. He was nominated by a teacher at Yankton High School, who wrote, “What truly sets Bryce apart is his genuine kindness and sense of humor. He is always quick to lend a helping hand to his peers and teachers alike, creating a supportive and inclusive environment within our school community. Bryce’s infectious laughter and quick wit have a way of brightening even the toughest days, reminding us all to find joy and humor in every moment.”

Kral is involved in National Honor Society, football, basketball and track and field at Yankton High School.

“He is an exemplary member of our junior class. His commitment to academic success is evident in his consistent participation in class discussions, his diligent completion of assignments, and his eagerness to learn. Bryce’s enthusiasm for learning is infectious, and he never hesitates to ask insightful questions that push the boundaries of our classroom discussions.” The nomination also continued to say, “Beyond his academic achievements, Bryce is a dedicated participant in sports year-round. His involvement in athletics showcases his strong work ethic, discipline, and team spirit”
– YHS Nominator

Kral’s hobbies and interests include participating in sports, being with friends and watching movies. His parents are Jason and Michelle Kral of Yankton. After high school he plans to attend college.

The “Student of the Month” is awarded through a partnership of Horizon Health Care and Hot Country 93.1 in Yankton, South Dakota and recognizes exceptional students in the Yankton School District. Horizon Health Care offers health care and dental services to the cities of Yankton, Elk Point, and Alcester in the Hot Country 93.1 listening area.

Beginning January of 2022 a student of the month is selected each month of the school year. Horizon Health Care selects an outstanding student and awards them with a recognition certificate and a small token, and is recognized on Hot Country 93.1 radio. Officials from Yankton High School nominate students for the award.

Lance Dannenbring- December 2023

January 22, 2024

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

December 2023

Yankton High School senior, Lance Dannenbring, has been named December Student of the Month by Horizon Health Care and Hot Country 93.1. He was nominated by a teacher at Yankton High School, who says he “exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding student and an exceptional individual in every aspect of his life. His dedication, kindness, maturity, and exemplary leadership shine through in all dimensions—academics, sports, peer relationships, school involvement, and his commitment to faith.”

Lance is involved in student council, National Honor Society, Science Olympiad, soccer and track at Yankton High School.

“What truly sets Lance apart is his kindness and compassion. He goes out of his way to support and uplift his classmates, creating an inclusive and supportive environment for everyone around him. Lance’s maturity is beyond his years, as he handles situations with grace and empathy, making him a role model for his peers. Lance is an exceptional individual who embodies the qualities of a model student and a true leader”
– YHS Nominator

Awards, academic achievements and special honors for Lance include: Merit Roll of Excellence, Bausch + Lomb Honorary Science Award, 1st Team Academic and Athletic All-State award for Boys Soccer, and 2-time recipient of Yankton Boys Soccer Most Valuable Player.

Dannenbring’s hobbies and interests include rock collecting, reading, training for sports and mountain biking.

Lance’s parents are David and Dorota Dannenbring of Yankton. After high school he plans to attend the University of Nebraska at Lincoln and major in chemical engineering.

Katie Schulte- November 2023

December 17, 2023

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

November 2023

Yankton High School senior, Katie Schulte, has been named November Student of the Month by Horizon
Health Care and Hot Country 93.1.

“Katie Schulte consistently demonstrates her commitment to being a good citizen both inside and outside the classroom. Her kindness and hardworking nature shine through in everything she
does, especially evident in her dedication to several challenging AP classes.
Beyond her academic achievements, Katie’s warmth and support make her a great friend to
her classmates. Her all-around excellence and positive influence on the school community make her an ideal choice for this honor. ”
– YHS Nominator

Katie is involved in competitive dance team, football and basketball sideline cheer, student council,
National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and is the Senior Class Vice President at
Yankton High School.

Awards, academic achievements and special honors for Katie include: Academic All-State award, 2023
Sideline Cheer Athlete of the Year, and National Honor Society Officer. She was awarded the Touchstone
Energy Scholar of the Week Scholarship, named United States Senate Youth Program Delegate, and is on
the Roll of Excellence.

Schulte’s hobbies and interests include quilting, walleye fishing and reading.
Katie’s parents are Gary and Nancy Schulte of Yankton. After high school she plans to attend either
South Dakota State University or Creighton University and major in biology with hopes to attend medical
school and pursue a career as a pediatric cardiologist or oncologist.

The “Student of the Month” is awarded through a partnership of Horizon Health Care and Hot Country
93.1 in Yankton, South Dakota and recognizes exceptional students in the Yankton School District.
Horizon Health Care offers health care and dental services to the cities of Yankton, Elk Point, and
Alcester in the Hot Country 93.1 listening area.

Beginning January of 2022 a student of the month is selected each month of the school year. Horizon
Health Care selects an outstanding student and awards them with a recognition certificate and a small
token, and is recognized on Hot Country 93.1 radio. Officials from Yankton High School nominate
students for the award.

Madeline Wintz- October 2023

November 21, 2023

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

October 2023

Yankton High School senior, Madeline Wintz, has been named October Student of the Month by Horizon Health Care and Hot Country 93.1.

“Madeline Wintz is not only exceptionally kind, but also remarkably hard-working, demonstrating a level of dedication that is truly commendable. Her commitment to her studies is evident in the quality of her work and her consistent effort to go above and beyond expectations.”
– YHS Nominator

Madeline is involved with the dance team, sideline cheer, acapella choir, student council, National Honor Society, and the spring musical at Yankton High School. She also participates in the Academy of Dance and Sacred Heart Church Youth Group.

Awards, academic achievements and special honors for Madeline include: all-state choir, academic letter, athletic letter, arts letter, is on the roll of excellence and she received the Opportunity Scholarship and Coyote Beginnings scholarship.

Wintz’s nomination also stated, “One of the most striking aspects of Madeline’s character is her vivacious spirit. She approaches every challenge with enthusiasm and a positive attitude, uplifting those around her with her infectious energy. This zest for life is not only refreshing but also serves as an inspiration to her peers, reminding them of the boundless potential within each of them.”

Her hobbies and interests include dancing, cheering, singing, hanging out with friends, going to sporting events, boating, vacationing, and swimming.

Madeline’s parents are Holly and Paul Wintz of Yankton. After high school she plans to attend the University of South Dakota and study communication sciences and disorders and become a speech pathologist.

Ben Merkwan- September 2023

November 6, 2023

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

September 2023

Yankton High School senior, Ben Merkwan, has been named September Student of the Month by Horizon Health Care and Hot Country 93.1. He was nominated by a teacher at Yankton High School, who says he has a commitment to academic excellence. Ben recently notified that he was a semifinalist in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship program and eligible to continue in the scholarship program.

“The nationwide group of Semifinalists represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors and includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. This is an incredible honor and is a testament to Ben’s commitment to academic excellence.”
– YHS Nominator

Ben is involved in symphonic and jazz band at YHS, student council, and also holds an officer position with the Yankton High School’s chapter of National Honor Society, and on the Roll of Excellence.

In his free time he enjoys music and bodybuilding.

Ben’s parents are Valerie and Joel Merkwan of Yankton. After high school he plans to attend South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in an undecided major.

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July 31, 2023

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Joseph Holan- April 2023

May 31, 2023

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

April 2023

Yankton High School senior, Joseph Holan, has been named April Student of the Month by Horizon Health Care and Hot Country 93.1. He was nominated by a teacher at Yankton High School, who says he’s one of those students who always works hard and has a good attitude.

“I really admire the way he commits to working hard and strives to be the best version of himself.”
– YHS Nominator

Joseph has been involved in Yankton High School Bowling, acapella choir, and orchestra. As a singer, Holan was selected to All-State Choir. In his free time he enjoys bowling, hanging out with friends and family, playing video games, singing and music.

On Holan’s nomination it’s stated that he shares his talent with the school and community, “He leads by example. He focuses in class and asks questions when he doesn’t understand or needs extra reps. I observe students going to him for help or questions during class because they respect him and know he is knowledgeable. He volunteers to sing at events within our community, sharing his talents with the elderly in the town as well as singing the National Anthem at sporting events in Yankton. His contributions to the high school and community are so wonderful!”

Joseph’s parents are Laurie and Chuck Holan of Yankton. After high school he plans to enter the workforce and find a job that suits him.

Hannah Tramp- March 2023

April 27, 2023

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

March 2023

Yankton High School senior, Hannah Tramp, has been named March Student of the Month by Horizon Health Care and Hot Country 93.1. She was nominated by a teacher at Yankton High School, who says she’s a student more students need to strive to be.

“Hannah impresses me with her desire to learn, to perfect, and to succeed in her academics and extracurricular activities.”
– YHS Nominator

Hannah has been involved in soccer, theater, acapella choir, and student council at YHS, on the Roll of Excellence and served as an intern at Sacred Heart Elementary. She is also a lifeguard and swim lessons instructor at the Summit Activities Center and the Heuther Family Aquatics Center.

Other comments on Tramp’s nomination stated that she excels in her academics and “she has this tenacious personality that shines through in every aspect in her life.”

Hannah’s parents are Shawndel and Chris Tramp of Yankton. After high school she plans to attend the University of South Dakota to pursue a degree in elementary education.

Allie Taggart- February 2023

March 14, 2023

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

February 2023

Yankton High School senior, Allie Taggart, has been named February Student of the Month by Horizon Health Care and Hot Country 93.1. She was nominated by a teacher at Yankton High School, who says “Allie should be selected as Student of the Month because of her passion. You can see it in everything she does for the YHS fine arts and the students she helps each day.”

“Allie is willing to put in hours for the things she does including schoolwork. She will give her 110% while smiling. When she walks into a room, you can see her positive attitude radiate from within.”
– YHS Nominator

Allie is currently involved in Yankton High School theater and acappella choir. She is on the honor roll at YHS and has received a theater scholarship and an academic scholarship. Her hobbies and interests include singing and being with kids.

Other comments on Taggart’s nomination stated “Allie is pursuing a career in education, which I think is fitting for her. Allie touches the lives of the teachers around her, the students she helps out now and in the future, and her peers though activities.”

Allie’s parents are Bill and Denise Taggart of Yankton. After high school she plans to attend Mount Marty University to pursue a degree in elementary education.

Beginning in January of 2022, a student of the month is selected each month of the school year. Horizon Health Care selects an outstanding student and awards them with a recognition certificate and a small token, and is recognized on Hot Country 93.1 radio. Officials from Yankton High School nominate students for the award.

Adianis Reyes Rodriguez- January 2023

February 10, 2023

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

January 2023

Yankton High School senior, Adianis Reyes Rodriguez, has been named January Student of the Month by Horizon Health Care and Hot Country 93.1. She was nominated by a teacher at Yankton High School, who says “she is compassionate, dependable and hardworking which makes her stand out in school.”

“Adianis should be selected as student of the month because of her leadership skills. She has become a leader in the ESL community by helping ESL students.”
– YHS Nominator

Adianis is currently interning at Lincoln Elementary School helping ESL students, like her, to learn English. She is also on the honor roll at Yankton High School and loves to read in her free time.

Other comments on Reyes Rodriguez’s nomination stated “she is the ESL student chosen to welcome, lead and assist new ESL students in our community. She also takes it upon herself to help friends and family that have a language barrier. She will definitely be a leader in any community.”

Adianis’s parents are Ada and Calixto Rodriguez Reyes of Mission Hill. After high school she plans to attend college at the University of South Dakota to pursue a degree in education.