Ava Koller – May 2024

May 21, 2024

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

May 2024

Yankton High School senior, Ava Koller, has been named May Student of the Month by Horizon Health Care and Hot Country 93.1. She was nominated by a staff member at Yankton High School who wrote, “Ava is a fun, caring and well-rounded individual. Her positive energy goes far in YHS!”

Koller participates in volleyball, gymnastics and is a member of the National Honor Society at YHS. She was named Athlete of the Year on three occasions, on the Honor Roll, Academic All-State recipient, and a Regent Scholar. Koller received both the Rich Schild Memorial Scholarship and the Robbie Robinson Scholarship.

In her free time, Ava’s hobbies and interests include spending time outside with friends and family.

“We love watching her succeed in both academics and in athletics. Ava has a bright future ahead of her and will go far.”
– YHS Nominator

Her parents are Julie and Jason Koller of Yankton. After high school she plans to attend the University of South Dakota to study nursing.

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.

Jason Mora Guitron – April 2024

May 1, 2024

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

April 2024

Yankton High School senior, Jason Mora Guitron, has been named April Student of the Month by Horizon Health Care and Hot Country 93.1. He was nominated by a staff member at Yankton High School, who wrote, “Jason is a very passionate student at YHS. I have watched him succeed from YMS to YHS, and he has continued to be a positive role model for all students.”

Mora Guitron participates in concert band, symphonic band and the jazz band at YHS. He has also been on the Honor Roll while at YHS.

In his free time, Jason’s hobbies and interests include hanging out with friends, fishing, golfing, and working at El Tapatio and Avera Sacred Heart Majestic Bluffs.

“His future plans after high school show exactly how driven he is to make a difference.”
– YHS Nominator

His parents are Maria Guitron and Leopoldo Mora of Yankton. After high school he plans to attend the University of South Dakota to study biology and pre-med.

Payton Moser- March 2024

April 1, 2024

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

March 2024

Yankton High School senior, Payton Moser, has been named March Student of the Month by Horizon Health Care and Hot Country 93.1. She was nominated by a staff member at Yankton High School, who wrote, “Payton is a great role model at YHS. She sets realistic goals and works hard to achieve them.”

Moser participates in volleyball, basketball and softball at YHS as well as YGSA Travel Softball and CPAC Travel Volleyball.

Moser was awarded the 2022 YHS Volleyball In Your Face Award, 2022 and 2023 Defensive Player of the Year, YHS single season dig record holder, and YHS all-time career digs record holder. She also received the 2023 and 224 YHS Basketball Defensive Player of the year award, 2023 W.I.T (Whatever It Takes) Award, 2024 Bierle Basketball Award Recipient, YHS Softball Most Triples in a Single Season, 2023 Energy Train Award and was on the 2023 7th Place State Softball Team at the AA tournament. She is also the recipient of an academic and athletic award at Dakota Wesleyan University.

“Payton is motivated, respectful and a passionate student and athlete at YHS. Payton maintains positive relationships and we will miss her after graduation.”
– YHS Nominator

In her free time, Payton enjoys art. Her parents are Brad and Stephanie Moser of Yankton. After high school she plans to attend Dakota Wesleyan University to play volleyball and study elementary education.

Daniela Mora Duarte- February 2024

March 1, 2024

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

February 2024

Yankton High School junior, Daniela Mora Duarte, 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 wrote, “Daniela, a dedicated junior, exemplifies kindness and diligence in all aspects of her academic journey. Her commitment to her studies is unparalleled, as evidenced by her willingness to go above and beyond by attending extra periods to complete testing.”

Mora Duarte has been listed on the honor roll two times at Yankton High School.

“Daniela’s compassionate nature shines through in her interactions with both peers and educators, as noted by substitutes who have commended her for her kindness and helpfulness. Daniela’s exemplary character and strong work ethic make her not only a good student but also a commendable individual deserving of this honor.”
– YHS Nominator

Mora Duarte’s hobbies and interests include reading, going on walks, listening to music, and learning French. Her parents are Daniel Duarte and Margarita Mora of Yankton. After high school she plans to attend college.

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.

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.