Downsview Secondary School
Student of the Week
February 17, 2025
Lucy P.
Downsview, for the week of February 17th, your Student of the Week is Lucy P.
Lucy is in the eleventh grade at Downsview.
Selecting Lucy as this week’s Student of the Week was, frankly, easy. Lucy is an evolving leader at Downsview; she wears the role with both grace and an air of surprise. Lucy may just be starting to see her own power as a leader. Make no mistake, though - she is a person to watch.
Let’s hear from her nominators, first from Mr do Carmo: “Lucy was in my Construction Technology class last year. Her patience and attention to detail helped her to create some amazing projects. She reads and listens to instructions and also asks questions to gather information so that she can do the best she can. And that she does. She is also kind and always willing to assist a classmate to improve on their skills and assignments. She has a curious mind and is not shy to take on something that she is not familiar with just so she can learn new skills. I look forward to seeing what she is capable of creating this semester in my Communication Technology class. Stay curious, Lucy. Well deserved.”
And, hear this, from Ms Lee: “Recently, Lucy attended a Women in Trades Bootcamp, and I got to see her in action. Throughout the three workshops—plumbing, electrical, and HVAC—Lucy dove right in, willing to get her hands dirty and ready to get the job done. It was clear that she was not only learning but also enjoying the experience. I'm incredibly impressed by Lucy's positive attitude, appreciation and eagerness to learn new skills. Lucy, your enthusiasm and positive attitude are next level. There is no limit to what you can accomplish!”
Dr Syal has this to say: “I have had the pleasure of teaching Lucy for the past three years. She is also a member of the Robotics Team. She actively promotes our team by getting sponsors and helping Mr do Carmo print 3D parts for the bot. She is an excellent student who comes to school with a positive outlook. She always has a smile on her face and brings enthusiasm to my class. She is leading a workshop at Downsview soon, too! I am glad Lucy chose Downsview to be her school.”
From Mr Kindred: “I will dispense with a long preamble to state simply, and unequivocally, that I can think of no other worthy candidate to be in acceptance of this award than Lucy Pham of Downsview Secondary. Although I’ve only taught Lucy for but one course last semester, her presence has been felt in many interactions since then. Lucy is one part of a vibrant cadre of fashionistas at our school who showcase their style and individuality through not only their inspired attire, but also their maturity, grace, dignity, and selflessness. In this merry band of consorts, Lucy could easily be considered the George Harrison of the group: wise and silent, intelligent beyond her years, and generous when it comes to sharing ideas as well as the conversational stage.
To put it even more simply: Lucy is a compassionate listener– both a rarity and a blessing in her age bracket. She is a person who absorbs what is being said and asks follow up questions that signify an intention to learn more. For me personally, it’s a welcome reprieve to be queried on something other than: ‘why are you bald?’ or ‘do you have a closet of black and blue hoodies?’ or ‘my birthday’s next week, what will you get me?’
In any case, thank you so much Lucy for your grace, your curiosity, and your ability to make people's day by simply being…you. Not only are you Student of the Week, you are an incredible person; a distinction to which no mere accolade can ever truly encapsulate.”
And finally, from Mr Phillips: “Though I've never had the pleasure of teaching Lucy, I've worked with her on the Robotics Team. She has taken on a crucial leadership role on the team. She is organizing fundraising for the team and is also working with Mr do Carmo designing and 3D printing motor covers for our bot. From the first time I met Lucy I knew I was conversing with an uber-intelligent and hyper-aware young woman. Her intelligence is only matched by her sense of humour. She has sharp as a tack wit, so stay on your toes when chatting with her! I know Lucy is going to go somewhere and do big things. Congrats on winning Student of the Week!”
Lucy, you heard it here. This award is all about character, and character in action, and your character stands out. It is a pleasure to applaud you, Lucy, as our Student of the Week.