Downsview Secondary School
Student of the Week
April 14, 2025
Daniela R.A.
Downsview, for the week of April 14th, your Student of the Week is Daniela R.A.
Daniela is in the twelfth grade; she will graduate soon.
Perhaps you don’t know Daniela. You have, however, seen her work. At the Truth and Reconciliation assembly last week, you bore witness to the beautiful tapestry that she has been working on for nearly two years. Daniela brings her growing talent, her attention to detail and her time to make our school better. Let’s hear more, first, from Mr Wallace: “Daniela has transformed herself into a quiet leader. Her journey has many steps. To keep it simple: first she figured out how to take care of herself, and now she can take care of others. Daniela has always been caring, but she understood she needed to put herself first. This year, Daniela has come on strong and we are all better for it. She is one of the leaders in the Latin Club, Raices en Moviemento (Roots in Motion). A new club in its second year needed new leadership after its founders graduated last year. Daniela and a few others stepped in. Daniela has also been the lead in creating a huge new tapestry celebrating Indigenous people and culture. She has directly trained and guided a dedicated team to become expert sewers. Watching the team grow in skill, comfort and confidence is a testament to her compassionate, encouraging leadership. The tapestry is nearly complete and it's going to be gorgeous. Daniela has a particularly useful concept of what creativity is; not only is it individual inspiration and genius, which she has - just ask her about making clothes- but also about building a community of makers committed to bringing great things into the world. The feelings of accomplishment for those involved are powerful. The impact on the rest of us is inspiring.”
Mr Pasian has this to say: “She is doing extremely well in mathematics this semester. She is hardworking, polite, courteous, and conscientious. I'm not sure what Daniela is pursuing after high school, but I know she will be very successful in whatever she decides to do for post secondary studies.”
Eric Solis adds: “Daniela is a natural leader with great charisma and a genuine passion to help others. She is a mentor to all students and she will always embrace opportunities to enhance the student experience in the building. She also continues to make significant contributions to the school community including taking on a leadership role in the Latin Committee Group with courage and enthusiasm.”
From Ms Persaud: “Daniela is currently in my grade 12 English class and although I've only known Daniela briefly, she has proven to be a hardworking, reliable and kind student. I am impressed at Daniela's perseverance to learn English and her ability to adapt so well in a new environment. Congratulations on this achievement Daniela! I am confident it will be one of many for you!”
Mr Lam has this to say: "Daniela is a conscientious student who always brings a smile and creates a positive and friendly aura around her peers each and every day in class. Daniela is a student who takes her academic work seriously and has earned a position in the Honour Roll recognition assembly. Daniela is patient and perseveres in her learning. Daniella would wait patiently for a teacher to receive help when she notices a teacher is busy supporting her peers. Daniela also exhibits excellent leadership skills as she often takes on a leadership role when working in group work to solve various math problems. Daniela also participates actively in the school community. She helped out in the Wellness evening to ensure the event ran smoothly. You have heard it here, Daniela, please continue to shine, and congratulations for winning Student of the Week.”
Ms Lee rounds out the praise with these words: “Daniela has an innate ability to look at a variety of mediums and create beautiful pieces of art. Art in hair, makeup, fabric, paints and of course the amazing school tapestry project. A project that she has led and worked on for two years! Working with Daniela is easy. She takes on projects with a positive attitude and takes creative risks. She considers different perspectives and keeps an open-mindedness even if she's unsure of the outcome. Way to go, Daniela!”
Daniela, inside and outside the classroom, you are doing fine work and showing fine character. We see you and we appreciate you and we salute you, Daniela, as our Student of the Week.