Downsview Secondary School
Student of the Week
May 20, 2024

Arlene G. 

Downsview, for the week of May 20th, your Student of the Week is Arlene G.
Arlene is in the eleventh grade at Downsview.

Let’s get right to the praise for Arlene, scholar and involved community member. Hear this, from Dr Syal: “I had the pleasure of teaching physics to Arlene, who is also part of the robotics team. She is a quiet student and member, but she gets things done. She was part of the tool management and was responsible for building the bumpers for the bot. She does not shy away from public speaking. She has shown growth in the area of leadership. I most admire her calm nature. I wish Arlene much luck with her future endeavours.”

And, from Mr Hum: “I had the privilege of teaching Arlene last semester in bio class. Arlene is a very kind and gentle soul who has tons of potential. In class, she gets along with everyone she interacts with and is never shy to help those around her. Congrats and keep up the great work, Arlene!”

Ms Lee has this to say: “Arlene has been a member of numerous clubs and extracurricular activities here at DSS. She has built strong relationships and I have witnessed her creativity, communication and commitment to important matters that affect girls, women and Indigenous communities through the Sisterhood and Truth and Reconciliation clubs. When I see Arlene attend a meeting, I know things will get done. She is reliable, intelligent and kind. Way to go, Arlene! This one's for you!”

And, from Ms de Jersey: “Thinking of Arlene, a book called Quiet Power comes to mind. In this non-fiction work, writer Susan Cain notes that ‘the most effective leaders are not motivated by a desire to control events or to be in the spotlight. They are motivated by the desire to advance ideas and new ways of looking at the world, or to improve the situation of a group of people. These motivations belong to introverts and extroverts alike. You can achieve these same goals - you can be inspiring and motivational - without compromising your quiet ways.’ This excerpt makes me think of Arlene. Quiet, smart and powerful - check, check, check.”

Arlene, Downsview is better for having you. Your involvement and leadership matter. We thank you and we salute you as our Student of the Week.