Riverside High School has announced the first round of Seniors of the Month for the Class of 2027; congratulations to Kara Klingler and Garrett Purtee.
Kara Klingler is the daughter of Donna & Steve Klingler.
School activities & awards:
Business Professionals of America – 4 years
Held office at the Local, Regional, and State Levels
3-year National Qualifier
Prepared Speech
Small Business Management
Interact – 4 years
Treasurer (25-26)
Secretary (26-27)
Student Council – 4 years
Secretary (26-27)
Pirate Advisory Committee – 4 years
Fellowship of Christian Athletes – 4 years
Vice President (26-27)
Model UN – 3 years
Senior class President
Volleyball – Powerlifting – Softball
If I were principal for a day:
We’d go to church, then head straight to Firehouse Subs for lunch with an acai bowl for our dessert!
Favorite school memory: Car Surfing (Ifykyk) 🏄‍♀️
People who have been an inspiration to me include: (Why?) My church family. The people who have challenged me to grow spiritually and encouraged me to become the person God has called me to be, always reminding me of what truly deserves to come first. Lindsay Wyan. She pushed me to believe in myself when I didn’t, and because of her, I got to experience some of the coolest and most meaningful parts of my high school career. (#GOBPA)
My advice to parents: Be the parent your student can be proud of. Give them direction, but always with the intention of encouraging them, helping them grow, and reminding them that you believe in them.
My biggest regret: Taking the time I’ve had in high school for granted.
Next year I will be: Attending Mount Vernon Nazarene University to complete my bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology, with the hopes of pursuing a career in speech therapy spanning from acute medical care to developmental populations.
Garrett Purtee is the son of Jason Purtee & Brittany Hribal.
School activities & awards: I am a part of Business Professionals of America, Ohio Model United Nations, and student council. I am a member of the high school boys basketball team and football team, receiving my varsity letter in both sports.
If I were principal for a day: I’d have a human foosball tournament
Favorite school memory: This year’s men’s retreat
People who have been an inspiration to me include: My dad. He taught me how important honesty is and how telling the truth will always get you further in life than hiding a lie will. The way he always values my siblings and me before himself shows his selflessness that is something I want to carry into my future. My grandparents have shown me that presence is important. I can always count on them to support me at any event, and I hope my presence is as meaningful and consistent as it has been to me. Coach Hodge showed me how to treat others the way you want to be treated. That’s our golden rule, and it certainly has made me a better person. He has pushed me for years to believe in myself and trust the hard work I put into the classroom and athletics. I will always be thankful for the impact of these people.
My advice to parents: Prioritize accountability, always allow your kids to face the natural and logical consequences of their actions, while staying present; your attendance means the world and gives them a true sense of belonging.
My biggest regret: Always fixating on the negative performances and grades instead of praising the positive ones.
Next year I will be: Attending the University of Northwestern Ohio enrolling in the sports management program in hopes of having a future career as an athletic director and/or coach.
