Gira, Kalis, Kotak, Molargik, Brossoit, Borio named SOTW

LIVINGSTON COUNTY — We’re back with another excellent group of local students.

Each week, high school principals and staffers in Livingston County share their nominees for Students of the Week. We share those honorees online Fridays and in print Sundays.

This week’s students were nominated for their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, kindness and service to their school community.

Class of 5/16:

John Gira, Brighton High School

This week, Brighton High School recognizes John, a standout senior with a 4.135 GPA and a passion for both computer science and music. A dedicated member of the Brighton High School Marching Band all four years, he also participated in Guitar Club during his freshman and sophomore years, formed his own “Wonderband” and works hard at Qdoba. 

While he plans to pursue computer science after graduation, John said joining his father’s band has been the most meaningful experience of his high school career. “Being a musician is the most important thing to me in life,” he shared. BHS is proud to celebrate John for his academic excellence, strong work ethic and artistic dedication. 

Salene Kalis, Fowlerville High School

Salene, a distinguished senior in the Class of 2025, has earned the title of salutatorian through her unwavering dedication and academic excellence. A hardworking and kind individual, Salene has excelled in a demanding college preparatory schedule, including multiple AP courses such as AP Language, AP Physics, AP Calculus, AP Literature, AP Biology and AP U.S. History.

In addition to her coursework, Salene has taken advantage of dual enrollment opportunities to further challenge herself and prepare for college. She also serves as an officer in the National Honor Society, demonstrating leadership and a commitment to service. Outside the classroom, she brings the same level of determination and teamwork to the ice as a dedicated ice hockey player. Salene is a shining example of what it means to be a true Gladiator. 

Cristian Kotak, Hartland High School

Cristian, a sophomore, has a huge presence at Hartland High School — he is always smiling and positive. Cristian is supportive of all his peers and someone who lifts people up on a daily basis. He works hard in all his classes, always striving to do the best he can. He has a true talent for Engineering and Computer Aided Design and hopes to pursue that as a career path in the future.

Carly Molargik, Howell High School

Carly is an exceptional student whose positivity and kindness brighten the halls of Howell High School. Always wearing a smile, Carly is a friendly face to everyone she meets and a true pleasure to be around. A dedicated and high-achieving student, Carly excels in AP classes and maintains an impressive GPA.

Her involvement matches her commitment to academics in school activities. She is an active member of the Leadership Program, contributes to the Yearbook and serves on the Student Council. Carly’s enthusiasm, hard work and school spirit make her a role model for her peers. HHS is proud to recognize Carly as this week’s Student of the Week for the energy, effort and excellence she brings to Highlander Nation. 

Spencer Brossoit, Pinckney Community High School

Spencer is the definition of a well-rounded student — excelling in advanced academic courses, performing with dedication in orchestra and leading with integrity on the football field. As a scholar-athlete-musician, he balances his many commitments with humility and grace, always giving his best without seeking the spotlight. Spencer is a great leader to both his peers and underclassmen, many of whom look up to him for guidance and inspiration. 

Known for his kindness, leadership and social intelligence, Spencer is quick to help others, answer questions and approach situations with thoughtful perspectives. He demonstrates a genuine love of learning and an appreciation for the small things in life. Next year, he will attend Eastern Michigan University to pursue a degree in health sciences, and PCHS has no doubt he will continue to lead and excel in all he does. PCHS is proud to celebrate Spencer and the positive impact he’s made on the school community. 

Mox Borio, Kensington Woods Schools

Mox, a sophomore, recently completed her AP Studio Art Portfolio, a significant accomplishment that showcases not only her artistic talent but also her profound insight. Her portfolio thoughtfully explores the experience of trying to navigate societal norms while you don’t feel like you fit within them, demonstrating both courage and deep reflection. This dedication is characteristic of Mox, who is a diligent, cheerful and cooperative student, consistently contributing positively to the school environment. 

Beyond her artistic achievements, Mox is a valued member of the Kensington Woods Volleyball Team and is known for her willingness to embrace new challenges. She possesses an excellent work ethic and a wonderful sense of humor that enriches our school community. Her teachers describe her as exceptionally creative, profoundly kind and maintaining a great attitude in all her endeavors. Her positive energy and respect for others is admired by her peers and the staff and Kensington Woods. 

— Contact reporter Evan Sasiela at esasiela@livingstondaily.com. Follow him on X @SalsaEvan.