Learner of the Month, C.A.K.E. Award Recipients December 2025

Congratulations to Daniel Kunz, a 1st grade learner attending Chubbuck Elementary, and Jesse Tillotson, a 10th grade learner attending Pocatello High School, who were chosen as the Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 December C.A.K.E. award recipients. C.A.K.E. stands for Character, Attitude, Kindness and Encouragement.

Daniel is described by his teacher, Ms. Katie Burrup, as “sunshine in human form” – a learner who brings joy, positivity, and kindness into the classroom every single day.

Ms. Burrup shared that Daniel is not only kind, but also a remarkable role model for his classmates. “He is always attentive and striving to do his best,” she wrote. Daniel loves learning, and his enthusiasm is contagious. His excitement for new knowledge pushes those around him to work hard and do their best as well.

Daniel’s empathy is one of his defining qualities. Ms. Burrup describes him as “very in tune with his classmates’ feelings and his teachers.” He goes out of his way to make others feel special and included, offering support in a caring and encouraging way. Whether he is helping a classmate understand a task or noticing when someone needs a friend, Daniel consistently acts with compassion and understanding.

One touching example came when Daniel told his teacher about organizing a playdate with another learner who needed a friend. “My heart soared, “Ms. Burrup wrote, knowing that Daniel recognized the need and chose to fill it with friendship. He even brings his teacher her favorite drink or candy on occasion – not for attention, but simply because he wants to brighten someone’s day.

Ms. Burrup concluded her nomination by saying, “He makes me so proud to be his teacher. His kind and caring heart will take him so far. We need more people like Daniel to make the world a better, kinder, and more compassionate place.”

Jesse is a member of the Advanced Debate class and the Competitive Speech and Debate team, where he has earned a reputation as a quiet but powerful leader. His nominator, Ms. Dana Facer, wrote that Jesse “goes out of his way to ensure that every member of our team has a place and feels appreciated.” He offers consistent words of encouragement, celebrates the success of his teammates, and helps create a team culture where every learner feels valued.

While Jesse works diligently on his own speeches and debate cases, he still makes time to support others. Ms. Facer noted that he provides “constructive, helpful criticism” to his peers and he is always willing to step in and assist when someone needs guidance. He pays attention to what brings his teammates joy – asking about their favorite topics, offering small, thoughtful gifts, and simply being present when others need a friend.

Jesse’s leadership is rooted in service. Ms. Facer describes him as “a servant leader,” someone who is the first to volunteer and the first to help carry equipment or complete essential tasks – often without being asked and without seeking recognition. His actions speak loudly about his character.

Reflecting on her years of teaching and coaching, Ms. Facer shared, “I can confidently say that Jesse is one of the kindest, most supportive students I have had the privilege of teaching and coaching.”

Daniel and Jesse were recognized at the Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. Our Partner for this award, Johnson Family McDonald's provides each learner and their nominators with a gift card, along with $50 to purchase books for the school’s media center in the recipients’ names.

PCSD 25 believes a safe, supportive, caring and respectful environment is critical to student learning. The District Education Foundation, in partnership with McDonald’s, supports the Learner-of-the-Month C.A.K.E. Award to recognize students who show great character.  The district recognizes one elementary learner and one secondary learner from October through May. Nominations for the C.A.K.E. Award are submitted by a teacher who has observed the nominee’s behavior, and are approved by the school’s principal.