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

Congratulations to Keegan Karn, a 3rd grade learner attending Jefferson Elementary, and Forest Andersen, a 7th grade learner attending Alameda Middle School, who were chosen as the Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 October C.A.K.E. award recipients. C.A.K.E. stands for Character, Attitude, Kindness and Encouragement.

Keegan was nominated by his teacher, Ms. Priestly.  Ms. Priestly wrote in her nomination letter, “It is an absolute joy to recommend Keegan Karn for the C.A.K.E. award. Each day, he brings something truly special to our classroom through his character, attitude, and love of learning.

Keegan has a wonderful sense of creativity that shines through in classwork and discussions. He approaches every new idea with curiosity and excitement, showing a genuine passion for learning. Challenges never discourage Keegan; instead, he meets them with energy and determination, which inspires those around him to do the same.

What stands out most is the way Keegan treats others. He is consistently friendly and kind to everyone, always looking for ways to include others so no one feels left out. His positive outlook makes our classroom a happier, more welcoming place, and he sets an example of encouragement and respect that classmates naturally want to follow.

For all these reasons, I believe Keegan truly embodies what it means to be a C.A.K.E. award nominee. He show us every day how creativity, kindness, and a love of learning can make a difference in our classroom community.”

Forest was nominated by his teachers, Ms. McGrory and Ms. Matthews. Forest is a learner who brightens the day of everyone around him. His teacher, Ms. Matthews shared that Forest is someone she looks forward to seeing each and every day. She has never seen him without a smile. Like a bubbling fountain, his joy and kindness refresh everyone he meets. Forest consistently extends friendship and positivity to his peers, and his genuine character shines through in his honesty and integrity – qualities that are truly remarkable for his age.

Forests Warmth and friendliness are contagious. Ms. Matthews noted that even the most reserved learners can’t help but return his smile. He engages in meaningful conversations with both teachers and classmates, though he often doesn’t realize just how much his optimism and kindness uplift those around him.

Ms. McGrory described forest as “every teacher’s dream student.” He is always ready to lend a hand, offer encouragement, or help a classmate feel included. If there’s a quiet student who needs a friend. Forest is the one who will sit beside them, gently drawing them into learning and conversation. His enthusiasm for school is equally impressive – he approaches every lesson with curiosity, excitement and a love for reading and sharing what he’s learned.

Forest’s kindness, positive attitude, and genuine care for others make him a shining example of what the CAKE Award represents. He reminds us all that being your best self – and helping others do the same – is the sweetest recipe for success.

Keegan and Forest were recognized at the Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday, October 21, 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.

If you would like to nominate a learner for the C.A.K.E. Award, you can do so here.