My visit earlier this school year to Apollo Elementary School revealed high energy, strong leadership, and a home to students who are not only bright but also full of potential and promise. Two such students, Haven Dunn and Savannah Hofer, stand out for their dedication, determination, and unique personalities. Though they may walk different paths within the school, their stories converge on the shared values of hard work, family support, and a deeprooted connection to their community. Both girls sat down with me in the new cafeteria to talk it over.

A Passion for Learning and Curiosity

For Haven, her love of learning is best expressed through her favorite subject—English. She finds immense joy in reading, especially when it comes to diving into the fantastical world of Harry Potter. The magic of words has captured her imagination, allowing her to explore new ideas, faraway lands, and even life lessons hidden within the pages of her favorite books. Haven’s passion for reading isn’t just a hobby; it’s a tool for self-discovery and growth.

Savannah, on the other hand, has a keen interest in the sciences, particularly in botany. Her fascination with the natural world is evident in her eagerness to learn more about plants and how they grow. This curiosity extends to her reading preferences as well, where she often finds herself engrossed in the suspenseful twists of Lemony Snicket or the adventures penned by James Patterson. Savannah’s love for science is more than just a passing interest; it’s the seed of a potential future in a field where discovery and innovation go hand in hand.

Extracurricular Endeavors: A Balanced Life

But it’s not just academics that define these remarkable girls. Haven and Savannah are both deeply involved in extracurricular activities, each finding their own way to express themselves outside the classroom.

Haven channels her energy into cross-country, where she challenges herself to run longer distances with each practice. Running is more than just a sport for her; it’s a personal journey of endurance, discipline, and the joy of setting and achieving goals. She takes pride in the progress she’s made, and her perseverance is a testament to her determination both on and off the track.

Savannah, meanwhile, shines on the softball field. As a shortstop and rover, she’s not just playing the game—she’s mastering it. Savannah’s dedication to her sport is clear in her practice routine and her ambition to try out for volleyball soon. For her, sports are a way to build teamwork, resilience, and a strong sense of self, all of which will serve her well as she grows.

Both girls also have creative outlets that round out their busy schedules. Haven is learning to play the ukulele, a pursuit that adds a melody to her days and provides a new way to express her creativity. Savannah enjoys listening to pop music, with OneRepublic being one of her favorite bands. Music, for both girls, is a way to relax, recharge, and connect with the emotions that drive their dreams.

Family: The Pillar of Strength

The importance of family cannot be overstated in the lives of Haven and Savannah. Haven’s parents are her biggest supporters, instilling in her the values of kindness, dedication, and the importance of hard work. They have created a home environment where Haven feels encouraged to pursue her interests and dreams, knowing that her family is always behind her.

Savannah, too, draws strength from her family. Her mother, who has been her first teacher, and her father, who supports her athletic endeavors, are the cornerstones of her life. Their guidance and encouragement have helped Savannah develop a strong sense of self and a clear vision for her future.

Looking Ahead: Dreams and Aspirations

When it comes to the future, Haven has her sights set on becoming a lawyer. Her natural ability to argue her point—a skill that hasn’t gone unnoticed by her mom—aligns perfectly with this ambition. For Haven, the idea of advocating for others and standing up for what is right is not just a career goal but a reflection of the values she holds dear.

Savannah, with her compassionate and caring nature, dreams of becoming an audiologist or a pediatrician. Her desire to help others and make a positive impact on their lives is the driving force behind her aspirations. Whether she’s studying the intricacies of botany or playing softball, Savannah is always thinking about how she can contribute to the well-being of those around her.

A Community to Be Proud Of

Haven and Savannah’s stories are more than just narratives of two students excelling in school—they are reflections of the values that make Apollo Elementary and Mercer County a special place. Their dedication to learning, commitment to personal growth, and deep sense of community are qualities that not only define them but also serve as a source of pride for everyone I met on my visit to Mercer County—student, staff, and administrator alike.

As these two fifth-graders continue to grow and pursue their dreams, they remind us all of the importance of nurturing the next generation. Haven and Savannah are not just the future of Mercer County; they are its bright, shining present, showing us all that with hard work, support, and a little bit of magic, anything is possible.