The Maine Township High School District 207 Board of Education honored three students in the area of extracurricular activities naming them “207’s Best” at a recent meeting. Kamila Pasnicki from Maine West was honored for her dedication, curiosity and inclusiveness.
The following information was written about Kamila Pasnicki as part of the nomination by Maine West principal Dr. Eileen McMahon:
KAMILA PASNICKI, MAINE WEST
The thing to know about Kamila Pasnicki is this: even when she’s finished, she isn’t finished. She will always keep her mind moving, keep on learning, keep on thinking. She sees this as essential not just to her future, but to our collective future as a democracy. She feels pulled to the process of research, of questioning what feels like the truth, of seeking out a good reason to change her mind. She talks about the world with her family, with her fellow members of the Current Events Club, and sometimes with friends when she sees how events around the world affect the everyday lives of people she knows. She pays attention to how teachers lead discussions in unbiased ways, to contextualize things and represent thinking from multiple perspectives. In these conversations, Kamila learns how to stay on the side of the truth, and to recognize that that ground is often shifting and move accordingly.
We talked about her future in public policy or political science, and about her passion for Current Events Club, where she curates materials for briefing packets and relishes a safe space to talk and learn from one another. But the list of activities to which Kamila has devoted herself in her four years at Maine West is pages long. Throughout all of her pursuits, Kamila has been dedicated, generous, and deeply connected to making a contribution to those around her, and to the world. Badminton, Chorus, Mock Trial, Tennis, Multilingual Warriors Club, Polish Club, Link Crew, Key Club, West’s Got Talent, Women’s Empowerment Club, Book Club, Thrift Club, and numerous honors societies – that’s just this year. Fencing and Philosophy Club and Student Ambassadors are also on the list. It’s not clear to me how Kamila has found the time to give so much of herself to all these things, but it is clear to me that she has made a tremendous impact on the community we build together at Maine West.
Her teachers spoke about that impact, not just in her extracurriculars but especially in the classroom.
English teacher Mr. Getz described Kamila as “a ray of sunshine in any classroom. Her bright smile, friendly demeanor, and positive attitude reflect on all around her, helping everyone she knows see the better part of themselves.”
Mr. Fouts shared how he can count on Kamila as a touchstone in Gov class. “You will not find a more thoughtful, passionate person than Kamila. She was always the first student to show up in the morning in AP Government, ready to explore ideas, engage her classmates, and leave class wondering about something meaningful. Kamila’s presence set a tone of earnest interest. I often looked to her reactions in class as signposts for whether a lesson was landing in just the right way. And in that sense, she became something like my de facto teacher’s assistant. I have no doubt that she will thrive far beyond the walls of Maine West.”
Spanish teacher Mr. Galanes searched for the proper adverb to intensify his descriptions of Kamila as a student. “One adverb that would add detail to who Kamila has been in my classes is exceptionally. She is exceptionally hard-working, exceptionally conscientious, exceptionally diligent and dedicated in her learning of the Spanish language and culture. Moreover, Kamila is exceptionally considerate and well- respected among her peers. It has been a privilege to have Kamila in my Spanish 3 and V AP language classes.”
Key Club sponsor Ms. Garrity Rodinos talked about Kamila’s leadership and service. “Kamila is an amazing leader. She was our Key Club Secretary. Each month she was responsible for submitting our monthly report. She submitted her report early each month. Kamila was not afraid to share ideas and always strived to be “the voice” for all students!”
Coach Webber described Kamila’s invaluable presence as a leader on the Badminton team. “She always gives 100% both on the court and off the court. She is very helpful to her teammates and her coaches. Kamila is a very smart player, analyzing her opponents and adjusting when necessary to their strengths and weaknesses. She is also very positive and supportive to her teammates while demonstrating great leadership skills. Even though Kamila is involved in a variety of activities, she is able to balance them. She is very deserving of 207’s Best — Extracurriculars Award.”
Ms. Herrera, who is new to Maine West this year, discovered in Kamila a great leader in the choir program. “Kamila is a truly exceptional musician whose dedication to choir is evident in everything she does. Not only does she give her full effort during rehearsals, but she consistently takes the initiative to grow by taking her music home, and even checking in with me consistently so she knows her part. I can recall so many times during rehearsal where any musical direction I give, she will immediately take a moment to make sure to write it down in her music. As a member of Chamber Choir and Choraliers, her commitment, positive attitude, and passion for music sets an example for her peers!”
Finally, Mr. Hassman, our Link Crew sponsor, spoke of Kamila’s contributions to events when Link Crew leaders act as ambassadors for all families. “There are students who attend school, and then there are students who build school. Kamila is the most committed community-builder I have ever met.
If there is an event that enhances the lives of our MW families—whether it’s a late-night orientation or a mid-summer event, Kamila is always right in the middle of the action, making sure everything runs smoothly.
Kamila’s impact goes deeper than just being present. Kamila lives and breathes a spirit of inclusion. I have watched her, time and time again, move seamlessly between languages, acting as a vital bridge for our community. Kamila has a unique talent for finding families who might feel disconnected by a language barrier and ensuring they aren’t just ‘included,’ but warmly embraced.
Because of Kamila, our school doesn’t just feel like a building; it feels like a home where everyone belongs.”
Congratulations, Kamila, and thank you for all that you have given to Maine West High School.