When it comes to students who are leaders in their community and classroom, Sleepy Eye has many to choose from. Those who received the ExCEL award for this year, however, are George Hirschboeck, Cassie Cselovszki, Isaiah Butler and Molly Moldan.

Sponsored by the Minnesota State High School League, ExCEL is a recognition program designed exclusively for Minnesota high school juniors.

Students who are active in extra-curricular activities, show leadership qualities and are model citizens in their community are eligible for the award. They are selected through a multi-level process that involves member schools and an independent panel of judges.

A new student at Sleepy Eye Public School (SEPS), Cassie Cselovszki has stayed busy playing numerous sports. She is currently enjoying her position as a guard on the basketball team, but also runs track and cross country.

Also at SEPS, George Hirschboeck loves playing football and hockey. “I like how you work really hard for something to achieve a goal,” he explained.

In the fine arts, Cassie has played trombone in band and jazz band for many years. Also, she enjoys Knowledge Bowl, mock trial and speech. The speech she is currently working on is in support of a four-day school week.

Artistically, George plays percussion in band, sings bass in choir and acts in numerous school and community plays. Most recently, George starred as George Bailey in “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

In the classroom, Cassie is a member of the National Honors Society (NHS), and her favorite subject is math. “It’s not too hard for me,” she said.

George is also an NHS member and junior class representative for the student council. His favorite courses include government and social studies.

When it comes to volunteering, Cassie gained valuable experience through a class she took at her old school. Entitled “Learning to Give,” this course involved picking a charity to help and doing lots of fundraisers to raise money for the cause.

George has stayed busy volunteering through NHS projects and involvement in his church. He has gone on mission trips to New Orleans and an Indian reservation.

At St. Mary’s, Molly Moldan was chosen to receive this award for many reasons. As an athlete, Molly has excelled in volleyball, basketball and softball. She has also received the Presidential Physical Fitness Award.

Also at St. Mary’s, Isaiah Butler has stayed busy on the athletic field. He has participated in cross country, track and basketball. In cross country, he has received “Most Improved” and “Best Runner” awards.

In the fine arts, Molly has enjoyed playing in several bands, including the marching, pit and pep bands. Also, she sings in the Teen Liturgy Choir and worked as the school musical stage manager.

Artistically, Isaiah stays busy in several bands, choir, the Teen Liturgy Choir and speech. Also, he is currently the vice president of Students Against Destructive Decisions.

In the classroom, Molly has been involved in NHS for several years. Additionally, she stays busy with Spanish group, Homecoming committee, Pro-Life group and mock trial.

Academically, Isaiah has been on the honor roll throughout all of high school. He also enjoys the Knowledge Bowl, Spanish club, mock trial and the science fair.

One volunteer experience Molly recalls with fondness is her participation in the Diocesan Youth Rally Choir. She chose to sing in the group choir during Mass, which she feels set a good example for other students and brightened their day.

This past summer, Isaiah had the opportunity to go to New Orleans as a volunteer. He enjoyed building a Habitat for Humanity house, clearing a park filled with debris and spending time with orphaned children.