Saratoga Patch Whiz Kid of the Week—Ingrid Zhou

Ingrid Zhou, ninth-grader at Saratoga High School

Accomplishments:

• Participates in SHS' music program
• Member of SHS' Color Guard
• Member of SHS' cross country team
• Takes French classes

Key to Awesomeness:

Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District Superintendent Bob Mistele said Ingrid's classmates and teammates notice the extra effort and care she puts into her classes and programs. "While others are often in a rush to depart at the end of rehearsals or performances, Ingrid can be seen putting away the tarps or cleaning up after others. She always stays the extra few minutes to help out," he said.

One of her senior classmates said: "Ingrid is a very nice person. She is a perfect example of what good character looks like."

Her teachers agree. Mr. Jonathan Pwu stated: "Ingrid is a student who faces each task with enthusiasm, details and good work ethic. In addition, Ingrid is not afraid to try new things and if something piques her interest, Ingrid will take the initiative to make it happen. An example of this is her interest in Color Guard. Ingrid has no dance experience, but when she saw the Color Guard perform at a marching band competition, she inquired with her peers and myself about participating in Winger Guard and is the first one to sign up on the list."

Ms. Laura Lizundia added: "Ingrid is one of those all around good kids who's already immersed herself in a variety of things at SHS. She's a strong French student and valuable group members in class.

"We, at SHS, are happy to recognize Ingrid for making immediate and valuable contributions of her time and talents to our school. She upholds the values of serve above self, reliability, kindness and positive thinking. We are lucky that she will be with us for a few more years."