Noonan Academy Standout Student of the Week

Carina Diorio is a 6th grader at Noonan Elementary Academy in Mokena and has been selected by her teacher, Mr. Evers, as this week's Standout Student. Congratulations Carina and to the Diorio family.

What is one essential you must have when studying?

When I am studying, I need a very sharp pencil.

What do you like to do when not in school or studying?

When I am not in school or studying, I like to play basketball, volleyball, cheerleading, or hanging out with my friends.

What is your dream job?

My dream is to be famous or to be a motivational speaker. I would like to be a motivational speaker, because I am very positive.

What are some of your most played songs on your iPod?

Some of my most played songs are songs by Ariana Grande, or songs from Teen Beach movie, and Austin and Ally.

What is one thing people don't know about you?

One thing people don’t know about me is that the back of my head is shaved. I get some pretty cool designs back there. I sometimes even dye it.

Whom do you look up to and why?

I look up to our founder, Mrs. Noonan. She passed away a year ago. You could definitely feel God’s presence in the room when she was here.

What do you keep under your bed?

I hide candy wrappers and snacks under my bed.

Who is your favorite teacher and why?

My favorite teachers is Mrs. Gualandri, she teaches religion very well. Mrs. Gualandri is very patient and kind.

What is your favorite class and why?

My favorite class is Latin, because we get to conjugate verbs. My favorite word in Latin is December, because I like the way it sounds.

What's one thing that stands out about your school?

Something that stands out about Noonan Academy is out Principal, Mr. Dunn. He tries so hard to make sure that we are healthy and following the state guidelines during COVID-19.

What extracurricular(s) do you wish your school had?

I wish we had cheerleading. I do cheer for Homer Stallions, in addition to playing both basketball and volleyball.

What's your morning routine?

I wake up around 6:30am. Get dressed, brush teeth, do my hair. Then I eat breakfast, take my vitamin, grab my mask, and then head to Noonan Academy.

If you could change one thing about school what would it be?

If I could change one thing I would make our school day shorter.

What's your favorite thing to eat in the cafeteria?

We bring our own lunches to school. In my lunch I have some grapes, chips, raisins, and a cheese stick.

What's your best memory from school?

My favorite memory from school is our pep rallies; they are always so fun and surprising.

Noonan Elementary Academy is an independent Catholic school in Mokena serving preschool through 8th grade. Noonan provides its students with a rigorous and innovative educational program that is academically challenging and personally supportive. Noonan is committed to developing the full potential of each student by fostering intellectual development, strong character formation, and spiritual growth. Scholarships are available; please contact Mr. Dunn, Principal of Noonan Elementary Academy, for more information or visit their website at www.noonanacademy.org