March students of month named

Madeline Hoogstraten and Thomas Rutledge were named Carrollton High School students of the month for March.

Hoogstraten is the daughter of Amy Hoogstraten of Carrollton.

She is a member of the marching, concert and jazz bands; CHS (Caring Helping Sharing) Club, drama club, ladies ensemble and chamber chorus and National Honor Society.

She enjoys creative writing and playing video games.

She plans to attend Carnegie Mellon University to study writing for television and film.

What teacher, coach, family member or special friend has influenced her and why?

“The late Jared DeGarmo influenced me by being a mentor for me throughout high school and in life. He was my biggest supporter and best friend and was a positive influence on me and changed me forever,” Hoogstraten said. “Because of him, I’m so much more confident and strong, and I believe in myself more and more every day.”

What advice does she give for success in life? “Working hard and standing up for yourself will take you far in life.”

Rutledge is the son of Bert and Julie Rutledge of Carrollton. He has two brothers, Connor, 19, and Troy, 12, and a sister, Meagan, 15.

He is a member of the cross country and track teams and band at school. He is a member of the Carroll County 4-H program, youth group and tae kwon do.

He enjoys reading, writing, photography and biking.

He plans to attend Kent State University and own a photography business in the future.

What teacher, coach, family member or special friend has influenced him and why?

“Pam Dye was my tutor for many years. She taught me to be less anxious about my school work,” he explained. “Using a lot of patience, she influenced me to be more hard working.”

What is his advice for success in life? “One positive in the morning can change your whole day.”