Submitted by Yelm Community Schools
Students enrolled in the Computer Applications course at Yelm High School earned top honors across the state this year. As part of the course, students demonstrate their knowledge of the various Microsoft Office software including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Through the partnership with Washington State, Microsoft provides free Certiport Testing to students. In addition, top qualifiers earn their way to the US National Championships being held in Orlando, Florida this year.
We are proud to share that four Yelm students have earned the opportunity to compete at the national level this summer:
Michael Garcia – 1st place, Word 2010, Fall Qualifier
Hayden Duncan – 2nd place, Word 2010, Fall Qualifier
Ashley Sandquist – 1st place, PowerPoint 2010, Fall Qualifier
Andrew Henderson – 1st place, Word 2010, Spring Qualifier
This year students earned over 75 individual certificates with 3 students earning a Master Certification. Hayden Duncan shared, “Master Certification means I have demonstrated proficient skills in all Microsoft programs, and this will help me in my goal to be an Athletic Trainer.” These achievements build confidence in students and show employers and schools they have met the industry standards. Michael Garcia, who is attending PLU in the fall for Computer Engineering said, “These certificates helped me earn scholarships and is something I can use on my resume.” Aiden McCormick who also earned his Master Certification, emphasized, “It means I have proof of all the hard work using Microsoft.”
Ashley Sanquist and Andrew Henderson will be attending the National Championship this summer. They will have an opportunity to earn up to a $5000 scholarship. “I plan to pursue a career in Technology or Robotics. This experience has shown me I am smart enough, and I can do it,” Ashley said with confidence. Andrew plans to attend SPSCC and then transfer to Denver University to earn a degree in Business Administration. Congratulations to all the students who have taken on this challenge. We wish Ashley and Andrew well as they represent Yelm and Washington State later this month.
