At the top: Valedictorian Amanda Thiele, Leopold High School

Parents: Ernie and Debbie Thiele

What is your most notable academic achievement? My perfect GPA, 11.0

What is your favorite school activity and why? Beta Club because I get to be part of a group and help people.

What is your favorite high school memory? When Mrs. Nenninger got Heartland's Best Teacher and KFVS12 came to our classroom.

Describe your favorite cafeteria food: Pizza dippers are doughy, warm and really cheesy and go great with hot marinara sauce.

What's your school mascot? Wildcat

If you could have a personal mascot, what would it be? A dove

Complete this sentence: Without me, my teachers are likely to ... be a bit less organized.

Who is your favorite teacher and how did she inspire you to learn? Mrs. Nenninger is my favorite teacher. She is so nice and has such a strong faith and belief in education that it's hard not to learn. She has done so much for our school and does so much for her students.

Where do you plan to go to college and what will you study? Southeast Missouri State University; chemistry

What is the biggest challenge facing your generation? Laziness

How do you hope to address it? I will encourage hard work by being hard-working myself. I will lead by example.

Sum up your high school experience in six words: Challenging, unforgettable, exciting, surprising, entertaining, happy