The Maine Township High School District 207 Board of Education honored three students in the area of academic achievement naming them “207’s Best” at a recent meeting. Lucas Runtz from Maine South was honored for his earnestness, kindness and drive.
The following information was written about Lucas Runtz as a part of the nomination by Maine South principal Dr. Antwan Babakhani.
LUCAS RUNTZ, MAINE SOUTH
It is my privilege to introduce Maine South senior Lucas Runtz for September’s D207’s Best recognition for Academic Achievement. When our counselors considered students for this recognition, they certainly looked at academic measures such as GPA and ACT performance. But when Lucas’s name came forward, the conversation quickly moved beyond numbers. They talked about his integrity, his work ethic, and the authenticity with which he has approached his high school experience. After spending time with Lucas, I understand exactly why.
I had a chance to interview Lucas with his school counselor, Mr. Milano. While we dined over Jimmy Johns (I know, we’re fancy), Lucas described himself as an earnest person, and as we talked, that word continued to resonate. He reflected openly on how much he has grown since arriving at Maine South. As a freshman, Lucas was more timid and reserved and sometimes hesitant to put himself out there. Over the past several years, he has learned to advocate for himself, ask for help when he needs it, and lean on the teachers, friends, and family who have supported him. What struck me was how comfortably Lucas acknowledged that he did not arrive at these realizations overnight. His growth has come through experience, reflection, and a willingness to change. There is a self-awareness in Lucas that allows him to recognize where he has been while continuing to think intentionally about the person he wants to become. What impressed me most, however, was how Lucas talked about his relationships with others. He recognizes how easy it can be in a competitive high school environment to compare yourself to others or feel the need to one-up those around you. Lucas has intentionally moved in another direction. He tries to make others feel good about themselves while also learning to extend that same kindness and grace to himself. That kind of perspective and maturity says as much about Lucas as any academic accomplishment.
Academically, Lucas has continued to challenge himself. His experiences in mathematics and computer science have strengthened his interest in logic and problem solving and have inspired him to pursue computer engineering after high school. He specifically credits Ms. McAleer, Ms. Muja, Ms. Knight, Mr. Guccione, Ms. Gianosa, and his counselor, Mr. Milano, as people who have helped shape his Maine South experience. Lucas also wanted me to share a message with his mom, Lori, his dad, Tom, and his younger brother: “Thank you for helping me become the person I am today.” While we recognize Lucas for Academic Achievement, what distinguishes him extends well beyond his transcript. Earnest, driven, kind, and grounded, Lucas Runtz represents the kind of achievement and character we are proud to celebrate as D207’s Best.