From Hi-Lights:
Rising Stars program shines light on students of color

Posted June 22, 2026

NOTE: This excerpt appeared in the most recent of Hi-Lights, the Plymouth High School student newspaper.

Sheboygan Area Black American Community Outreach recently hosted a ceremony and dinner to recognize local Rising Stars, including Plymouth High School students Sophia Okorama, Christan Rakoczy, and Iann Njiojob. Rising Stars is a non-competitive initiative aimed at connecting, recognizing, and celebrating the achievements and contributions of Black students from Sheboygan County in grades 8-12.

By Christian Rakoczy

Recognizing and celebrating students of color not just for their academic achievements, but for their leadership, and impact, in their community is very important. That's exactly what the Rising Stars program is helping make happen. The Rising Stars program recognizes growth, effort, and positive community impact alongside academic achievements.

Teachers nominate students by filling out an online nomination form. The program asks nominators to recognize Black students in grades 8 through 12 who show things like leadership, academic success, and strong community involvement.

PHS Spanish Teacher Laura Koebel shared why she nominated sophomore Sophia Okoroma for this award: “When I first met Sophia, she just stood out as being a really positive and conscientious student,” said Ms. Koebel. “She worked hard for her grades and really cared about them. On the stage and in class, she gives it her all and is a positive force in her group.”

This program values service, extracurriculars, and overall kindness students bring to school and their community. According to edweek.org, 3 out of 4 gifted Black students never get identified for their achievements. This statistic proves why recognition matters so much.

That idea seems to be at the heart of the Rising Stars. It creates space for students who are improving, contributing, and making a difference in ways that aren’t always measured by GPA. For many students, that recognition feels more personal and meaningful.

Sophia, one of this year's Rising Stars, shared what the nomination meant to her. “I feel very honored to know that my hard work and dedication to my academics and to my community doesn’t go unnoticed,” she said. “The fact that my teachers took the time out of their day to nominate me, I feel very grateful and honored.”

Programs like Rising Stars also highlight the importance of representation and inclusion within school. “My organization's goal is to recognize students of color for their achievements and commitment to their community throughout Sheboygan County,” said Director Toni White.

The goal isn’t just to recognize but to unite. “We want to get rid of the divide, like North and South, Sheboygan and Plymouth, so we can bring many different people from different areas together to recognize these amazing kids.”

On May 11, at the BACO Rising Stars ceremony, students were recognized for leadership, talent, and community involvement. Plymouth High School students nominated were Sophia Okorama, Christan Rakoczy, and Iann Njiojob. Photo by Christian Rakoczy