Triple "A" Award winners Isaac Hays and Rachel Jensen.
December 18, 2024 — Mound Westonka High School has chosen seniors Isaac Hays and Rachel Jensen to represent the school at the regional Triple 'A' Awards banquet. A recognition ceremony for the state-wide winners will be held in March. Sponsored by the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL), the Triple 'A' Award—Academics, Arts and Athletics—is a unique recognition program designed exclusively for Minnesota high school seniors who have excelled in the classroom, on the athletic field and in the fine arts.
“Rachel and Isaac are exceptional students who exemplify the Triple 'A' criteria,” said Westonka Activities Director Jeff Peterson. “They are both involved in athletics at a high level, academically challenge themselves and excel, and are involved in fine arts activities. Our committee had an incredible pool of students to review, but Isaac and Rachel were at the top of the list.”
A three-sport athlete, Isaac Hays competes on the cross-country, Nordic skiing, and track and field teams. He has been a captain of all three sports and has received All-Conference recognition in both cross-country and Nordic skiing. He has also received Hardest Worker, Rookie of the Year, MVP, and Commitment to Excellence honors. Hays was a new student to MWHS as a ninth grader, but his sports teams quickly became like a second family, and he instantly felt at home.
Hays maintains a 4.0 GPA with a rigorous course load, including multiple AP courses. He is also participating in College in School concurrent enrollment. Hays says difficult science courses have solidified his inclination towards physical therapy as his college major.
Hays is a four-year percussion player in the band. He has participated in several large group contests and is a two-year section leader. He was introduced to the school pit orchestra and has enjoyed the unique experience of playing Broadway music and working with a cast.
“My involvement in the arts, athletics, and academics has helped to develop my core characteristics while also developing my identity beyond my physical performance and achievements,” said Hays. Even when an injury prevented his involvement in many of his activities, he devoted himself to encouraging his teammates and staying connected to the groups he cherished.
“My involvement is important to me, and I have learned to appreciate every moment,” Hays said. “More importantly though, I have determined the cruciality of the connections I make that I can lean on for support in heavy times and push my growth during exceptional times.”
Teacher and coach Wendy Richards wrote a letter of recommendation for Hays. “Isaac is an incredible leader and role model," Richards wrote. "He shows this in the classroom and his athletics through his effort, determination, and sincere care for his teammates. He is a quiet leader; one who is always there to cheer on his teammates and classmates, who is incredibly dependable and sincere, and who wants the best for everyone he encounters."
“Each year, Isaac continues to impress me with his ability to bring others alongside him and help them feel they have a place that is safe and supportive, and that will encourage them to be the best version of themselves, with him acting as a leader,” Richards added.
Hays plans to pursue a degree in pre-physical therapy, although he is undecided about his college. He plans to participate in cross-country, Nordic skiing, and percussion. Isaac is the son of Dan Hays and Jenny Hays of Minnetrista.
Rachel Jensen has taken every opportunity to take the most advanced courses available at MWHS, including AP courses and multiple Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) courses. An AP Scholar, Jensen maintains a 4.0 GPA. Her involvement in the National Honor Society and Link Crew reflects her commitment to service.
A two-sport athlete, Jensen competes on the soccer and lacrosse teams, earning the Scholar Athlete Award, MVP, and All-Conference honors in soccer. She was named Academic All-State and All-Conference Honorable Mention in lacrosse and was named a captain for the upcoming season. In addition, Jensen is a manager for the girls hockey team. Her sports involvement has taught her how to push her limits and persevere, along with the fundamental aspects of teamwork and motivation within a group.
As co-founder and vice president of Art Club, Jensen has demonstrated initiative and organizational skills. She earned Superior ratings in two consecutive years at the MSHSL Visual Arts Festival, which attests to her immense artistic talent.
“Being involved with the arts, academics, and athletics has left me with experiences that shape who I am today ... I have become an ambitious and determined individual,” said Jensen. After not being named team captain in soccer, Jensen vowed to work even harder in both of her sports, eventually receiving numerous awards.
“Welcoming failure has been the most rewarding thing I could have done for myself,” said Jensen. “By practicing perseverance throughout my years in the arts, athletics, and academics, I am grateful I had the opportunity to cultivate this quality in high school.
In a letter of recommendation, art teacher Erica Boyles wrote:
“Rachel is not just a high achiever; she is a role model for her peers. Her ability to balance multiple commitments while maintaining academic excellence is commendable. She approaches challenges with a positive attitude and consistently strives for personal growth.”
Jensen plans to attend the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities to study computer science and mathematics. She plans to participate in intramural art and sports activities. Rachel is the daughter of Brian Jensen of Minnetrista.
About the Triple 'A' Award
Triple “A” Award recipients are selected through a multi-level process that involves member schools of the MSHSL, the League’s administrative regions, and a special committee of educators, business leaders and members of the fine arts and athletics communities. Every member school of the League is invited to nominate one girl and one boy for the Triple “A” Award. Nominees must be seniors in high school, have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, participate in MSHSL fine arts and/or athletic activities, and comply with the MSHSL Student Code of Conduct.
