ROCHELLE — Rochelle Township High School recently announced the Critical Thinking Award recipients for January/February and March 2024. This recognition, sponsored by the RTHS Class of 1961 and Mr. Chuck Stocking, seeks to identify those students who demonstrate creative thinking, collaboration, leadership and good citizenship. They are not just a positive influence at RTHS but also in the greater Rochelle community. Students are nominated for the Critical Thinking Award on a monthly basis. Nominations are solicited through peers, faculty, staff and administration. The monthly award consists of $50 worth of Rochelle Hub gear and an equal donation to a charitable organization of the nominee’s choice. 

RTHS’s March winner is Manny Cruz. Manny has a love of science and math. He has pushed himself in all of his classes during high school, and he is reported by his teachers to be engaged and self-reflective in the classroom. He has an ability to recognize when he needs to change direction and will follow through, even if that means pushing himself past his comfort zone. Teachers and staff also note that Manny is a kind and thoughtful individual. A family history of diabetes drives his desire to become a doctor, and helping others is a strong component of his personality. Manny enjoys getting involved in a variety of activities and cites his father as his role model of both a strong work ethic and involved parent. Manny has chosen the Hub City Senior Center as his charity.

Alexander McBride is the Critical Thinking Award winner for January/February. Alex is a member of the class of 2024 and looks forward to continuing his education at the University of Mississippi. He plans on studying secondary education and teaching math in the future. Alex’s hard work and dedication is recognized by the staff of RTHS. He is someone who places importance on doing his best and will work hard in order to achieve his goals. He goes above and beyond in order to enhance his own knowledge and improve himself.  Although he has an adventurous spirit and looks forward to new experiences in Mississippi, family is very important to Alex. He counts his mother as both a role model and his biggest fan.  Alex will be donating his monetary portion of the award to HOPE of Ogle County.