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Thornton student Jaden Riotti honored as February student of the month
Summary
Thornton High School senior Jaden Riotti was recognized as the district’s February Student of the Month for resilience and self‑advocacy; teacher Andy Solomon and Principal Dr. Maranco introduced Riotti, who shared his story of switching between in‑person and online learning and graduating on time with staff and family support.
Thornton High School senior Jaden Riotti was recognized as Jefferson Union’s February Student of the Month during the board’s recognitions segment.
Dr. Maranco, Thornton’s principal, introduced Jaden and praised his determination. Andy Solomon, Jaden’s homeroom teacher, told the board he has taught Jaden for two years and called him “resilient, kind, and an advocate for himself,” adding that Jaden “rises above the noise” and “focuses on what’s important.”
Jaden addressed the board and described his path: he said his freshman year followed the return from COVID with active extracurricular involvement but that by sophomore year he lost focus and fell behind; he moved to online classes during his junior year to recover credits and then returned to in‑person instruction as a motivated senior. Jaden credited family and school staff support for helping him graduate on time and described resilience and self‑advocacy as key lessons from his journey.
Student board trustees and several board members offered congratulations. Student Trustee Natalia said she admired Jaden’s persistence and noted students need not be at their best every day to be recognized. Board members praised his courage and introspection and highlighted the school’s role in supporting students who need alternative pathways.
A certificate was presented and the group took photos. The recognition was part of the board’s regular recognitions and no action was required.
