Aberdeen student recognized for West Point appointment

The Aberdeen School Board on Dec. 8 recognized senior Esten for receiving a primary appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

Esten told the board he had wanted to attend West Point “since probably middle school,” and described an application process that evaluates academics, athletics and leadership. He said he interviewed with Senator Mike Rounds’ office and was selected for a primary appointment, a slot the senator’s staff can nominate directly.

Why it matters: Board members and coaches framed the appointment as a reflection of sustained academic and extracurricular effort within Aberdeen School District 06-1. The recognition highlighted the role that counselors, coaches and teachers played in providing recommendation letters and interview preparation.

Esten thanked teachers, counselors and coaches for their support and credited practical leadership experiences — including organizing a car wash to raise money for local veterans — as part of what appealed to academy reviewers. The board offered personal congratulations and brief anecdotes about his leadership in athletics and school life.

The board’s recognition was part of the meeting’s “good news” segment; no formal action was required.