A big congratulations to Tore James, our January Senior of the Month, from Lankenau Environmental Science Magnet High School, whose drive and positive mindset are already taking him to exciting places!

Tore didn’t exactly know what he was getting when he first chose an environmental magnet high school but in retrospect is exceedingly grateful for the experience and opportunities he’s gotten there. He speaks warmly about the family-like environment and effuses how the people there brought opportunities his way that might not have happened otherwise. He’s very interested in environmental topics but he tends to be interested and get immersed in whatever is in front of him.

Tore tutored 11th graders in geometry with Mr. Jon Hoffmeier, because he was in an advanced class and excelled at math. His math skills have led to other roles as well: he explains that he’s basically the class Treasurer, helping organize and run a number of events focused on raising money for the senior class prom and other activities.

His nominators continue to list the many activities Tore juggles, showing a breadth of skills and strengths well beyond his studies. “Tore participated in Peer Group Counseling, a year-long advisory-based mentoring of 9th graders, in 11th grade. He’s also a member of MANRRS (Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences), and in that role has traveled across the country to represent urban agriculture and our school. He’s been great at networking with outside adults during the activities provided by MANRRS, our AFNR CTE, PGC and the PHS. All this, while Tore also works at AutoZone to earn money for senior activities. He is really a powerhouse and an example to other students.”

He’s also the engineer on their school’s entry in the Philadelphia Flower Show. His nominator says, “Because Tore is interested in sustainable engineering, his participation in building our school’s exhibit for the Flower Show will prepare him for his career. In his engineering role, some of his tasks include co-designing the infrastructure of the booth, choosing materials with a strong consideration to their weight, and organizing the transportation of both structure and content of the booth. To the extent possible, the team is using reclaimed materials and saving energy with a lightweight, low-energy-use design.” He’s particularly excited about an upcoming paid internship opportunity his principal helped him connect with, at Bentley Systems, an environmental solutions company based in Philadelphia.

How did he choose engineering? “Growing up I was always into technology and I thought I’d focus on computer engineering. Then our school brought in alumni from Pennsylvania State University to speak about their work, designing and building buildings and flying all around the country, and that was inspiring. When I looked into it, I came to realize civil engineering included the computer work I loved and it was like a lightbulb went off. I knew I wanted to be a civil engineer.”

At the time of our interview he’d applied to 12 colleges and universities, and each one that he’d heard from, he had gotten accepted into! He chose each of them based on their engineering programs primarily, combined with their indoor and outdoor track and field opportunities. “My mom always told me you can go further with a business career than a sports career which is riskier and shorter.” He has a scout manager helping advise him, looking for the best offers, and feels comfortable with the idea of juggling it all. His top choices include University of Houston, University of Kentucky and West Virginia University.

How does he feel about going far from home? “Family is so important but I’ve traveled, going to camps and on trips. Leaving home will be a toll but I’m comfortable with it. Once I get adapted to my environment I’ll be fine.”

We asked Tore our favorite list of questions: 

1. Why do you think you were nominated as Senior of the Month? 

I believe I was nominated because of the things I contribute not only to my school but as a representative of the Philadelphia School District. I’m not shy about talking to other adults and I’m always willing to shoot for the highest results – I don’t settle for less. I put my all into everything. I believe if you put your all into it, nothing can stop you.

And I manage my time very wisely balancing school and personal life, focusing on a positive mindset and making sure I’m doing my best wherever I am – in school, in sports, and at home.

2. Explain your relationship to your nominators and their role in your experience at your school. 

I know of at least three people here who nominated me. One is my principal Ms. McCatamney – her drive on behalf of her students is amazing. She’s always trying to help students set up for their future. And Ms. Kelly – she does everything here – she used to be my English teacher, and she’s been someone I can talk to if I need advice. Mr. Hoffmeier, who’s more on the math and sports side, I really connect with and appreciate because he also wants everyone at our school to thrive and he supports helping connect people with students to help them get further with their education or skills.

His nominators say, “One thing that Tore has reminded us of is that children grow mentally and emotionally. Tore always earned excellent grades but this year adults were struck by the personality development in him. He is now extra helpful, kind, and supportive of younger kids. We rely on him to give tours to prospective 8th graders, because he can talk to anyone and makes the visiting families laugh and feel at home. The senior sponsor uses Tore in a dozen roles, from counting bake sale money to tutoring to mentoring younger students. Tore says his development is due to his new baby sister, who needs the best role model possible. We believe that the numerous opportunities the school has provided him are also educational and developmental.”

3. What is one thing you’d like to share about yourself that most people don’t know about you? 

Some people may not believe this, because on the one hand I joke around a lot and on the other hand I can be serious but I really don’t like to see people around me be down, or having a bad day. I’ll check in on people and really try to lift them up. I’m a pretty caring person under it all.

4. What do you enjoy most when you are not at school? 

I like to practice for track and get my time down. I also love to listen to music. And sometimes naps are needed! I also really love to spend time with my baby sister; she’s one year old now and she’ll just be two when I leave the house for a few years. So I want to spend time with her when I can.

5. What is the best thing about attending school at Lankenau? 

The people. All the teachers care for each student as if they’re their own. It’s a small school, with a smaller teacher to student ratio. My sponsor, Dr. Buckner is like a mother to me, checking on him all the time, making sure I’m keeping my head up. Lankenau is great for environmentally-focused students but anybody could thrive here.

6. What is one thing that the School District could do to improve our service to students? 

Listen to the students more. When there are problems in the school district, sometimes it feels like the parents are asked to intervene but I think the students are the ones experiencing the environment, what’s working and what’s not working. The feedback should come from the kids, and then the District should listen.

Tore we are so excited for you – best of luck in the college and career of your dreams!