Lansing USD 469 is proud to recognize Lansing Middle School eighth grader Aliya Martinez as the November 2026 Student of the Month. Aliya was honored at the November 9 Board of Education meeting, where LMS Principal Brooks Jenkins highlighted her leadership, kindness, and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
During her seventh-grade year, Aliya came up with an idea to raise money for an organization that supports children who have experienced abuse and other difficult circumstances. She approached LMS counselor Becky Wecas, who helped connect her with local organizations that could benefit from her efforts.
From there, Aliya took the initiative to turn her idea into action.
Working on her own time, Aliya collected donations and assembled three silent auction baskets to raise money for the Children's Advocacy Center in Leavenworth. She attended after-school events to support her fundraiser and completed the project in August, raising $170 for the organization.
Aliya's efforts didn't stop there.
She is already planning another project to collect teddy bears for the Children's Advocacy Center. The stuffed animals will provide comfort to children visiting the center for interviews or entering foster care. Aliya also took time outside of school to tour the center and learn more about the important work it does.
Her commitment to helping others extends into Lansing Middle School as well. Aliya has participated in Student Council and currently serves on Peer Leadership, where she hopes to make a positive difference in her school community.
According to Mrs. Wecas, Aliya is recognized by her peers as a kind and dependable friend and is viewed as a leader within her grade level.
"Aliya is a student that goes above and beyond and she is a great asset to Lansing Middle School and the greater community!" Mrs. Wecas shared.
Congratulations, Aliya, on this well-deserved recognition! Your compassion, initiative, and willingness to help others are wonderful examples of what it means to be a Lansing Lion.
