Celebrating Determination: Jordanis Balladares Gonzalez Named Jegna Klub Student of the Week

Moses Wyatt
8 minutes ago
4 min read

We proudly honor Jordanis Balladares Gonzalez, a Central Middle School (KCKPS) student, as this week’s J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week Award recipient. Surrounded by peers, educators, and community partners, Jordanis received well-deserved recognition for his resilience, leadership, and commitment to growth.

Created to celebrate students who embody the values of Justice, Empowerment, Growth, Nurturing, and Advocacy, the J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week Award uplifts young people excelling academically and behaviorally, while serving as role models in their schools. Spotlighted weekly, locally and globally, through JEGNAFEST Worldwide Radio—the Midwest’s #1 Teen Show syndicated on 152 stations worldwide, with an audience of over 8 million monthly listeners.

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A Story of Perseverance and Leadership

Jordanis was nominated by his teacher, Josephine Reno, who praised his determination as a language learner and his willingness to mentor classmates. “Jordanis may be soft-spoken, but his actions speak volumes,” Reno shared. “He doesn’t let language challenges hold him back. Instead, he advocates for himself and others, showing leadership and compassion.”

This spirit of advocacy and peer support perfectly reflects the mission of the Jegna Klub.

Principal Yolonda Thompson: Recognition That Resonates

For Central Middle School Principal Yolonda Thompson, the award ceremony was more than just a presentation.

“I believe it went well. After students were able to hear and understand what was going on in their language, they became more excited,” she said.

She added that the recognition not only impacted Jordanis but also inspired other students and teachers:

“Recognition lets students know they are seen and that they matter. A student who is recognized is more willing to buy into academic and behavior goals and other school requirements.”

Her words highlighted how recognition strengthens the school community, motivating students to achieve more.

A Community Celebration

The award ceremony featured Judge Tony Martinez alongside Captain Navarro of the KCKPD, who underscored the importance of representation.

“In a classroom that was nearly 98% Hispanic, students seeing us in leadership roles reinforces that ‘if they can see us, they can be us — with an education.’”

Judge Martinez also emphasized that Jordanis’s determination as a Spanish speaker and achiever proves that language barriers cannot stop success.

Community leaders like Wyandotte County District 1 Commissioner Candidate Jermaine Howard echoed the importance of this recognition:

“It’s good to see older students excited for their peers. Every child needs to know we care.”

“This type of recognition is important due to the fact that every child needs to know we care.“ —Jermaine Howard

Beyond the Award: Tools for the Future

Jordanis received more than applause — he was gifted tools to build lifelong success. Thanks to community partners, he earned:

These prizes reinforce the Jegna Klub’s commitment to economic empowerment and financial literacy for both students and the adults who support them.

Teacher and Mentor Impact

Teacher Josephine Reno, who nominated Jordanis, described his reaction with pride:

“The positive part is seeing my student with a HUGE smile and surprise on his face. He told me it felt like ‘his birthday!’ This program truly brings out the positive in our youth.”

Her reflections highlight the long-term impact of recognizing students who often go unnoticed.

Coach Keyz: Recognition Without Barriers

Student of the Week Coordinator Keyron “Coach Keyz” emphasized the importance of recognizing all students, regardless of language or background.

“A positive note is that even though there was a language barrier, that didn’t stop this young scholar from getting his proper recognition.”

How to Nominate a Student

Any non family school staff or community member are encouraged to lift up students like Jordanis. Nominations for the J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week Award can be submitted online by going to the Jegna Klub website home page (https://www.thejegnaklub.org/) click nominate student of the week, fill out form and submit by 3:00 pm every Friday.

Powered by Community #TogetherWeStand

This award is made possible through community partnerships with:

A Final Word

Principal Thompson’s reflection may best capture the heart of the program:

“Teachers notice the positive reactions from students and other teachers and now more are wanting and willing to nominate students. This type of recognition lets them know they matter — and when students know they matter, they rise.”

Congratulations again to Jordanis Balladares Gonzalez, this week’s J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week Award Winner. His perseverance, kindness, and leadership light the way for others at Central Middle School and beyond.