Joliet Catholic Academy President/Principal Dr. Jeffrey Budz is pleased to announce the April Students of the Month: Mary Pietras (Kiwanis Club), Tyler Surin (Rotary Club) and Lauren Cardwell (Lions Club).   JCA is proud of the success these students have exhibited both in the classroom and out in the community.

Mary Pietras, daughter of Kevin and Nicole Pietras of Plainfield, is a graduate of St. Mary Immaculate Grade School. Mary is a member of the National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, and A-Honor Roll.  She was the National Premier League Northern Illinois All Conference Goalkeeper, and she was an Illinois Premiere Primetime Player of the Week.   Mary is involved with Habitat for Humanity, Key Club, the JCA Hillzone, Student Council, Student Ambassadors, Varsity Soccer, Varsity Basketball, and Varsity Tennis.  Away from school, Mary is a certified referee, church lector and Eucharistic minister.  Mary is committed to continuing her soccer career at Augustana College where she will major in Graphic Design and Marketing. 

Tyler Surin, son of Jack and Nancy Surin from Plainfield, is a graduate of Drauden Point Middle School.  Tyler is recognized as a Top 25 student, is a member of the National Honor Society, and excels in the field of Math, his favorite subject.  He is involved with the Key Club, where he has logged countless service hours and he is an active leader of the JCA Hillzone.  Tyler plans to continue his successful basketball career at North Central College, where he plans to major in business.  Away from JCA, Tyler works at his father’s business.    

Lauren Cardwell, daughter of Patrick and Meghan Cardwell of Joliet, is a graduate of The Cathedral of St. Raymond Grade School. She is a member of the National Honors Society, National English Honors Society, and Mu Alpha Theta.   Lauren is a member of the Volleyball Team, where she received the Angel of Year award, and she was appointed a captain.  She also is a member of Habitat for Humanity, Student Council, Key Club and is a Hillzone leader.  Lauren plans to continue her Volleyball career at Northern Michigan University where she received a scholarship to play and furthermore, she wants to coach one day and inspire future players like her coaches inspire her.