Joliet Catholic Academy President/Principal Dr. Jeffrey Budz is pleased to announce the December Students of the Month: Xander Keating (Kiwanis Club), Nora Buss (Rotary Club) and Brooke Simon-Chenelle (Lions Club). JCA is proud of the success these students have exhibited in both the classroom and in the community.

Xander Keating, son of Sally and Brian Keating of Plainfield, is a graduate of St. Mary Immaculate Grade School. Xander is a member of the National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. Xander is a member of the Robotics Club, Tech Club, and Varsity Tennis team. Outside of his school responsibilities, Xander enjoys practicing photography, meditating on nature walks, and playing card games with his family. Xander plans to study electrical engineering in college and looks forward to having a career in that field.

Nora Buss, daughter of Bryan and Jennifer Buss of Plainfield, is a graduate of St. Raymond Grade School. She is a member of the National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. Nora is active in the Student Council where she serves as Class President, Habitat for Humanity where she serves as Vice President, and is the Vice President of National Honor Society. She is also a member of Key Club, Student Ambassadors, Pickleball Club, Big Buddies / Little Buddies, and is a Eucharistic Minister. Nora is the Varsity Dance Captain and has received All-American Dancer and All-Conference Dancer awards. Nora is busy outside of her school duties as a babysitter and also works at The Jacob Henry Mansion and Warehouse 109. Nora is undecided on where she would like to attend college but plans to study criminology or business and be on the dance team.

Brooke Simon-Chenelle, daughter of Kelly Simon of Shorewood, is a graduate of Holy Family Grade School. Brooke is a member of the National Honor Society, National English Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta. Brooke is an AAU Academic All-American and has also received Academic All-State recognition. Her favorite subjects are English and statistics. She is a member of the Varsity Volleyball team and is active in the Gardening Club. In Brooke’s spare time, she plays for Club 1 Volleyball and participates in a book club. She also enjoys reading, watching sports, cooking, and baking. Brooke is currently considering her future college and career plans.