ARTHUR – Wellington Heights Secondary School graduate Conner Schmidt has been rewarded for his excellence in academics, athletics and community service.
Schmidt, 18, was one of eight recipients selected for the Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) and Dairy Farmers of Ontario bursary program. It recognizes students across the province who have made positive impacts in their communities and schools.
“I tried to join as many sports teams as I could – volleyball, hockey, lacrosse, badminton,” Schmidt told the Community News.
He was also highly involved in his school’s student and athletic councils, as well as a peer helper for their Special Olympics.
As for the application process, Schmidt couldn’t hold back. He had to write a one-page letter on why he felt he was most deserving.
He had trouble with this as he’s “never been one to brag.”
The application needed all experience noted, including proof of academic records and supporting letters from teachers and coaches – past and present.
“I always try to stay humble about my accomplishments but when applying for these bursaries, you have to separate yourself from the other academics,” Schmidt said.
Outside of school, he shared his passion for hockey through teaching young players. He has coached lacrosse teams and the younger teams within Arthur Minor Hockey.
But it wasn’t until he got offered a job at a day camp that he truly discovered his love for teaching.
Since then, his sights have been set on becoming a history or gym teacher.
“Every athletic kid wants to become a gym teacher at some point in their lives,” Schmidt said.
As he heads to Lakehead University to major in history, he keeps a previous teacher in mind.
“My history teacher fostered my love for history; he had a big influence on me,” Schmidt added.
Schmidt has gained teaching experience through sports and through helping local public schools.
Between supervising recess times and the occasional supply teaching job, he is well on his way to fulfilling his goals.
At the end of his six-year program, Schmidt will be able to teach grades seven to 12.
Hockey coach Shawn Livingston has nothing but high praise for Schmidt.
“As a young adult his passion to be involved with the community and grow the community is outstanding in a person of his age,” Livingston told Community News.
Livingston said he has known Schmidt since Schmidt was five years old, as his son is Schmidt’s best friend.
“His ability to have a vision of the future, whether it’s in school projects, friendships, sports teams, or even his own, he’s got a very clear vision of what he wants to accomplish,” added Livingston.
“I’m happy for him, he deserves it.”
