Photo Caption: Ferndale High School Senior Mikey Erickson (holding certificate) with (from l to r) Ferndale Kiwanis President Greg Kendall, brother Daniel Erickson, mom Robin Erickson, and Ferndale Kiwanis Member Roger Quiggle

Whether he's raising turkeys, playing the drums, serving on the LINK Crew or exceling at academics, Ferndale High School Senior Mikey Erickson is a leader. Recently, Ferndale Kiwanis recognized Mikey as Student of the Month for November—honoring his academic achievement, involvement in school activities and making a difference in the community at large.

For the past four years, Mikey has maintained a 4.0 grade point average while taking rigorous Advanced Placement (AP) courses and honors classes, placing him on the school's honor roll each semester. Last year, Mikey took four (AP) exams and received high marks. He was rewarded for his success with the AP Scholar with Honor Achievement Award from the College Board. This award is given to those attaining an average score of at least 3.25 (out of 5) on all AP exams taken. Mikey says, "I'm especially proud of maintaining a 4.0 through my high school career. I push myself to the best of my ability and hold myself to a high standard."

Mikey is a member of the National Honor Society. In being a member, he not only maintains high academic achievement, but is also involved in school activities, leadership and service to others.

"I am very proud of my involvement in the marching band as I have worked hard each year to both have an exceptional playing ability and be in the leadership position I am in now. Being one of the leaders amongst the FHS drumline has been a goal of mine ever since I saw them perform when I was in elementary school," says Mikey. Mikey has been part of the band for the past four years, and as such has reaped the rewards from its successes including being a recipient of the "Best Percussion" Award at the state competition during his freshman year. This year, he is the leader of the tenor drum section. As a member of the band, Mikey also participates in the Pit Orchestra supporting musical performances for the theater arts program.

Mikey is always looking to perform service for the betterment of his school. In his junior and sophomore years, he helped lead the Eagle Mentors volunteer group. As a mentor, he helped students who were struggling in core classes such as math, science and language arts. He credits this group with teaching him how to be a better friend and leader to those in need. Also in his junior year as a member of the Link Crew, he mentored 10 freshmen students—aiding them with their academics, answering their questions about high school and giving them a firm foundation of knowledge during their first year of high school.

Mikey is a member of the Ferndale High Varsity Golf Team. Last season, he was honored with the award for "Most Improved Golfer." He played third position last year and qualified for competition at districts. He'll be joining the team again this year.

In his "off hours" from school, Mikey exhibits even more leadership by mentoring youth in animal husbandry, tutoring students in academics, helping victims of floods, preparing meals for those in need and making contributions to the food bank. "It's always the highlight of my day when I know I am helping someone out," says Mikey.

When asked "what is the most important issue facing our community," Mikey says, "For Ferndale High School, it's the number of distractions involved with the youth and their school careers. There are many distractions which cause kids to struggle in school and prevent their potential from being maximized. From cell phone use during class to substance abuse, students disregard regulations. The core issue resides with the amount of respect students have for the teachers, the school, and for themselves." Mikey sees as a fix to this issue an increase in support for families; both at school and at home, and holding students accountable for their behaviors.

Mikey was fortunate to have parents who supported and guided him in his many endeavors. He credits his mom, Robin, as the most influential person in his life. He says, "My mom has always been a strong supporter. She has sparked my interest in poultry and fishing. Academically, my mom has always encouraged me to do my best and to try above all else. My mom has taught me how to be an individual who stands out. She taught me to stick up for myself and not be overly influenced by pressure. She taught me to be brave in both taking risks and leading others. She made me who I am today. For all these things, I owe her my sincerest gratitude."

Following graduation from high school next spring, Mikey plans to follow in the footsteps of his two brothers and attend Gonzaga University to study for and eventually become an engineer. He sees being an engineer as the perfect career opportunity when he can use his natural creativity and ingenuity to help others.

Congratulations, Mikey! We are proud of you and your accomplishments. Thank you for giving back to your community. #FerndalePride

Thank you to Ferndale Kiwanis for recognizing the accomplishments of our outstanding students! We appreciate your support.