Ferndale High School senior Madisyn Butenschoen is a student leader at FHS in many regards, but she’s particularly proud of leading the school’s freshman orientation program for the past three years. She began taking this event on her sophomore year and has organized campus tours, assemblies, and fun lunch events for incoming ninth graders ever since.

“We created a whole new tour, because as a freshman, the scariest part is not knowing where you’re going,” Madisyn said. “I wanted to make sure the freshmen felt comfortable.”

It makes sense that Madisyn helps ninth graders find their place at FHS, as she believes that creating a sense of belonging, both in her school and in Ferndale, is important.

“I believe our community is unique because of our diversity,” she said. “One (thing) we are doing here at the high school to create that sense of belonging is highlighting and honoring our variety of clubs, activities and families within FHS at every assembly!”

Madisyn, who earns a 3.847 grade point average, has been a member of FHS’ leadership class for three years, and currently serves as the treasurer for both ASB and Honors Society.

Madisyn is also a decorated multi-sport athlete for the Golden Eagles, playing volleyball and basketball. She’s currently the volleyball team’s senior captain, and won the Sportsmanship Award during last year’s state run. Madisyn also was named Athlete of the Week during her junior season last year by the Lynden Tribune for basketball. She hopes to eventually play volleyball or basketball at a community college after graduating this June. Outside of varsity athletics, Madisyn helps run summer camps for the Locker Room gym, teaching students a variety of sports.

Working with children is a passion of Madisyn’s. During the past couple years, she has worked with students at Custer Elementary School – her childhood elementary – for leadership class.

“For me to get hands on experience in an elementary setting was beneficial for me,” Madisyn said. “Also, I remember in elementary, when older kids came in, it was super cool.”

After graduation, she plans to earn a degree in elementary education and return home to teach for Ferndale School District.

“My goal is to make a difference in kids’ lives like my teachers have for me!” she said. “I wouldn’t be the person and student I am today without their knowledge and wisdom.”