June 2014

To Whom It May Concern:

This letter is in recommendation of Zachary Hoisington, an exceptional person whom I have known for the
past year. While a student at Sterling Heights High School, Zach has distinguished himself as a leader
through his work habits, determination for success, and participation in extra-curricular activities.
In my Advanced Placement English Language and Composition class, Zach has maintained a solid focus on
learning and applying the material discussed in class; he takes excellent notes, asks insightful questions,
and participates regularly during class discussions. His participation shows both his knowledge of the
subject at hand and his willingness to take risks for the sake of learning and improving his skill. Outside of
the classroom, he carefully completes homework assignments and prepares diligently for exams. Clearly,
Zach devotes a great deal of time to his schoolwork, which is reflected in his impressive 4.325 GPA and
ACT score of 33. He truly is a model student who gives his best at all times.
Mr. Hoisingtons efforts in the classroom have led him to many achievements, including his acceptance into
the Macomb Math Science and Technology Center (MMSTC)a county-wide magnet program for a select
number of students gifted in those areas. He shows a great deal of confidence in himself and in his work,
yet he is also able to accept constructive criticism and seeks ways to improve his work, for he is never
satisfied with mediocrity. His writing skills are well above average, yet he continues to develop his unique
voice and overall style. Zach is a rare breed in the high school classroom; he is dedicated to reaching for
and achieving his goals in the academic setting, showing a motivation and maturity level beyond his years.
This year he challenged himself by taking the Advanced Placement English Language course, along with
the national exam this past May; during his senior year, he will be enrolled in AP English Literature and
Composition, AP Calculus, AP Chemistry, and AP Psychology. At a time when many of his peers are
choosing to slack off, Zach has repeatedly shown that he strives to be the best he can be.
In addition to his outstanding work ethic, Zach has proven to be an effective leader through his many
activities and his dedication to perfection. Throughout his years at SHHS, Zach has been a member of the
Stallion Baseball team and the National Honors Society, as a part of which he has participated in Goal Ball
for the Blind, Coats for Kids radio-thon, and St. Judes walk. He has also been an integral member of both
Jazz and Marching Band. As a member of our band program, Mr. Hoisington has served as Vice-President
and, currently, President, as well as both Section Leader and Drum Major, all elected positions, showing
that both the staff and Zachs peers have a high level of respect for and trust in his abilities. Despite his
rigorous academic and extracurricular schedules, Zach has found time to maintain a part time job. He is a
well-rounded young man who can effectively manage his time, ensuring that he takes advantage of the
many opportunities presented him while maintaining an exemplary academic record.
In the time that I have known Zach, I have always found him to be pleasant, mature, and witty. He
welcomes challenges, accepts responsibility, and continually strives for success. I am confident that he will
effect positive change wherever he goes. It is my distinct honor to recommend Zachary Hoisington.
Sincerely,

Lisa A. Denomme
Teacher of EnglishSterling Heights High School