Student of the Month is Direct Support Professional

Jodessa Wiehr earns award from Heartland Energy and KJAM Radio

Arlington High School senior Jodessa Wiehr plans to make a career of helping others.

After graduation, Wiehr will pursue a nursing degree at Mitchell Technical College with hopes of becoming a licensed practical nurse or registered nurse.

She has experience in the field, currently working part-time as a direct support professional (DSP) at ADVANCE in Brookings. DSPs support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, helping them realize their full potential and integrate and engage in their community.

Wiehr’s dedication, compassion and person-centered approach in her work led her to being nominated for a prestigious DSP Excellence Award in 2023. She was also able to attend the Simply the Best Conference with DSPs from around the state.

She has a similar demeanor at school, known by school officials and peers for her positive attitude, intelligence and warmth.

“Jodessa is a great student who is responsible and respectful of others,” said AHS Principal Linda Parry. “She maintains good grades while involved in a variety of extracurricular activities. Whether participating in music or competing in FFA career and leadership development events, Jodessa adds value to our school and we will miss her next year.”

Wiehr has been named Student of the Month by Heartland Energy and KJAM Radio. She’s recognized as a well-rounded student with excellent grades and leadership qualities.

Wiehr is active in FFA including four years serving in an officer position. She is currently president of her local chapter. She’s also a past participant of HOBY and Girls State and served as the marching band drum major her senior year. She’s a four-year member of the AHS Honor Roll.

Wiehr is the daughter of Tim and Kelly Wiehr. In her free time she enjoys spending time with family members and friends, volunteering, hunting, fishing and photography. In 2023 she was named the Kingsbury Snow Queen Runner-Up.

The “Student of the Month” is awarded through a partnership of Heartland Energy and KJAM Radio in Madison and recognizes exceptional students in one of five area school districts. Heartland Energy provides wholesale power to the cities of Arlington, Colman, Howard, Madison and Volga, all of which are in the KJAM listening area. Officials from each participating school nominate students for the award.

Each month of the school year, Heartland Energy presents an outstanding student from one of these schools with a recognition certificate and small token, and advertisements announcing the winning student air on KJAM Radio.