My first memory of Jonal is butchering his name. I was showing a teacher (not to be identified here) my list of brand new grade ten students (I'd never taught any of them before). She was telling me some of the students I might need to watch out for in terms of behaviour and / or Math difficulties. When she got to Jonal she said: "Oh, this is a nice kid. Good student. But make sure you say his name right. He doesn't like it when it's mispronounced". So - obviously - I asked her how to pronounce it. "Um, it's jo-NAL. No. JO-nal. That's it." I remember clearly that she changed her mind. I should have taken that as a warning.
So, sure enough, first day of classes as I do attendance:
Me (confidently): Is JO-nal here?
Jonal (not happy): It's jo-NAL
Drat!
Jonal is one talented guy. First and foremost (in my mind, anyway) he is a fantastic Math student. He is one of the most consistent students I teach. His test marks are ALWAYS very high. Then there is his Geography expertise that you might be aware of (I know he was the school champion for the Geography challenge one year but wasn't he also the District champ or something?). Plus, there was those school models he made for his Planning 10 project. Those were incredible!! Add in his basketball talents and - I'm sure - many other hidden skills that I don't even know about, and this is one VERY well-rounded guy.
Jonal was on the France trip last year. There, just like at KG, he was a very thoughtful, introspective, and laid-back traveler. He's the sort of guy that never causes a single problem. So much so that you sometimes forget about him completely (sorry Jonal. But it's actually a compliment!). But it's never anything but a pleasure to interact with Jonal. He is always polite and appreciative.
I know you have an interest in entering Architecture after you graduate, Jonal. I'd just like to say that you will definitely be successful in this - or any other! - career path you follow. With your great work ethic, your creativity, and your clear vision for yourself, you can't help but realize your dreams! I wish you luck... but don't think you will need much of it!