Jessica Llamas, a student at the Career Academy at Truman High School, was named Federal Way Rotary’s “Student of the Month.” The announcement was made by Jack Stanford, a Rotary member, at the Federal Way Public Schools (FWPS) board of directors meeting on Nov. 26.

“She’s an amazing kid, she’s a real product, and the school should be really proud of her,” Stanford said, citing Llamas’ involvement in Advancing Leadership, the Future Business Leaders of America, and a student preparation program known as Jag.

Llamas was also honored as a student of the year by the Masons, Stanford noted.

“If the Masons like you, you’re alright, you’re set,” Stanford said with a smile.

Llamas said the community at Truman is vastly different than most other schools, and that difference has been a big help to her success.

“It’s very different from other schools. It’s very close,” she said. “It’s like another home for me. The teachers there are very dear to my heart, and the people there are just amazing. I’m really thankful for them giving me this opportunity. It’s really such an honor.”

Llamas has plans to be a certified public accountant and is getting ready for the next steps in her life, whether they be academic or professional. The board meeting was packed during the Nov. 26 meeting, causing Hamas a bit of shyness in talking about herself and her plans.

“I’m pretty embarrassed and I don’t know what to say, (but) I’m very thankful for everything and very appreciative,” she said.

Stanford noted that Rotary’s Student of the Month contest will have an added incentive this year, with Rotary planning on awarding a $1,000 scholarship to one of the five students who earn the honor throughout the rest of the school year.

“Those five will compete for that $1,000 scholarship at the end of the year, so that’s just a little bit more of an incentive,” he said.