“Jackson’s commitment to learning and personal growth is exceptional. He consistently demonstrates maturity in the classroom: welcoming constructive feedback, taking ownership of his progress, and striving for excellence. His intrinsic motivation has earned him strong academic success and the respect of his teachers, who know him as kind, reliable, and eager to support others.

Proud of his Tlingit heritage, Jackson actively seeks opportunities to deepen his understanding and frequently develops thoughtful, creative film ideas for future projects that celebrate Wrangell’s culture. He is a positive role model for younger students, especially in filmmaking, where he intentionally includes and encourages middle school filmmakers, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment. His compassion and sense of responsibility are equally evident at home, where he provides steady support for his younger brother with autism.

Last year, Jackson completed an independent digital storytelling course under my supervision. His focus, self-direction, and professionalism allowed him to thrive with minimal oversight while maintaining clear communication with filmmaker mentors and me. He has a genuine passion for storytelling: capturing images, conducting thoughtful interviews, and producing meaningful films. His maturity and curiosity are evident in the depth of the questions that he asks and the care he brings to his work. Most notably, he created a short film about salmon that was selected for screening at the Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival in 2025, an accomplishment that reflects both his talent and dedication.”