I came to know Derek because of his involvement in the activities sponsored by CSF (California Scholarship Federation) and NHS (National Honor Society).

His outstanding qualities are flexibility and creativity. Derek has shown this in a variety of ways. As a CSF member, he helped in the organization of the tutoring program designed to promote student involvement. The system he set up for the tutoring program is still used this year. Although Derek did not run for office in the school's CSF chapter, he continued to demonstrate his talents and actually broadened his activities by contributing to other student organizations.

He was actively involved in tutoring students and showed a great deal of creativity there. He used a variety of techniques to help a student understand the material he was studying. When appropriate, he would help a student develop outlines or design study guides to help a student discover the essential elements in a text. What struck me in this work was his ability to respect the students he helped.

Derek is involved in a variety of extra curricular activities such as video "yearbook," and "Gilde" (a student government program of services to the school community). When he realizes that he takes on more than he comfortably can handle, he improvises activities in such a way that the workload and credit is shared with other students. He relates very well with his peers and builds team spirit. As a result he becomes an inspiration for others and the projects he works on improve because of them.

Derek is known for his enthusiasm and dedication. This year he spontaneously started a "program" to mark the birthdays of faculty, staff, and friends about whom he notices the special interests and unique qualities. Together with his friends, he designs posters, signs, and anything that would help highlight the person's character. I have noticed how these activities relieve the intensity of study and enable students to study with renewed energy.

Derek is always ready to help whenever help is needed. There is no pretense about himself; he simply does his tasks of service.

From what I have been able to observe, Derek's interest are broad. He shows excitement about going out to discover the world. His enjoyment of life and the world is refreshing.

I strongly recommend Derek.

Sincerely,

Tony Verhallen