Loy Norrix High School Students Named to Weekly Honor
Two students in the school's English language program are being honored for their perseverance in the Kalamazoo community.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Secondary Education
Loy Norrix High School administrators in Kalamazoo have named Essien Faria and Navodit Ghimire as their Football Frenzy Tailgate Students of the Week. The two students are enrolled in the school's English as a Second Language program and were recognized for their positive contributions since arriving in the U.S.
Why it matters
The recognition highlights the resilience and community involvement of students navigating the transition to a new country and school system. Administrators selected the pair for their consistent perseverance and support of others.
The award marks the selection of two students who have recently navigated international moves, including one student who arrived in the U.S. three years ago. The selection recognizes their ongoing adjustment to the Kalamazoo school community.
The players
Loy Norrix High School
A public secondary school in Kalamazoo serving a diverse student population through academic and support programs.
Essien Faria
A student at Loy Norrix High School who previously lived in Angola and Brazil.
Navodit Ghimire
A student at Loy Norrix High School who grew up in Nepal.
The details
The administrators chose these students based on their displays of kindness and help to peers. Both students are currently engaged in the school's English as a Second Language program, which serves as a hub for students sharing similar experiences of cultural and academic transition.
Timeline
Three years ago Navodit Ghimire arrived in the United States.
In 2022 Essien Faria moved to West Michigan.
October 2026 the students were named Students of the Week.
The Home Front
This recognition reflects a growing national focus on inclusive secondary education environments for students navigating language and cultural transitions. It aligns with documented efforts by local districts to integrate support for English Learners into the broader school culture.
Families with students navigating a new school environment can look to this recognition as a sign of the support systems available at local schools. Parents should reach out to guidance offices to learn about available language programs and social support resources.
The takeaway
Students who persevere through the challenges of moving to a new country can find success through active school engagement. Families may want to discuss future academic goals with their students, such as pathways toward medical or legal careers, to help guide their high school course planning.
Further reading
Learn more about local academic initiatives in Secondary Education.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WOODTV.
