Tyler Shattuck is a Top All-Around Student at Millikan
by Kathryn Clark, Counselor

As a National Merit Semi-Finalist, Tyler Shattuck is finding himself among the most outstanding seniors in the country.  The remarkable young men and women chosen for this honor are obviously ‘head and shoulders’ above their peers in academics. But, in Tyler’s case, the statement is literal as well as figurative.  As a 6’8”, 205-pound power forward on Millikan’s basketball team, he towers above many of his competitors.  The same could be said for his presence in the classroom.  And, in both arenas, Tyler is a standout.  His dominance, however, is accomplished with grace, humility, and appreciation for the efforts others have made to his success. 

Because of his many talents, Tyler was faced with a very tough decision last year regarding his schedule.  As an outstanding flautist he has been an integral part of the school orchestra since his freshman year.  Last year, Millikan’s master schedule had orchestra and Honors Chemistry meeting the same period – there was no way for him to be in both classes at the same time.  He’d be able to continue in orchestra if he took regular chemistry, but there would be no opportunity to take the Honors course.  I received a call from the Honors Chemistry teacher saying that we needed to do something so that Tyler could be in his class.  Mr. Brown knew him from the previous year and said he was one of the brightest students he had ever known.  Tyler took many days to ponder what I knew was a very difficult decision that he had to make.  He was in an out of my office a number of times to discuss the matter.  Even though Tyler isn’t planning on being a science major in college, he was still motivated to take one of the most challenging courses on campus.  He ultimately went on to take the Honors Chemistry class but continued with private flute lessons, performances, and competitions.

Fortunately, this year there wasn’t a conflict in the master schedule so Tyler is able to take the most rigorous schedule possible, play varsity basketball, and participate in the orchestra.  I’ll miss Tyler next year but know that he will embrace the experience and challenge of college with his characteristic good humor, good sense, and ability to make the best of any difficult situation that he faces.