J.T. Foster student earns environmental scholarship from school division

By Frank McTighe

A J.T. Foster school student was honoured last week for a commitment to protecting the environment.
Jayden Flitton received the $1,000 Enmax Environmental Leadership Scholarship for Livingstone Range School Division.
“It’s both a pleasure and an honour to recognize one of J.T. Foster’s most outstanding students,” principal Jason MacDonald said. “Jayden is the kind of student who not only excels in academics, but he also brings a special character, he brings leadership and he has vison for everything that he enters.”
The scholarship was presented during the school board’s Honouring Student Excellence Awards dinner May 27 at the REO Hall in Fort Macleod.
The scholarship was established in 2007 by Enmax Energy Corp. to support students pursuing environmental studies.
The award shares an annual $3,000 scholarship among Livingstone Range, Westwinds, and Horizon school divisions.
Applicants must have demonstrated outstanding environmental leadership and citizenship qualities as revealed by the participation in non-academic activities for the school and community throughout Grades 10 to 12.
MacDonald said Jayden is consistently on the honour roll and has become a pillar of academic excellence and school culture at J.T. Foster.
MacDonald told the audience Jayden’s passion is in the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) field.
“Particularly in engineering, environmental science and emerging technology,” MacDonald added.
Teachers describe Jayden as curious, humble and mature beyond his years, working well independently and with groups.
“He approaches each challenge with determination and purpose,” MacDonald added.
MacDonald said Jayden often initiates conversations about cutting edge development such as artificial intelligence and sustainable innovation.
A compelling speech Jayden researched and wrote on hydrogenous fertilizer as an energy-efficient solution to feeding the world’s growing population earned the student a trip to New York through the Foothills Educational Youth Tour.
“This accomplishment is a powerful reflection of Jayden’s ability to think critically, speak persuasively and engage in meaningful conversation about global issues,” MacDonald said.
Jayden is a leader outside the classroom, earning accolades in extracurricular activities including hockey, cross-country running, badminton, track and field and soccer.
Jayden was emcee for the school’s Remembrance Day assembly, started a school chess club and organized a tournament, and wrote a successful proposal to secure funding.
“Jayden is known for his inclusive and compassionate spirit,” MacDonald said. “Whether it’s during classroom activities or school trips abroad, he ensures that nobody is left out.”
Jayden plans to pursue a dual degree in engineering and finance with the ultimate goal of founding a start-up to find innovative solutions to energy challenges.
“This is not just a career path for Jayden,” MacDonald said. “It’s a mission. He is deeply committed to creating sustainable systems that meet the needs of future generations.”
MacDonald said Jayden is respected by other students, admired by his teachers and serves as a wonderful role model.
“Jayden exemplifies everything this scholarship stands for,” MacDonald said. “Academic excellence, environmental stewardship, leadership, and a forward-thinking mindset.”
“We cannot wait to see where your journey leads, and we know that the future will be brighter because of you.”