Two seniors selected as Triple ‘A’ Award recipients at Burnsville High School 

Coretta Dawson and Noah Steinhouse have been selected as this year’s Triple “A” Award recipients at Burnsville High School (BHS).

To qualify as a Triple "A" Award recipient, a student must have a “B” or better grade point average (GPA) and participate in fine arts activities and athletics sponsored by the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL).

“The MSHSL Triple ‘A’ Award is one of the most prestigious awards a student in the state of Minnesota can achieve,” said Kevin Kleiner, BHS athletics director. “Coretta and Noah are shining lights at Burnsville High School and very deserving of being our award nominees. They are amazing, well-rounded students with many talents, interests and accomplishments. They serve as wonderful role models for younger students to follow.”

Coretta has been a member of the BHS marching band, where she grew as a musician and eventually became section leader, and has participated in choir and theater. She’s been a lead character in two plays and is currently the front house manager and head usher. Moreover, Coretta has maintained a 4.0 GPA while taking a combination of AP, CIS and PSEO (post-secondary enrollment option). 

Throughout her high school journey, Coretta has also been a member of the girls swim and dive team, where she has found her passion for encouraging her teammates in the pool, in the weight room and in daily life.

“One of the biggest things that sticks out to me about Cori is her genuine care and compassion for every task she undertakes,” said Kim Harrod, BHS teacher and swim/dive coach. “Some of our core values on the team are getting these young athletes to recognize that their strength is beautiful, that teamwork and compassion for others will help them succeed, and that competition is fun and how we improve. Through her leadership, Cori fully embodies these attributes and helps the other younger athletes see the personal growth they can experience through embodying these values.” 

Since eighth grade, Noah has been a member of winter drumline and has worked his way up to center snare and battery captain. Additionally, he has also been a member of the BHS orchestra and marching band. He has consistently maintained a high GPA while taking several Advanced Placement and College In the Schools courses. Noah, who’s been a member of the boy’s tennis team since ninth grade, is a captain of the team and plays at the No. 1 singles spot.

“Noah’s leadership extends beyond his immediate responsibilities, as he actively contributes to the development of future leaders,” said Paul Connell, BHS teacher and band director. “His ability to inspire and guide his peers showcases his commitment to the growth and success of our entire music program.” 

Connell added: “What sets Noah apart is not only his musical talent but also his character. He has evolved into a patient, understanding and caring individual. This year, as one of the few seniors, Noah has embraced added responsibility by nurturing younger students. His mentorship has been instrumental in fostering a positive and supportive environment within the drumline.”

Both seniors will be going to college next year. Coretta plans to attend Hamline University in St. Paul and major in secondary math education. Noah plans to attend Macalester College, also in St. Paul, and major in computer science.