2024 Students of Distinction
Sarah Ehler charts a course in science and leadership
Gig Harbor Now is posting profiles featuring the Students of Distinction being honored by the Greater Gig Harbor Foundation. These students will be celebrated during a banquet from 6 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at Ocean5, 5268 Point Fosdick Dr.
Sarah Ehler
School: Gig Harbor High School
Category: Science and Technology Achievement
Sarah Ehler, a senior at Gig Harbor High School, embodies leadership and dedication. As she prepares to attend the United States Naval Academy to study engineering, she knows the journey ahead will be challenging but is determined to serve her country and grow as a leader.
“The rigors of the Naval Academy will test me, but I am committed to the work it requires,” Sarah explains.
Sources of strength
Sarah draws much of her inspiration from her parents, Jodie and Brett Ehler. “They’ve instilled in me the value of goal-setting and hard work,” she says.
Their dedication and commitment to their goals have taught her the importance of discipline, respect, and integrity. Sarah also found inspiration from Ella Hatteberg, a former soccer teammate who played during Sarah’s sophomore year. Ella’s leadership, work ethic, and welcoming attitude inspired Sarah’s leadership style, demonstrating the importance of inclusivity and perseverance on the field and beyond.
Community service and faith
Sarah’s commitment to community service is rooted in her faith. She volunteers at Chapel Hill’s Vacation Bible School during the summer, leading small groups and helping children grow in their faith through various activities. During the winter, she volunteers with Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child, collecting shoebox gifts for children in need. These experiences have strengthened her faith and given her the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
Advice for incoming freshmen
Sarah’s advice to incoming freshmen is to make the most of high school by embracing all the opportunities it offers. “Get involved, try new things, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes,” she says. She emphasizes the importance of time management and encourages freshmen to enjoy the journey without rushing through it. High school, according to Sarah, is a time for growth and exploration.
Sarah Ehler
Category: Science and Technology Achievement
Parents: Jodie and Brett Ehler
Achievements/Activities: Sarah received the College Board National Hispanic Recognition Award 2022, the AP Scholar with Honor Award 2023, and the AP Seminar and Research Certificate. She holds the position of ASB Vice President and is the Activities Coordinator for the National Honor Society. She was named All-State and All-League for the Gig Harbor High School varsity soccer team and captains both her high school and club soccer teams. Sarah also helped her golf team secure fourth place at the WIAA Class 3A state tournament.
Favorite Teacher: Sarah’s favorite teacher, Mrs. Klein, helped foster her passion for math. “Mrs. Klein’s energy and enthusiasm make learning enjoyable,” Sarah says. Mrs. Klein’s high expectations and fast-paced classes pushed Sarah to excel, but it was her personal support and compassion that made her a role model for Sarah.
Best Thing About High School: For Sarah, the best part about Gig Harbor High School is the variety of opportunities for students to get involved. She values how the school challenges traditional high school labels and encourages students to explore different interests without judgment. This supportive environment has allowed her to grow both academically and athletically, while building lasting relationships with her peers.