The School District of Philadelphia is proud to recognize De’Anna of William W. Bodine High School for International Affairs as a Senior of the Month, an honor that reflects not only her academic excellence, but also the strength of her character, leadership, and unwavering commitment to her school community.
De’Anna is an exceptional student who exemplifies what it means to lead with both intellect and purpose. As an Honor Roll student and a member of the National Honor Society, she has consistently demonstrated a high level of academic achievement. Her participation in the full International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program further underscores her dedication to rigorous learning, as she continues to master advanced research, critical thinking, and time management skills through one of the most demanding high school curricula in the world.
Beyond the classroom, De’Anna’s impact is deeply felt throughout the Bodine community. As President of the Black Student Union, she serves as a powerful and necessary voice for her peers, advocating for inclusion, representation, and student engagement. In her role as Manager of the school track team, she brings a strong sense of organization and a “team-first” mentality, ensuring that student-athletes are supported and that operations run smoothly behind the scenes.
What truly sets De’Anna apart is her remarkable sense of ownership and pride in her school. Each summer, without being asked, she takes the initiative to maintain the Bodine Garden, dedicating her time and energy to ensuring the campus remains vibrant and cared for, even when school is not in session. This level of autonomy and commitment speaks volumes about her character. Staff across the building consistently commend her maturity, independence, and professionalism, noting that she sets a standard for excellence that others naturally follow.
Through her academic and extracurricular experiences, De’Anna has developed a well-rounded and highly transferable skill set. Her leadership roles have strengthened her abilities in project management, collaboration, and advocacy, while her IB coursework has prepared her for the intellectual demands of higher education. Her dedication to environmental stewardship through the Bodine Garden further reflects a forward-thinking mindset that aligns with the values of today’s colleges and careers.
De’Anna’s future is undeniably bright. She possesses a rare combination of intellectual rigor and personal agency, qualities that will not only carry her through a competitive university environment but also position her as a leader in whatever field she chooses to pursue. She does not simply participate; she leads, she builds, and she takes ownership.
The School District of Philadelphia proudly celebrates De’Anna as a Senior of the Month and looks forward to all she will accomplish in the years ahead.
We asked De’Anna our favorite list of questions:
Why do you think you were nominated as Senior of the Month?
I think I’m nominated to be Senior of the Month because I am a full IB diploma student, and I challenged myself within my classes and have been able to succeed. Despite my strong academics, I try my best to give back to my school by volunteering and getting involved in the events that Bodine has to offer. I’m president of both the Black Student Union and the National Honor Society at my school. The clubs that I am involved in, I feel, help to support students, but also volunteer to improve Bodine through tutoring, beautification, and hosting events.
You were nominated by (Dr. David Brown). Explain your relationship. Explain their role in your experience at your school.
Dr. Brown is technically a new principal to Bodine, having come in about a year ago. Though, despite being his first school as a principal, he stepped up to make changes and fix problems within the school. Dr. Brown was an IB diploma student when he was in high school. He was the first principal to sit and talk to us IB diploma students about the process, encourage us to push forward, and give us resources and opportunities to finish this process. Like being able to use the IMC for a quiet and research space, volunteer hours for CAS, etc. Dr. Brown is pushing Bodine forward academically while continuing to keep the culture of Bodine as a family alive.
What is one thing you’d like to share about yourself that most people don’t know about you?
Most people within my school know me for my academics, though I would say I’m a jack of all trades. I will try my best to try new things when I am younger. I took dance, vocal, keyboard, and violin lessons. I did girls wrestling with “Beat the Streets”, now I play squash with a non-profit organization, “Squashsmarts,” at Arlen Specter on Drexel’s campus.
How did you choose your high school? What do you enjoy most when you are not at school?
Coming from a predominantly white middle school. I wanted a change of environment, so Bodine was a high contender for a school that was diverse while great with academics. My mother also pushes the opportunities available, such as the IB program and international affairs, to be able to travel. When I’m not at school, I enjoy playing squash, going out to eat with friends, and spending quality time with my loved ones.
What is the best thing about attending school at Bodine?
The best thing about attending Bodine is being able to be in an environment that is fun but also has academic opportunities. Despite Bodine being on the smaller side, the school pride and culture are still alive. When I first attended Bodine, I had no clue about the monthly assemblies, but they have become something I look forward to. Having the opportunity to take a full IB roster of classes is great, as many schools in the school district don’t have IB. The classes are definitely more challenging, but the teachers are very understanding and are always willing to help.
What is one thing that the School District could do to improve its service to students?
Learning comes from the environment that is created for students. I know that the problem at each school varies, but one thing that the school district can change is the buildings themselves. Personally, at my school, the temperature could be way too hot or freezing in some classrooms. Ensuring that when a student sits within their seat, all the physical things within the building are properly fixed, I think, will increase the student’s ability to learn. When there are no physical barriers that are stopping the students from being able to learn, I think that is a step in the right direction.
De’Anna, we are so excited for you – best of luck in the college and career of your dreams!