Alex Mescher has been named STAR Student at Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School.
The Student-Teacher Achievement Recognition Program, organized by the Professional Association of Georgia Educators, honors the state’s top-achieving seniors and their inspirational teachers. To secure the STAR nomination, high school seniors must have the highest SAT score taken and be in the top-10 percent or top 10 students of their class based on GPA.
“We’re so proud of Alex for being named this year’s STAR Student,” said Head of School Jeff Miles. “Alex represents the very best of a well-rounded Rabun Gap student.”
Mesher, a day student from Otto, NC, will continue his education at Stanford University this fall. There, he will pursue his goals of becoming a mechanical engineer and opening his own business.
Mescher has been a student at Rabun Gap since he was in middle school. He is an exceptional student leader, serving as Head Gap Guide, a prefect, and as president of several clubs on campus, including Model UN, Philosophy Club, and Chess Club. He has also starred in Rabun Gap musicals and is active in the STEAM program. He has been a member of the baseball and wrestling teams.
Mescher selected Steve Nowack as his STAR Teacher.
“Mr. Nowack has helped me grow as a person and a student. He pushed me to succeed and provided critical advice in times of need,” Mesher said. “Thanks, Mr. Nowack, for everything.”
Nowack is Rabun Gap’s Director of Curriculum and Applied Learning and chairs the Humanities Department. He has more than 20 years of experience as an educator and has served at Rabun Gap since 2010. Prior to his current role, Nowack has served as a humanities teacher, Assistant Head of Middle School, and Head of Middle School. He has also coached golf and basketball.
“I feel so honored to be selected as STAR Teacher by Alex,” said Nowack. “Alex and I have spent a lot of time together on his Rabun Gap journey. He is an incredible student and person who has a bright future ahead.”
