Dylan has been a standout contributor so far. He’s been impactful in our orientation sessions and consistently thoughtful in discussions around how to improve the community. He’s especially growing in his ability to offer feedback, listen to peers, and spark ideas without overpowering the conversation—an incredible leadership skill. We brainstormed ways to improve NKotB. Dylan had a fantastic idea about using the tutorial space in a more immersive way, which sparked deeper design conversations and was followed up with more suggestions in our chat. — Christopher, Recess
I want to give two special shoutout to Dylan, he helped shape the agenda ahead of time and brought great ideas that guided much of our discussion. — Christopher
I've watched both Dylan and Hudson take on big ambitious projects, drive new initiatives forward, and show determination in the face of uncertain success. These are all skills we prioritize and respect. I've also seen how much intention and care you've each put towards their education. I'd like to let you know that both Dylan and Hudson have been accepted to OpenSchool and are invited to join us for our first cohort. We will be pouring our blood, sweat, and tears into this program. — Ben, Founder of Recess
The last few weeks I've noticed Dylan is handling conflict and nuanced social situations really well in our Mindustry group. I know it's been a pain point in the past for him with younger kids, but his maturity and growth in this area has really impressed me. I also just saw that he's interested in becoming a Recess Ambassador, someone who helps new kids join the platform, and it put a big smile on my face :). In essence, I'm grateful to get to work with him! — Josiah
Recess Ambassador Progress
Dylan has shown steady growth in confidence and clarity when supporting new members and contributing ideas. Over our recent reflection meetings, he helped shape a Teen Hour version of New Kids on the Block that prioritizes quick tech check, fast entry into games, and a welcoming first experience. He practiced the flow with me and is ready to run it.
He is also thoughtful about culture. Dylan models inclusive communication, nudging peers to speak up, suggest games, and bring newer or quieter members into the mix. This is exactly the kind of peer leadership we want Ambassadors to practice.
Leadership Beyond RA Duties
Dylan consistently takes initiative to improve the community in practical ways.
He proposed and began organizing a group chat for teens who enjoy FPS games so it is easier to form squads and get into games quickly.
He worked with me to adapt RA scheduling expectations to his time zone and school rhythm, which helped us design a Teen Hour pathway for Ambassadors who cannot always attend standard Community Hour times. — Christopher
He has also given thoughtful feedback on challenge design, new Recess Challenge ideas and meaningful rewards. This has helped us tune challenges toward real learning and persistence rather than quick wins.
Mindustry Cohort
His leadership in the Mindustry cohort continues to stand out. He thinks in systems, evaluates difficulty tiers and has consistently been the person to step up and organize the cohort in our latest tangle with the Interstellar Eradication challenge. Over the past few weeks, Josiah and I have been sitting silent until the group organizes themselves and we are so incredibly proud of Dylan for stepping up and filling that role. — Christopher
Shoutout for Dylan! Amazing job taking charge of the group today. You kept it light hearted, made sure to read the room before stepping in, and created a great plan for us. We made good progress today and I attribute most of it to you! — Josiah, Recess
Dylan is doing a fantastic job leading. Love his energy in these sessions, thought I should share! — Josiah, Recess (Assigned roles & planned Mindustry plan)
Socratic Recess Class
Dylan kicked us off with act utilitarianism, where you judge each individual action based on its consequences. We debated whether stealing food from a wealthy family to feed a starving family is morally right. — Christopher
One thing that stands out strongly is Dylan’s ability to build arguments rather than simply state opinions. During our recent discussions on utilitarianism, he didn’t just explain act utilitarianism, he actively tested it. That move challenged both me and the rest of the group to slow down and think more carefully about how we judge actions at all, not just what results they produce. I was so impressed with the time and effort he put into his thoughts.Dylan’s had real growth with his willingness to engage with viewpoints that aren’t his own. He listens closely, responds thoughtfully, and often tries to strengthen his own position by incorporating objections rather than dismissing them.Dylan has been a thoughtful, engaged presence in the squad, and I’m excited to keep pushing his thinking in ways that match his curiosity and depth. — Christopher
Creative & Independent Work
I'm thrilled that Dylan has successfully set up his YouTube account and has a clear vision for the content he wants to create; it has the potential to be really successful. What particularly struck me from the last session was his confidence and curiosity about experimenting and learning through his YouTube channel. — Brianne, Creative Writing Recess
Here is one of Dylan's games he made. https://eragon1147.itch.io/grapple This is SO COOL! Thank you for sharing!!! — Joan, Recess
Parent Reflection
He continues to amazing me with his autonomy and agency in learning and coming up with independent projects. — Mom
2024–2025 Teacher Feedback
"Dylan is always learning. The little worlds he creates with sophisticated characters, his initiative, growth, dedication, confidence and helping others impress me. Now he has programming and design skills - assets, controls, and game actions." — Jacob, Recess
"It has been an absolute delight guiding them. I’m so proud of everything they’ve accomplished." — Matt Batwings, Redstone
"Dylan, I appreciate you reaching out about your project. You've shown me pride in your writing, and I admire that." — Amy, Brave Writer
“Dylan continues a steadying and calm presence. He works well with teams, maintains his focus, is skilled at team redirecting, and innate leadership skills.” — Colab
“I'm amazed at how much he is learning; it's very complex, exceeding the expectations I had for the tool with 400 lines of code.” — Ben, Recess https://jippity.pro/projects/87
“Dylan demonstrates strong leadership, exhibiting patience, problem solving, game mechanic guidance, and technical expertise. His attention to detail and ability to ask clarifying questions show listening skills and understanding game strategies.” — Colab
“Dylan's strong technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and willingness to support and guide his teammates greatly contribute to an effective team dynamic.” — Synthesis
Compliance from public schools available upon request.