MSHSL AAA Award Nominees Jonas Taylor and Josie Epler

Two outstanding seniors from Richfield High School, Josie Epler and Jonas Taylor, were nominated for the prestigious Minnesota State High School League’s (MSHSL) Academic, Arts and Athletics (Triple A) Award. This honor recognizes high school seniors who not only excel academically but also actively participate in both athletic and fine arts programs, demonstrating a well-rounded commitment to their school and community.

To be considered for this award, students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and they must compete in at least one MSHSL-sponsored sport and one art or activity program. Josie and Jonas were selected as Richfield’s nominees. While neither Josie nor Jonas advanced past the Regional level in the award process, their nomination is a testament to their hard work, dedication and success in balancing academics, athletics and the arts. You can read about each of these students below. We are so proud of them! 

Jonas Taylor

Jonas Taylor has excelled in multiple areas, demonstrating leadership and resilience. After eleven years of studying, Jonas received his Seal of Biliteracy and has maintained a solid GPA while participating in multiple College in the Schools courses. 

As a musician, he has dedicated six years to his instrument and risen to a leadership role in the band. Serving as the low brass section leader since his sophomore year, Jonas has taken pride in the band's progress and growth. During his time in the band, he received a Solo/Ensemble Superior Rating two years in a row, as well as participated in the All-Conference Band those same years. He also challenged himself by auditioning for All-State jazz while balancing homework, sports commitments and family responsibilities. During his spare time, Jonas joined his mom in teaching her second-grade school music class, hoping to cultivate a love for music in the next generation. 

In athletics, Jonas participated in multiple sports throughout high school – Cross Country, Swim and Dive, Volleyball and Tennis. In Cross Country, he was an All-Conference athlete his senior year, as well as a team captain. He describes his experience as one of perseverance and dedication, managing four different sports while continuously improving his skills. He hopes to make it to the state level in at least one of his sports this year. 

“I’ve truly developed a love for all the sports I do and can’t imagine my life without them,” said Jonas. “My teammates aren’t just teammates anymore. They’re like family to me.”

Cross Country Coach Marty Huberty describes Jonas as a super student with an amazing work ethic and stellar leadership skills. “No matter how hard running was, he did so with a smile on his face and a positive attitude. Although he wasn’t captain at the time, he would take the younger runners under his wing and run with them and get to know them. After watching his leadership, I named him one of the team’s captains.”

Reflecting on his journey, Jonas expressed gratitude for the friendships, experiences and lessons he has gained. He also credits the support of his family, teachers, counselor and advisor, and former seniors who acted as a mentor to him.

“Without their support, I can say, without a doubt, I would not be as successful as I am today,” said Jonas. “Their faith pushed (and pulled) me along the road toward my future, allowing me to strive for both my academic and athletic goals.”

In the future, Jonas will attend the University of Minnesota–Duluth and plans to double major in Exercise & Rehabilitation and Performance Music. 

Josie Epler

Josie has consistently achieved academic excellence, earning A Honor Roll for both semesters of her sophomore and junior years and for the fall semester of her freshman year. She is currently participating in our College in the Schools courses as well as taking an Advanced Placement course. Josie also received the Spotlight on Scholarship award in her junior year for maintaining above a 3.0 GPA while participating in Swimming. 

In addition to her academic success, Josie has been a dedicated member of the marching band since her freshman year and will be leading her section this year. She has also been part of the Swim and Dive team for four years and was a team captain her senior year. She received an All-Conference Honorable Mention her senior year, as well. 

Josie’s artistic talent was recognized when a piece of her work received an excellent rating and was chosen for the Spotlight on the Arts at last year's Section Visual Arts Festival. 

“Art has been a huge part of developing my confidence,” shared Josie. “I love expressing myself visually and often use my work as a way to process my emotions. Being recognized for my art and ideas has helped me trust my own voice more, and not be so afraid to share it.”

Band director Chad Armbruster commends Josie for her consistent, strong work ethic, discipline and intense passion for learning and leading. “Her leadership has proven to be anchored in a set of values that are mature and inclusive,” shared Mr. Armbruster. “Beyond her ability to encourage and nurture students in our program, the example that she sets as a role model through her actions is commendable.”

After graduation, Josie plans to attend Minnesota State University – Moorhead, where she will study Art Education.