In the early 1920s, 14 virtues were engraved on the Missouri House Chamber walls: knowledge, liberty, equality, law, justice, fraternity, education, progress, honor, truth, virtue, temperance, enterprise and charity. To honor students who embody these virtues, the Glory of Missouri award was created. Many Missouri schools honor this tradition and at West, 14 students are chosen — one for each principle. The recognized seniors will travel to Jefferson City on April 11 to receive plaques for their awards and tour the capitol building.

We interviewed teachers that know these students well but did not necessarily nominate them to find out why they feel these students deserve their awards.

Gallery • 14 Photos

Wagner

“Madi told me how passionate she is about constitutional law. She shared her college essay with me to review before she turned it in, and I was impressed by what she said. Madi is a hard-working student who I feel is flying under the radar because she is very good at doing her job and not asking for a lot of attention. I felt like [nominating Madi for the award] was my chance to give back to her. Over the past couple of years, she has come out of her shell. [In journalism], she used to just stick to stories where she didn’t have to interview people. She’s pushed herself to go out, interview people and tell people’s stories,” journalism adviser Debra Klevens said.