Heartland's Klute always striving for perfection

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BY LORI GRIFFIN / Lincoln Journal Star

For the first time, Lauren Klute has a study hall in her schedule.

She says she actually uses it. And she actually stays after school, talking to her teachers about things she doesn’t quite understand.

Whether it’s study hall or staying after school, Klute has done something right.

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Lauren Klute (Michael Paulsen)

Lauren Klute (Michael Paulsen)

The Heartland senior, a semifinalist for the Wendy’s High School Heisman, is No. 1 in her class of 34. She carries a 4.0 grade point average.

“I really don’t know how I do it (keep up with school and athletics). I just have to plan everything,” Klute said. “But this semester is the first time that I’ve ever had a study hall and I do use it every day. I like having a study hall.”

Heartland girls basketball coach Eric Wetjen remembers having Klute in his health and physical education classes.

“I haven’t had her in class lately, but I remember when she was in my class, she would always ask questions. She really cares about her academics and is always talking to teachers and asking questions,” Wetjen said. “She’s there with the teachers, asking questions and always has her work in on time. And it’s reflected on her as a student.

“I remember her as someone that was a perfectionist.”

And whether it is on the court or track, she performs the same.

“She’s a tremendous leader and leads by example. She puts in a lot of extra time both with her academics and her athletics,” Wetjen said. “She’s a leader by example. She’s one of the first ones on the floor and is always making sure the other girls are getting ready for practice. She’s just a great person.”

Klute starts her day with band. Then it’s advanced literature, government, study hall and economics. She ends with a business class, probability and statistics and her favorite class — physics.

“We do so many cool things in there,” Klute said. “We are building bridges that we designed and are going to make rockets.”

Klute, who is deciding between Creighton and Nebraska, intends to major in pre-medicine,  with hopes of becoming a pediatrician.

Outside of school, Klute is active with several community service projects. She has done a walk-a-thon for alopecia and also does trash cleanup. She is also active at church.

At school, she’s in drama and has been a part of the school musical. Klute is a student council member, president of the Future Business Leaders of America, a National Honor Society member and Fellowship of Christian Athletes president. She is a Heart-land ambassador, welcoming new students.

Klute, who participates in volleyball, basketball and track, has just one regret.

“This year I just started getting involved in drama and play production and I really enjoy it,” Klute said. “It has helped me in speech. I just wish I would have started in drama earlier.”