Bolts senior receives national leadership award

For as long as he can remember, Scott Tew has wanted to make things better for those around him.

Whether he’s helping peers with music lessons, leading band members as a drum major or diving into new speech and debate topics, he doesn’t shy away from a challenge. Those experiences have not only pushed him to grow but have also helped him build meaningful relationships and develop into a leader within his school and community.

“I don’t know how much you can advocate for making life better when you’re young,” he said, “but my long-term goal has always been to make my environment and life as fulfilling and enjoyable as possible and to be a leader and a positive force in the community.”

The Thunder Basin senior and salutatorian has seen his hard work pay off in many ways. And this year, he’ll receive national recognition as the recipient of the Billy Michal Student Leadership Award, presented by the National WWII Museum. The award is given to just one student from each state and recognizes students who embody leadership, teamwork, tolerance and creativity.

TBHS social studies teacher Traci Schladweiler, who nominated Tew, said his passion and depth of understanding – especially when it comes to history – stand out.

“He can talk about anything history-related and always interacts well with his peers,” she said. “He’s a drum major in band, he’s in orchestra, speech and debate – he’s just a great representative of the school community.”

She also noted his ability to thoughtfully argue both sides of an issue, a skill Tew has developed through debate. That experience has broadened his perspective on issues across the state and country.

Although his mother, Danielle, initially thought the award notification may be a scam, she wasn’t surprised to learn it was real.

“He is a natural-born leader,” she said. “He’s an engaged student. He may have a touch of senioritis right now, but he’s always truly invested in what he’s passionate about.”

She recalls an activity from his junior high years in which he outlined his future plans: to become a “beloved” orchestra teacher, speech and debate coach and even governor.

“He just wants to make everything better,” she said. “He wants kids to have opportunities to experience the same things he’s been passionate about.”

Throughout his school career, Tew has worked to advocate for those passions. An All-State cellist, he’s supported fellow musicians through lessons, and as a member of the speech and debate team, he’s collaborated with students across Wyoming to advocate for public policy issues.

While he never expected to receive a national award, Tew is grateful for the recognition and the opportunities it may bring.

“It always feels good to be recognized for hard work,” he said, "especially when that work has been years in the making. I’m just very glad people have noticed it.”

Tew and his mother will travel to New Orleans June 4–7 for the 2026 American Spirit Awards. During the trip, they’ll tour the National WWII Museum, join in a variety of activities and attend the ceremony honoring his achievement.

While he’s excited for the experience as a whole, Tew is especially hopeful for the chance to meet renowned composer and conductor John Williams, who will also be honored at the event. Williams’ scores for films like 𝘚𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘭𝘦𝘳’𝘴 𝘓𝘪𝘴𝘵 and 𝘚𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘷𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘙𝘺𝘢𝘯 have brought history to life for audiences around the world.

As a dedicated musician and orchestra enthusiast, Tew said there would be no better way to cap off the trip.

“Meeting him would be pretty cool,” he said.

Congratulations, Scott! Thank you for being a leader in our schools and throughout Campbell County 👏🏼