Graduate overcomes with a positive attitude

[Editor’s note: This is the fifth in a weeklong series recognizing noteworthy graduates from the Class of 2017. This year’s series highlights “the road less traveled,” students who are taking on unique experiences or facing unexpected turns in reaching his or her destination.]

By HILARY MATHESON

Daily Inter Lake

Josh Burt typically greets people he encounters with a broad smile — but his high school graduation perhaps will elicit his most memorable smile yet.

Burt, a Whitefish High School senior, is looking forward to the day he worked hard to reach — graduation. His goal is to attend Flathead Valley Community College and get his first job.

The youngest of four siblings, the 18-year-old’s high school graduation will be a momentous occasion for the Burt family.

“The big thing for me is seeing everybody come for my graduation, and seeing them at my graduation. When I’m on the stage I really want to see that,” Burt said during an interview at the school on May 19. Some of his family and friends are coming from out of state to attend.

One family member who has been a motivating force in his life was his grandmother. Before talking about her, Burt paused, exhaling.

“I know my grandma passed away in October, and I know she would want me to get through and that’s a big, big motivator for me,” Burt said.

When asked what he is most proud of achieving in high school, Burt was quick to respond.

“Getting through high school,” Burt said leaning his elbows on a table and clasping his hands in front of him.

Burt was born with spina bifida — a birth defect that affects a baby’s spinal column development in the womb. In Burt’s case, leg paralysis was a result.

“This is how I get around — my wheelchair,” he said patting the wheels. “I just say my wheels are my legs basically.”

He approaches life with determination and a positive outlook. In a rare moment of doubt, Burt pushes onward.

“I’ve always thought, ‘I’m not giving up. I’m not letting it get in my way,’” he said with determination, tapping a fist on the table.

Government teacher Derek Schulz noted Burt’s adaptability.

“He is an example of how someone can succeed by being resilient and having a positive outlook,” Schulz said.

ART TEACHER Lonnie Collinsworth said he appreciates Burt’s determination and the effort he puts into his work.

“I had to come into the teacher’s lounge because he’s in the art room right now working on a project,” Collinsworth said during a phone interview. “His work ethic and determination is really amazing.”

It wasn’t until last year that Burt started taking art class and realized a talent for drawing. Collinsworth, who has previously taught some of Burt’s siblings, has watched him progress from beginning to advanced art classes.

“I think what’s kind of neat about Josh is he gave art a try,” Collinsworth said. “He started taking art last year and I think he was surprised how enjoyable it was for him. He really wants to push himself and will choose difficult pictures to do.”

Outside of school, Burt has served on the sidelines helping out the football team, something he’s done since seventh grade when, at the time, his brother had joined the team. He also enjoys basketball, sled hockey, hunting and playing video games.

“I know everything is possible — just have to set your mind to it,” Burt said flashing a smile.

Burt has a “more than glass half-full” outlook according to Whitefish Principal Kerry Drown. Drown was previously principal of the middle school when Burt was a student and, coincidentally, became the high school principal when Burt became a freshman.

“Josh is courteous, respectful and a friend to all. He has learned how to advocate for himself in a positive, young-adult manner,” Drown said, later adding, “I would describe Josh as a really cool kid with a genuine heart and a really bright future working with people.”

English teacher Chris Schwaderer described Burt’s knack for making other people feel valued.

“I have a 10-year-old boy named Christian who has spent a lot of time around the school. I know that he really looks up to Josh because Josh always calls him by name and takes the time to talk to him on a personal level,” Schwaderer said. “It means a lot to a fourth-grader when a high school kid knows that he exists. And it means a lot to that fourth-grader’s dad, too. Josh is that kind of kid. He is very special and will be missed.”

As Burt gets ready for a new chapter in life he gave some advice to underclassmen — “Never think, ‘I can’t do this; I’m not good enough.’ I know for a fact there’s at least one maybe two things everyone has always struggled with. Be positive. Push through.”

Reporter Hilary Matheson can be reached at 758-4431 or hmatheson@dailyinterlake.com.