MDU Resources Teen of the Week: Hebron senior stands tall as role model
For Riley Schneider, a senior at Hebron High School, the most valuable rewards he receives by accomplishing goals are the feelings of connection and special memories created.
"In 40 years from now," Schneider said, "no one is going to care about a little trophy. They will care more about their friends, family and the memories they made."
Schneider was chosen as this week's Tribune Teen of the Week, sponsored by MDU Resources Group, which includes Everus, Montana-Dakota Utilities Co. and WBI Energy, Inc., along with Cascade Natural Gas Corp., Intermountain Gas Co. and Great Plains Natural Gas Co. A Teen of the Year will be selected from the weekly winners in the spring and will receive a $5,000 scholarship.
Schneider's credentials shine both academically - he leads his senior class with a 4.0 GPA and is a member of the National Honor Society - and athletically - he participated in basketball, track and cross country all four years of high school, was a state qualifier for the 4 X 100 meter relay in 2023 and 2024, and he won All-District Team honors and Hebron Bearcat Defensive Player of the Year during 2023-24, and Bearcats Most Improved Player and Upcoming Player awards for 2022-23 in basketball.
"Riley is a dedicated student who achieves academic excellence while participating in numerous extracurricular activities," Jenifer Hosman, the principal at Hebron Public Schools, said in her nomination letter. "He is a recognized leader in all that he does."
Riley is the son of Corey and Emily Schneider, and he said both of his parents hold him accountable with their high expectations.
"I always try my best to get a good grade and complete my work on time," he said.
From them he also learned how to live life as a good person.
"My parents have always taught me to respect everyone," Schneider said. "Also, it is just who I am. I don't enjoy making fun of others or putting others down. I like seeing other people do their best and getting the respect they deserve. Finally, I truly believe in treating others how you would want to be treated."
Hosman said she admires the work ethic and values that were instilled in Schneider by his parents.
"In addition to Riley's strong academic success and involvement in extracurricular activities, he is also a strong person of character," Hosman said. "Riley is kind to everyone he meets. He is a fine example of a person with the values of respect, integrity and responsibility."
Scneider said he plans to pursue a degree as an electrician technician from Bismarck State College. He has already learned much about working with electricity from his dad and uncle at their electrical business.
"One of the most valuable lessons I learned is to be safe," he said. "You always need to be cautious while working with live equipment. Also, you need to do things the right way, so the job is completed the right way."
Outside of the classroom, he stays active as a lifeguard for the Hebron public pool, ushering every other Sunday at his church and volunteering as a Bearcat Buddy to help younger kids learn basketball skills. When he's not busy with school, sports or other activities, he enjoys hanging out with his dachshund dog, Snoopy.
The incentive he uses, both in academics and athletics, is the proud feeling that comes with doing a great job.
"I think of completing my work as a reward," Schneider said. "Every time I complete the assignment, I feel accomplished because I did my job for the day. I believe that if you are engaged in the learning, you will pay attention longer and remember more."
