Bayfield High School found a creative way to power through the final full month of winter with its Trusted Adult February Fever competition — a spirited, student-centered event designed to build connection, boost morale, and keep spring fever at bay.
Organized and directed by the school’s Wolverine Strength Network student leaders — who were facilitated by BHS Counselor Jennifer Leithauser — the competition celebrated the trusted adults who make a difference in students’ lives every day. What began as a friendly contest quickly grew into a schoolwide highlight, culminating March 3 in a lively — and entirely positive — rap battle between the top two finalists during lunch in front of the student body.
Over 100 students cast votes to determine the champion. In the end, Registrar Andrea Queen, the defending champion, claimed the title with 58 percent of the vote over English Teacher and Gifted & Talented Coordinator Brian Sleevi.
The Contestants
At the beginning of the competition, students submitted nominations explaining why specific staff members were considered trusted adults. The responses reflected the strong relationships built within the BHS community, and that was particularly true of the finalists.
"Ms. Queen is our queen! We would trust Ms. Queen with our life in this building. She always makes us laugh and hypes us up with the best compliments. She boosts our ego every day, she is a ray of sunshine and never fails to put a smile on our faces. Ms. Queen is a trusted adult because she is honest, caring, and she keeps her word. Thank you Ms. Queen for being amazing — we love you," students said of the champion.
The praise for the runner-up was just as strong.
"Mr. Sleevi is the literal definition of a trusted adult. He is caring and understanding as well as transparent. Mr. Sleevi is one of the most nonjudgmental people students know, and he gives genuine help — not just in school, but also with life and planning for the future. He has a way of connecting with students that makes them feel comfortable and valued. Students shared, 'We love you Mr. Sleevi — you are our favorite vegan.'" the teacher's nomination said.
While the spotlight ultimately shined on the finalists, the event honored all nominated trusted adults who serve as steady, supportive presences at Bayfield High School.
The full list of nominated trusted adults included: Caibri Lorenzen, Jennifer Leithauser, Anna Prieto, Brian Sleevi, Tessa Harrmann, Joshua Walton, Julia Hefner, Andrea Queen, Derek Smith, Katherine deButts, Judy Terrell, Steven Long, Jennifer Phelps, Michael Cartwright, Jason Ortega, Mandi Quintana, Damon White Thunder, Justin Bashein, Tonia Wilson, and Byron Munda.
Many of their nominations described adults who consistently listen without judgment, offer steady encouragement, and create classrooms or offices where students feel safe and valued. Students shared stories of teachers who stay after school to help, counselors who check in regularly, and staff members who greet them by name each morning.
Some nominations highlighted unique qualities — adults who bring humor into difficult days, who quietly provide snacks or school supplies when needed, or who go out of their way to attend student events and activities. Across the board, the theme was clear: trusted adults at BHS make students feel seen, heard, and supported.
The Rules of Engagement
The competition began with five teams of four trusted adults who participated in a fashion show, inflatable relay race, hobby horse race and lip sync competition as they moved toward the finals. Over the course of five rounds, teams and individuals were gradually eliminated. As the field narrowed, contestants competed in teams of two before ultimately advancing as individuals to vie for the championship.
As the competition narrowed, the two standout finalists emerged, and the final round featured a "positive" rap battle — a creative and lighthearted showdown that emphasized encouragement and school spirit rather than competition in the traditional sense. Students cheered on both finalists as they delivered upbeat verses celebrating positivity, perseverance, and the BHS community.
When the votes were tallied, Queen was named the 2026 Trusted Adult February Fever Champion, earning 58 percent of the vote. Sleevi’s strong showing reflected the deep appreciation students have for his impact as well.
Leithauser said the goal of February Fever was not only to bring fun to a long winter month, but also to intentionally recognize the meaningful relationships that help students thrive.
By the time the final rap battle concluded, one thing was certain: February Fever did more than fight off spring fever — it strengthened the bonds that make BHS a supportive and connected school community.