(Greensburg, IN) – Greensburg Community High School recognizes senior Wade Schutte as the April 2026 Optimist Youth of the Month.
Wade is the son of Staci and Ben Schutte, and has demonstrated exceptional dedication to academics, athletics, and community service throughout his high school career.
School officials say his commitment to excellence was evident even as a junior, when he submitted his resume for Greensburg High School’s Work-Based Learning program and the annual Opportunity Expo/Career Fair.
“I want to efficiently accomplish jobs with perfection. I want to help my community in any way I can by using skills of hard work and determination no matter the job at hand,” Schutte said.
In addition to being a key academic leader, Schutte is also an active presence in extracurricular activities, including cheering on the Pirates at sporting events, participating in clubs, and supporting local initiatives. Schutte often arrives early at school to contribute fully to every organization of which he is a part.
He is a member of the National Honor Society, varsity tennis team, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), where he serves on both the FCA Leadership Team and the Young Men’s Group.
Schutte also leads the Junior Optimist Club as president.
His commitment to service extends into the community. Schutte has volunteered at numerous local events, including the St. Mary’s Chili Supper, St. Mary’s Parish Festival, Kiwanis Club Pancake Breakfast, and the Optimist Club’s Avenue of Flags.
He has participated in the annual Passion Play at St. Mary’s, most recently performing as Barabbas, and has assisted in teaching religious education.
Schutte has also gained hands-on experience working as a cook and waiter at Stone’s Family Restaurant and has been an active 10 year 4-H member, focusing on woodworking and dairy cattle projects.
Academically, Schutte has pursued his passion for construction, completing his fourth year this year with the Construction Capstone course, while also participating in the Work-Based Learning program at Scheibler Design-Build.
Club leaders say Wade Schutte embodies the spirit of the Optimist Creed, particularly “To make all your friends feel like there is something inside them,” and “To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.”
