Twelfth-grader Riley Schroeder, 18, explained his recent awards, recognitions and distinctions during a Board of Education meeting May 14 in District 49.

“I just want to live a happy life and help others live a happy life,” said Schroeder, who’s been enrolled in the district since preschool. As a student at Sand Creek High School this year, he was recognized as one of the The Gazette’s “Best and Brightest,” an annual program that highlights graduating seniors who’ve made contributions to their schools and their community.

Schroeder, who’s working on improving water filtration for developing nations and designing a mechanical system to improve cleanliness at stadiums, is also a National Merit Scholarship finalist, an honor 1.5 million students apply for each year, according to the program’s website.

He’s also a Boettcher Scholarship semifinalist, Advanced Placement Program scholar with distinction and Sand Creek High School teacher’s choice award winner.

Schroeder is planning to major in chemical engineering at University of Colorado in Boulder.