Connor Kockler
Newsleader readers will notice a new columnist on the Opinion Page in today’s paper – Connor Kockler of Sauk Rapids.
Kockler (pronounced Coke-ler), 17, is a student at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School who has done extensive writing for school assignments on many topics. After reading the wide-ranging political and other opinions on the Newsleader Opinion Page, Kockler thought it would be fun to add some of his own opinions on a variety of issues. He contacted the Newsleader to find out if he could possibly write occasional guest columns, and then he submitted examples of essays he had written. They were excellent, so the Newsleader suggested he write guest columns.
“Kockler is a superb writer, especially for his young age,” said Newsleader Editor Dennis Dalman. “It will be good to have columns written from a young perspective, and we look forward to reading more of his work.”
Kockler enjoys extensive reading, especially biographies and historical novels, and he has always had an almost inborn knack for writing well. He also enjoys following the political scene, nationally and internationally. In school, his favorite subjects are social studies and language. Two of his other hobbies are golfing and bicycling.
Kockler, the son of Kim and Shawn Kockler, has lived in Sauk Rapids all of his life. He has one sister, Ella.
