By Crystal Hayduk
Two elementary students were recognized as Students of the Month at the Chelsea School District’s Board of Education meeting on April 22, held at South Meadows Elementary School.
Teachers nominate students who reliably exhibit the qualities of a Portrait of a Graduate (POG), which show that they are well-rounded learners for the 21st century.
North Creek (NC) Elementary Principal Casey Wescott introduced second grader Presley Myers, daughter of Connie and Ben. She was also accompanied by her current teacher, Madeline Jacobs, and past teachers Lauren Diver and Kelsey Zagata. Presley was nominated by Jacobs, her specials teachers, and the office staff.
Jacobs said Presley is “a shining example of a bucket filler,” who steps in of her own accord when she sees someone struggling. She finds solutions to her own problems and helps others with theirs.
Diver and Zagata said Presley jumps in to help, with kindness and happiness, before she even knows what a task is. She is confident, shows empathy and compassion, and acts with integrity.
NC staff notice how Presley demonstrates integrity by helping others without being asked. She is confident, exhibits a positive attitude, and has a “greater good” perspective.
Wescott said he and the NC staff look forward to seeing Presley’s impact at South Meadows and the Chelsea community in the future.
South Meadows (SM) Elementary Principal Stacie Battaglia introduced fifth grader Liliana Hammond, daughter of Martha and Jared. Her grandparents and her teacher, Andrea Bates, were also in attendance.
Bates nominated Liliana for having positive character.
Her fourth grade teacher, Sarah Radomski, said Liliana could be counted on to act with integrity. She was a role model to other students with her honesty, kindness, and fairness. With self-direction, she completed her work, then helped others. She put forth effort to solve problems and improve things. She worked to master academic content in all subjects.
“Liliana has a great heart and truly strives to succeed in all she does,” said Radomski.
Bates said Liliana goes out of her way to help others and looks out for the common good. She has a passion for learning and puts forth her best effort in everything she does. She shows empathy through listening to others, valuing them, and caring for them.
“Liliana makes our classroom a better place by her kindness and spirit,” said Bates.
Battaglia said Liliana’s kindness and hard work make her a wonderful example of a POG student.
The board awarded both students with certificates recognizing them for “continually showcasing the vital skills and qualities highlighted in the district’s Portrait of a Graduate.”
A videorecording of the meeting is available for viewing on the Chelsea Bulldog’s YouTube channel here. Student of the Month presentations run from timestamp 1:25 to 8:45.
