By Crystal Hayduk
The Chelsea School District Board of Education recognized the final Students of the Month for the 2022-23 school year at its meeting on May 22, held at the Washington Street Education Center.
Students of the month are nominated by their teachers for regularly displaying the qualities of the Portrait of a Graduate (POG), well-rounded students for the 21st century.
Kimberly Gillow, North Creek Elementary School principal, introduced first grader Gabriella Budd, daughter of Jacob and Liz. She was nominated for her empathy, integrity, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
First-grade teacher Heather Hay said Gabrielle has not only mastered the first-grade curriculum, but she independently challenges herself to do more, such as showing additional ways to solve a math problem. She shares her thought processes with classmates and helps anyone who may be struggling with a concept.
Hay said Gabriella’s empathy shows when she recognizes others’ feelings and finds ways to “fill their buckets.” She often draws pictures for teachers and friends to cheer them.
Gabriella helps in the classroom by identifying and solving problems.
Kindergarten teacher Kristy Wing said Gabriella is creative and an innovative problem solver who fills buckets regularly.
Gillow said, “Gabby is quick to help other students and goes out of her way to be kind to her peers and adults. She suggests solutions to problems and is willing to work hard.”
South Meadows Elementary School Principal Stacie Battaglia introduced fifth grader Elle Rhodes, daughter of Dan and Cindy. She was nominated by teacher Trisha Pollack for having a positive character.
Pollack said Elle is empathetic. She includes others in group work, and listens to and identifies with the feelings shared by classmates. Elle helps others to feel welcome and cared for. Other students respect her because she respects them. She is a civic-minded student who is kind and acts with integrity.
Elle’s fourth-grade teacher, Sarah Radomski, considers Elle to be a role model for honesty, kindness, and fairness. She is self-directed, completes her work, and helps others. “She has a great heart and truly wants the best for everyone,” said Radomski.
Jaimie Jackson, a staff member who has worked with Elle for several years, said Elle is curious and loves learning. She sticks with challenging tasks while maintaining a positive attitude. She is confident and shares her ideas while also asking others about their thoughts and listening to their opinions. “Elle accepts differences in all people and understands that everyone has different strengths,” said Jackson.
Battaglia said Elle stands out to the South Meadows staff “… with her integrity, empathy, and heart of gold.”
The board presented Gabriella and Elle with certificates recognizing them for “consistent excellence portraying key competencies of the district’s Portrait of a Graduate.”
A videorecording of the meeting will be available to view for one month here. Student of the Month presentations run from timestamps of about 1:55 to 10:13.
