By Crystal Hayduk
The Chelsea School District Board of Education met January’s Students of the Month at its meeting on Jan. 23, held at Chelsea High School (CHS).
Students of the Month are nominated by their teachers for exhibiting qualities of the Portrait of a Graduate (POG), well-rounded students for the 21st century.
Matt Ceo, Beach Middle School principal, introduced eighth grader Hunter Murphy, son of Jason and Kristine. He was nominated by Kristi Henry and other teachers on the eighth-grade Blue Team for his academic and social excellence.
Hunter’s teachers identify him as a model of the best qualities of what is expected from a Chelsea Bulldog. He is “… an advocate, an involved contributor, and self-directed… who can be relied on to demonstrate appropriate communication skills.”
Caleb Coon, Hunter’s science teacher, recognizes one of Hunter’s greatest strengths as his ability to adapt to and work well with any group. Coon said the POG competency of collaboration is crucial to thriving in fields that require working with a variety of people who have different styles of learning and communication, and Hunter’s skills already indicate he will have success in this area.
Hunter’s algebra teacher, Loren Thorburn, said Hunter works hard to master academic content and be a critical problem solver. “He is reflective when peers and teachers review his work,” he said.
“This is extremely high praise,” said Ceo.
CHS Principal, Dr. Nick Angel, and his assistant principal, Dr. Luman Strong, introduced Sarah Capper, daughter of Tom and Lisa. Sarah, a senior, was nominated by teachers in the physical education department because she has displayed confidence, adaptability, and involved contributions this year.
Her academic teachers during her years at CHS also provided feedback about Sarah’s POG qualities.
Matt Pedlow said she works hard and is empathetic in and out of the classroom. Her love of learning makes her a joy to have in his class.
Heather Hugg agrees that Sarah works hard in class, showing grit in class and on her math homework. “She collaborates with her team and is a great problem-solver,” she said.
Laura Woodruff called Sarah a “pivotal member” of her Advanced Placement United States History course. Woodruff said Sarah is “kind, outgoing, and bold.” She participated in class, showing leadership and character.
Adam Schilt said Sarah’s flexibility reliability, and willingness to take on challenges means she blooms in every situation. “She is a strong leader as a department chair in journalism class,” he said. “She seeks new opportunities and ways to contribute as a leader.”
The board presented both students 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 2:15 to 8:45.
