By Crystal Hayduk
The Chelsea School District Board of Education recognized October’s Students of the Month at their meeting on Oct. 9, held at the Washington Street Education Center.
Teachers nominate Students of the Month for their consistent display of the qualities of the Portrait of a Graduate (POG), well-rounded students for the 21st century.
North Creek Elementary School (NC) Principal Casey Wescott introduced second grader Cole Clouse, son of Joanne and Rick Clouse. “Our parents send us wonderful kids to work with,” said Wescott. “We are honored and humbled to partner with our parents.”
Cole was nominated by NC staff, including his teacher, Kelly Ryan, and Wescott for his confidence, and for being self-directed and a civic-minded leader.
Wescott listed some of the many ways Cole exhibits POG qualities. Cole helps younger students at the bus transfer, in the hallway, and at recess. He leads by example, helping his classmates with daily routines and in specials [classes: e.g., art and music]. Staff members know they can count on Cole to run a quick errand in the hallway. Cole solves problems and is passionate about learning.
Wescott said NC is a better place with Cole as a student. The principal anticipates Cole will have a great year, and as they launch him to South Meadows as a third grader next year, NC staff will still be some of his “biggest fans.”
Stacie Battaglia, South Meadows (SM) Elementary School principal, was joined by teachers Jenni Linde and Heather Machleit to introduce Emma Palmbos, daughter of Kathi Lear and Jennifer Palmbos. She was nominated by Linde, her fifth-grade teacher, for her overall positive character.
Battaglia opened remarks about Emma with words from Emma’s fourth-grade teacher, Brandon Schmidt. He said Emma is dedicated to her studies and determined to do her best, which is an example to her classmates. She is kind, with an attitude that brightens the classroom. Emma contributes to the learning community and is considered a leader by her peers.
Emma’s third-grade teacher, Machleit, praised her integrity, as Emma is committed to honesty, fairness, and moral principles—in academics, relationships, and involvement in extracurricular activities. Her integrity causes those around her to trust and respect her.
Machleit said Emma shows empathy and kindness through her concern for others, offers of help, listening to others, and exhibiting compassion. These actions foster a “… a warm and inclusive environment … making everyone feel valued and supported,” she said.
Linde called Emma “one of the most mature students I have ever taught.” She is considerate and kind to others. Emma is willing to take risks, such as trying new things and sharing aloud in class. “She is confident, healthy, and happy,” said Linde.
Academically, Emma is passionate about learning. Linde said she is excited to witness the growth to come this school year. Emma challenges Linde to be a better teacher, as she must “… think outside the box to push [Emma] in all areas of the POG branches.”
Battaglia said Emma is inspirational, exemplifying the best qualities of a student and a citizen, and setting high standards for everyone to follow.
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 is available to view on the district’s new YouTube channel here. Student of the Month presentations run from timestamps of about 1:20 to 11:12.
