By Crystal Hayduk
Two elementary students received special recognition at Chelsea School District’s Board of Education meeting on Feb. 12, held at the Washington Street Education Center.
Teachers nominate their students who consistently display Portrait of a Graduate (POG) qualities, which demonstrate that they are well-rounded learners for the 21st century.
Casey Wescott, North Creek (NC) Elementary School’s principal, introduced kindergarten student Cameron Coxford, son of Nicole and Steven.
Many NC staff acknowledge Cameron, including his teacher Stacy Rehmann, paraprofessionals, substitute teachers, and specials teachers (art, music, and gym).
Rehmann said Cameron is a “bucket filler,” a term used at NC for decades to describe someone who is kind and does good things. Anyone observing Cameron can see him being helpful and friendly to all every day. He helps other students in his class to find missing snacks, tie their shoes, and sound out tricky words, she said.
NC staff notice that Cameron exhibits many POG characteristics. He helps others without being asked, jumping in when he senses a need in another student. Cameron confidently shares his ideas and helps problem solve when challenges come his way.
Wescott said their school is a better place with Cameron there. Staff members are proud of him and look forward to his continued impact through the end of second grade.
Stacie Battaglia, South Meadows (SM) Elementary School’s principal introduced fifth grader Bella Cumming, daughter of Cindy and Ryan.
Ally Leverett, Bella’s current classroom teacher, nominated her because she exhibits positive character traits. But all her SM teachers had wonderful things to say about Bella.
Sarah Obenauf, Bella’s third-grade teacher, said Bella was a passionate learner and a creative writer. When faced with challenges, Bella exhibited perseverance and grit. She was a leader and an active contributor in group work.
Her fourth-grade teacher, Karyssa Witzig, said Bella inspired her classmates with her creative problem-solving. Her integrity fostered trust and respect from both classmates and teachers. She collaborated with others to reach shared goals. “Her reflective approach to tasks demonstrated maturity, insight, and confidence,” said Witzig, who added, “Bella exemplifies a student with outstanding character and leadership.”
Finally, Leverett said Bella acts with honesty, fairness, and respect for others; faces challenges with grace and grit; and demonstrates strong moral character. She is a role model inside and outside of the classroom. “Her commitment to doing what is right is truly commendable,” said Leverett.
Battaglia said Bella is “…one of the sweetest, happiest students at South Meadows,” and she is proud to present her as SM’s February Student of the Month.
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 timestamps of 2:12 to 8:48.
