Middle school students recognized
Tusky Valley Middle School students Jake McDermott, left, Gracie Clemens, Trevor Wilson and Elsee Koury
Nine area middle-schoolers were honored by the Ohio Middle Level Association’s East Region during its first annual Breakfast of Champions on March 15 at the Wilkshire Event Center. OMLA is an association for educators who work with students between 10 and 15 years of age.
Students receiving honors were nominated by their teachers based on leadership skills, service and character. Local school districts represented included Claymont, Dover and Tusky Valley.
Tiffany Shaw, technology specialist for Tusky Valley Schools, is the vice president of the OMLA and has served on the board for 15 years in a number of roles including awards coordinator.
“Our state-wide organization is divided into eight regions,” Shaw said. “The Northeast Region has done this recognition for the last couple of years, and it’s grown to be very successful. This is the first year our region has recognized students, and we plan to make it an annual event.”
In addition to the local students, five students from the Caldwell District were recognized. Here are the local students who were honored this year:
Claymont
Brinley Poland was described by her teacher as an excellent student who actively participates in many school activities. She is student council president and a member of the volleyball, basketball and track teams. Poland sacrifices her lunch time to help at the Mustang Corral snack shop, which is run by students with disabilities.
Crus Vicente-Shondelmyer was described as an inspiration to many because of some of the health issues he has had to endure. Shondelmyer also is a member of the school band and choir.
Dover
Hudson Ott was described as an exceptional young man as a student and a person. Noted were his willingness to help others at all times, his musical talent and volunteer efforts in the community.
Alison Linkenhoker was described as a scholar, musician, friend, writer, athlete and student leader. Her nominating teacher noted her work ethic, diligence, passion and character.
Estera Cotlet’s nominating teacher noted her kindness, intelligence and passion for helping others. She also was described as a role model for her classmates.
Tusky Valley
Elsee Koury was honored for her classroom leadership and the example she sets in her daily life.
Trevor Wilson was described as trustworthy, responsible, kind and polite. Wilson is a member of the school band and represented Tusky Valley in the honor band at the Performing Arts Center at Kent State Tuscarawas in March.
Gracie Clemens was nominated for her kindness to other students, hard work and friendly nature.
Jake McDermott was described as a leader in and outside the classroom.
An excerpt from the program included a message from teachers and administrators. “Thank you for making our days bright and for bringing that positive energy to our schools. As much as your teachers impact you, you also impact them. You truly make a difference each and every day.”