Some serve on the school safety patrol, lead sports teams, and organize charity work in and outside of Darien. They are seen as “bright lights”, innovators, and team players who regularly contribute to their schools in positive ways.
These students were honored Tuesday at the Board of Education meeting as recipients of the 2016 Superintendent’s Citizenship Award. There were eight students selected from grades 5, 8, and 12. Two students were from Darien High School (DHS).
“In a community where excellence is valued at such a high level we sometimes forget that being a good citizen is equally important,” said Dan Brenner, superintendent of schools. “This moment of honoring these wonderful students allows us to pause and say you thank you to them for helping us build a culture of kindness.”
Winners of the Superintendent’s Awards, with their principals and Superintendent Dan Brenner.
To be selected for the award, a student must be nominated by members of their class, then voted on by the faculty of the school.
The criteria used for the award, which was established in the 1976-77 school year, includes showing concern for others; demonstration of service; and responsible, courteous, and unselfish behavior in interactions with peers.
The recipients for 2016 were:
- Charlotte Ward, Grade 5, Hindley Elementary School
- Anastasia Zerboulis, Grade 5, Holmes Elementary School
- Charlie Hughes, Grade 5, Ox Ridge Elementary School
- William Daniel, Grade 5, Royle Elementary School
- Katie Keating, Grade 5, Tokeneke Elementary School
- Skyler Bennett, Grade 8, Middlesex Middle School
- Jennifer Schrenker, Grade 12, Darien High School
- Armstrong Noonan, Grade 12, Darien High School
During the board ceremony, administrators from each of the schools shared insights into why they were selected.
“Charlie has been a leader and thoughtful community member, inviting others to participate with him during the recent school-wide Maker Faire,” said Luke Forshaw, Principal of Ox Ridge Elementary School.
“Charlie’s incredible ‘time machine’ was a gigantic hit, and he was remarkably accepting of others learning about his work and in encouraging his classmates and younger students to dream big and invent alongside.”
Tokeneke Principal Mary Michelson noted Katie Keating’’s contributions to service. She collected birthday boxes and school supplies for the Read School in Bridgeport. Holmes Principal Paula Bleakley noted that Anastasia Zerboulis participated in Kids Care events and book drives.
“Anastasia is a good citizen not because she can be referred to as one of the “nicest” students in the 5th grade, but because she truly wants what is best for her peers, her class, Holmes School, Darien, and the world!” said Bleakley.
DHS Principal Ellen Dunn described “Army” Noonan as motivated, curious, and humble while describing his impressive accomplishments as a runner and highly motivated student. Jenny Schrenker was also noted as being a “bubbly, funny, out-going, happy, and incredibly thoughtful person.”
“Outside of school, Jenny contributes to various community service agencies, such as the YMCA Unifed Art Program and Person-to-Person. Jenny’s peers and faculty have elected her to receive this award and it is well deserved,” Dunn said.