Ridgefield School District officials recognized the May employee and students of the month at their regular board of directors meeting on May 10.
Deborah Schwarz, at View Ridge Middle School, was honored as the employee of the month for being “a stalwart support for students and an unsung star.” Schwarz was credited for her patience, persistence and connections she builds with her students as she teaches general education classes, stated a news release. “Debbie is always willing to give extra effort and help her coworkers,” stated a colleague. Another colleague said their team of paraprofessionals can always count on Schwarz for their needs.
Austin Glenn, a pre-K student, was selected as the student of the month at the Early Learning Center. Glenn is described to be “an absolute joy to have in class” who is always willing to lend a helping hand. He is said to take on daily challenges and overcome them. “He does not quit, give up, or become frustrated,” stated the release. “He just keeps trying.”
Kindergartener Sage Curtis was selected as the student of the month at Union Ridge Elementary School. Curtis is described as responsible, respectful and resilient. “Sage is a rock star Tater Tot, an absolute delight to teach, and adds a little bit of sparkle and fun wherever she goes,” stated the release. Curtis is described as someone who sets a great example for fellow classmates and is said to have a “growth mindset” when it comes to learning new things.
Eleanor Chapin, a first grader, was named the student of the month at South Ridge Elementary School. Chapin is said to arrive at her classroom ready to learn each day. “Eleanor is always kind, respectful, and helpful to others in her classroom,” stated the release. “She is happy, positive and encourages others.” Chapin is described as a focused and responsible learner who completes independent learning tasks and performs well in small group instruction.
Oakley Lara, a sixth grader, was selected the student of the month at Sunset Ridge Intermediate School. Lara is described as one of the hardest working students at the school. “Every single day, he comes to school ready to learn with an amazing ‘I can do it’ attitude that he takes to every class,” stated the release. “He is so kind and caring with his peers and is definitely a friend to everyone.” Lara’s strongest attribute includes his ability to advocate for himself and his learning, stated the release.
Kaelena Wheeler, a seventh grader, was recognized as the student of the month at Wisdom Ridge Academy. Wheeler is described as a “shining star” who writes original poetry, can analyze complex ideas or solve systems of linear equations. As a seventh grader, she has kept up with ninth grade algebra, has learned JavaScript programming and has analyzed famous works of art. “What truly makes Kaelena even more remarkable is that she has become a star student while dealing with circumstances beyond her control that keep her at home for her learning,” stated the release.
Daniel Fabyanchuk, an eighth grader, was named the student of the month at View Ridge Middle School. Fabyanchuk is described as “an outstanding student who could go unnoticed because he is always doing what he is supposed to do.” He is kind, personable, leads by example and produces high quality work. “Danny is not only a great learner and student, but also works very hard in our games and workouts with a great attitude,” one of his teacher’s said.
Abigail Brown, a senior, was honored as the student of the month at Ridgefield High School. Brown is described as a student leader on the speech and debate team who always takes initiative. “Every once in a while, a teacher meets a student that leaves an impression that will last a lifetime,” stated one of her teachers. “Abby is that student for me.” Brown lost her father in an accident when she was 11 years old. Through that experience, she learned “how to be strong,” stated the release. Brown won her first speech and debate competition this year and earned a spot at the national speech and debate tournament in June. Brown plans to study civil engineering at Oregon State University. She has already secured a $15,000 scholarship, stated the release.
