Officials from the Ridgefield School District recognized the November employee and students of the month at a school board meeting on Nov. 9.
James Ruiz, the Connection Center mentor at South Ridge Elementary School, was recognized as the employee of the month. Ruiz started to volunteer as a parent and later became the school’s recess paraeducator, stated a news release. He has spent the last several years teaching students how to be respectful, responsible and resilient during recess. “He uses the right combination of tough love, kindness, compassion and empathy with students and they love him for it,” stated the release.
Carly Jackson was named the student of the month at the Early Learning Center. Jackson is described as a “thoughtful and reflective listener,” who often finds connections to her own life that she shares with others. “When a new student arrives, she’s the first one to welcome them and eagerly invites them into play, conversation and all things preschool-related.”
Koa Robinson was named the student of the month at South Ridge Elementary School. Robinson, who is a second grader, “has shown tremendous perseverance and resilience as he tackles this new school year,” stated the release. Once he learns a new skill, Robinson is said to implement his knowledge to help him succeed. He is also described as a kid who is quick to help a friend in need, while also helping keep the classroom clean.
Weston Cornelius was named the student of the month at Union Ridge Elementary School. Cornelius, who is a second grader, is described as polite, respectful and a hard worker. “His peers frequently comment about those character traits Weston demonstrates on a daily basis,” stated the release. “In addition to those admirable traits, Weston advocates for himself and shows his desire to learn and grow to be the best he can be.”
At Wisdom Ridge Academy, Josephine Rehley was selected as the student of the month. Rehley, a fifth grader, knows how to push through challenges to forge “a path forward toward excellence,” stated the release. Rehley is described as a “pre-professional dancer” and choir member who works hard to balance her life, while prioritizing her learning. She also attends enrichment class during the week and shows kindness and respect to everyone around her, stated the release.
Sixth grader Robert Hull was named the student of the month at Sunset Ridge Intermediate School. Hull is described as “an excellent student and an exceptional young man,” who is selfless, caring and hardworking. Hull often lends a helping hand to students and teachers. He also cleans his area and other spots in the school to add to the safety of the classroom, stated the release.
At View Ridge Middle School, eighth grader Andrew Soare was named the student of the month. Soare is engaged in his learning and is described as enthusiastic, ready to participate and dedicated. “His compassion, empathy and helpfulness toward his classmates sets an example for all,” stated the release. Soare is musically talented, stated the release, and uses that to grow as an individual. He also showcases a level of maturity that is rare for his age group, stated the release.
Senior Morgan Harter was named the student of the month at Ridgefield High School. Harter is the Associated Student Body president, has a 3.9 GPA and has played on the varsity volleyball team for four years. She is also a university-bound scholar athlete and has won two state championships, stated the release. Harter is described as a student who is “concerned with the well-being of our students and is working hard to learn how to help students get what they need,” stated the release. After high school, Harter will play volleyball for Northwest University, where she plans to study business finance. She hopes to go into accounting and eventually wants to become a chief financial officer.
