The Ridgefield School District (RSD) honored its employees and students of the month on Oct. 8 at the regular Board of Directors meeting. Two employees and six students were recognized, an RDS press release stated.
Employees of the Month
Jason Lipscomb, custodian at Sunset Ridge Intermediate and View Ridge Middle Schools
Jason Lipscomb is an invaluable member of the RSD team and consistently brings positive energy to the schools, the press release stated. He works to foster strong relationships with the students, frequently greeting pupils with a smile, fist bump or an encouraging word. As the head custodian at Sunset Ridge and View Ridge, Lipscomb is known for his dedication to facility maintenance. “His commitment to excellence not only ensures a safe and pleasant environment for students and staff but also serves as a model of hard work and pride in one’s job,” the press release stated.
Kim Babien, paraeducator at View Ridge Middle School
Kim Babien is known for her contributions to the View Ridge Middle School STEM program. Babien begins each day by checking with science, technology, engineering and mathematics teachers to assess classroom needs and prioritize where her support is needed, the RSD press release stated. Her workplace flexibility has made her an outstanding paraeducator. “Kim’s work ethic, creativity and genuine care for others have left a lasting impact on our school community, and we are incredibly fortunate to have her on our team,” the press release stated.
Students of the Month
Mateo Alonzo, pre-K at the Early Learning Center
Mateo Alonzo shines in the classroom with his kindness and work ethic. Alonzo is known for lending a helping hand to his classmates and approaches all tasks with enthusiasm and determination, the RSD press release stated. “His positive attitude and willingness to learn make him a cherished member of our classroom community,” Alonzo’s teacher said in the press release.
Emmett Jackson, second grade at South Ridge Elementary School
Emmett Jackson is an exemplary student who pursues his studies with curiosity and dedication. Jackson goes above and beyond to include everyone during school and playtime, the RSD press release stated. He isn’t afraid of asking questions and works diligently until he understands the subject. Jackson is also known for assisting his peers with study materials. “When someone is needing help in our classroom, Emmett is the first to encourage that person and tell them they can do it,” Jackson’s teacher said in the press release.
Barend Temple, second grade at Union Ridge Elementary School
Barend Temple received his Student of the Month nomination after staff witnessed a heartwarming moment that highlighted his character. When a new student struggled with English, Temple immediately acted to ensure she felt comfortable. He created a card for her, using Google Translate, to explain that he had also started school late and also spoke a second language. He then offered to help her throughout the day and to play during recess. “His compassionate nature extends to all his peers, making him a dedicated student who is always on task, kind and supportive,” Temple’s teacher said in the press release.
Justin Paul, fifth grade at Wisdom Ridge Academy
Justin Paul has flourished during the flexibility of online school at Wisdom Ridge Academy. His favorite aspect of online school is being able to attend in person for enrichment activities while socializing with other students his age, the RSD press release stated. Teachers have noticed his kind and thoughtful nature during interactions with his peers. “He strives to lift others up and looks for ways to be helpful and encouraging,” Paul’s teacher said in the press release. Despite being born with a congenital heart condition, Paul enjoys playing baseball and basketball at school and excels as a team player.
Hunter Hinsa, sixth grade at Sunset Ridge Intermediate School
Hunter Hinsa’s hardworking and positive attitude has carried him far this school year at Sunset Ridge Intermediate School. Hinsa demonstrates empathy and friendship during school, especially when someone is having a challenging day. “Having Hunter in our school is a genuine privilege. His respectful demeanor, dependability, resilience, strong work ethic, determination, leadership and compassionate heart make him an ideal candidate for Student of the Month,” Hinsa’s teacher said in the press release.
Emmett Caine, eighth grade at View Ridge Middle School
Emmett Caine is known by View Ridge Middle School faculty and staff for his positive impact on the school community. Caine constantly challenges himself in the classroom, particularly while learning Spanish. “He approaches his work with creativity and curiosity, going beyond simply completing assignments to truly deepen his understanding,” Caine’s teacher said in the press release. His thoughtful approach in the classroom helps foster a healthy learning environment that benefits his peers, the RSD press release stated.
