Local student nominated to compete in national award program

Sparta - Mark Huelsenbeck, Sparta High School senior, has been nominated to compete in the national Principal’s Leadership Award (PLA) scholarship program, sponsored by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). Herff Jones Inc. funds the PLA program. Richard Lio, principal of Sparta High School, announced the nomination, which places Huelsenbeck in the national competition. One hundred national PLA winners will be chosen this spring to receive $1,000 college scholarships. High school principals from across the country were able to nominate one of their student leaders. Nominees were selected based on their leadership skills, participation in service organizations and clubs, achievements in the arts and sciences, employment experience, and academic record. They were also required to write an essay. “Every year, the nominees for the Principal’s Leadership Award are just phenomenal and Mark is no different,” said Gerald N. Tirozzi, executive director of NASSP. “He is an excellent example of what a true student leader embodies.” By recognizing leadership in curricular activities as well as academic performance, the PLA scholarship recognizes the importance of a well-rounded education.