Sparta honors outstanding students to mark American Education Week

Sparta - Each year the nation celebrates American Education Week. This year’s theme, “A Strong America Starts with Great Public Schools,” highlighted the importance of bringing together teachers, school staff, parents, students, and communities in a unified effort to build great public schools. In addition, the theme reflects the National Education Association’s vision of calling upon America to provide students with quality public schools so they can grow, prosper, and achieve in the 21st century. American Education Week was celebrated across the country from Nov. 13 to Nov. 19. The Sparta Town Council joined in the celebration as the mayor, Ailish Hamble, presented proclamations during a board of education meeting to outstanding student representatives from each of Sparta’s public schools. The five students were selected by their principals and teachers. Brett Cotten, a fourth grader at Alpine School, was chosen as his school’s representative because of his academic prowess. He is a hard worker who devises unique ways of solving problems and loves to learn new things. Brett acts as a role model to his classmates, using his honesty and integrity as guides. Fourth grader Erin Rush was chosen as Helen Morgan School’s representative. Erin’s teacher, Tim Connors, nominated her because, “she is an excellent student whose work ethic and determination make her a tremendous addition to our classroom. Erin is always the first to assist another student in a time of need, whether it is assistance with schoolwork or to just sit and listen.” Teachers at Mohawk Avenue School chose Juliette Roy, noting that she exemplifies all six pillars of the “Character Counts” program. She is trustworthy, respectful, responsible, caring, and an upstanding citizen. Sparta Middle School’s representative was Kristopher Sullivan, eighth grader and student council president. “Kristopher is a strong leader and will probably be running a corporation some day,” said Linda Nick, school principal. Sparta High student council president Alex Bortnicha was chosen to receive the proclamation for his school. Principal Richard Lio described him as an outstanding leader and role model.