'Her Initiatives Are Never About Her': North Haven Star Student

NORTH HAVEN, CT — Star Students are found in classrooms, on concert and theater stages and at debate lecterns, and out in the community doing good things to make life better for all of us.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize Star Students, and we’re working to tell the stories of these outstanding kids to their neighbors.

This submission comes from Jeanne Savoia who nominated Katie of North Haven, a volunteer in her classroom.

Why do you believe the star local student should be recognized?

Katie is a student who goes beyond the limits to engage herself in causes and activities to support others. She shows this leadership from the numerous organizations she is part of. Katie is a Girl Scout, she runs Student Council at the High School, facilitates Spirit Days to support local charities and bring positivity to her school. Katie is part of the Diversity Club and Drama Club where she always holds a prominent role to share her talents as an actress and dancer. When she is not in school, she teaches dance at Miss Wendy's Dance School sharing the joy of dance with young age children in town. She also works at our town's Park and Rec and is a supervisor at the Town's Summer Camp. Katie is a National Honor Student but still finds time in her day to give back, not because it is required, but because she knows her presence can make a difference in the success of others. Most recently, Katie has been part of a newly established work-study program where she has volunteered in my classroom on her own time three days a week. Katie was only required to stay until January but continues to come each week to support small group instruction working with the neediest students. Her warm smile, competent ability, and patience has allowed so many of my students to shine. Each and every week, the children argue who will be fortunate to work alongside her. She is a valuable piece of our day. In closing, the one thing that makes Katie a valuable candidate for this honor is her humbleness. She will do what ever is asked of her and more. She is a true gem that this world needs more of.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the star local student?

Again, the one quality that stands out why Katie is a star student is all of her initiatives are never about her. They are always about making others feel valued and important. She is so humble and when she works alongside some of my neediest students, she constantly reminds them they are valued and their effort will bring them success. Katie loves helping others and never wastes a minute to make someone smile through her actions and kindness.

Congratulations on your achievements, and all of our best wishes to you in the future, Katie!

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