Brittany Volpe, a 2009 Graduate of Southington High School and a magna cum laude graduate from Union College in 2013 with a bachelor’s in neuroscience, attended her white coat ceremony on March 27 at the Class of 2016 Yale School of Medicine in New Haven.
Kennedy Middle School announced May students of the month. Front, from left, Michael Gurzenda, Dylan Sandow, Evelyn Micacci, and Victoria Sousa. Middle, Michaela Blumetti, Kayley Benson, Nicole Hatheway, and Ricky McBride. Back, Assistant Principal Susanne Vitcavage, James Olender, Elijah Rodriguez, Kiley Cristman, Jianella Zegarra, and Principal Steven Madancy.
John F. Kennedy Middle School in Plantsville recently announced the names of its May students of the month. Teachers nominated these students for their academic improvement on performance, exemplary citizenship, and/or participation in extracurricular activities.
Sixth grade students of the month are Kiley Cristman, Ricky McBride, and Dylan Sandow.
An excellent student, Kiley has an outstanding work ethic. She always conducts herself in a respectful and humble manner, and she maintains her status as an honor roll student. Kiley is a member of the basketball team, the band, and MATHCOUNTS. She plays town softball and basketball and includes all sports as her hobby.
Ricky is a hardworking student who is consistent with the completion of his academic tasks. Well mannered, he is always prepared to do his best and to help others. Ricky is a member of the band, Minecraft, and the Ping Pong Club. He helps his mom and dad with various chores and includes playing video games reading, playing with his dog and hanging out with friends among his outside interests.
Dylan is a conscientious student and polite young lady who sets high standards for herself and daily strives to exceed her goals. She is an honor roll student, a member of Con Brio, the orchestra, the Newspaper Club, and the morning announcers. Away from school, she takes dance lessons, rides her bike, collects books, plays her violin, and listens to music – particularly old time hits.
Seventh grade students of the month are Kaley Benson, Michael Gurzenda, Evelyn Micacci, and Victoria Sousa.
Kaley is an honor roll student and a member of the band and the Ski/Snowboard Club. She volunteers at a dance studio, and she enjoys swimming, playing basketball, doing gymnastics, and getting together with her friends.
Michael is an honor roll student, and a conscientious young man who demonstrates leadership qualities. Honesty and great emotional control are two attributes that can be attributed to his student of the month selection.
Evelyn is a hardworking, dedicated young lady who has worked diligently to master new concepts and challenges presented by her seventh grade curriculum. She is an honor roll student and a member of the Drama Club, the Newspaper Club, the orchestra, Select Strings, and the swing choir. Evelyn’s hobbies are singing, dancing, and acting.
Victoria is the seventh grade Unified Arts student of the month. She is an honor roll student, always has a smile and warm welcome as she enters the classroom. She is very knowledgeable and confident when working on a project in computer class. Always willing to learn, Victoria assists with new technology activities and allows her teachers to see from her vantage point as a student, how various programs interact.
Eighth grade students of the month are Michaela Blumetti, Nicole Hatheway, James Olender, Elijah Rodriguez, and Jianella Zegarra.
Michaela is a role model for all. She is a hardworking student who is polite to staff and students. She also puts in extra effort to find success in life. Michaela plays town basketball and softball and enjoys reading.
Nicole is the eighth grade Unified Arts student of the month. Creative and very talented in art, she works hard and thinks outside the box. With her outgoing personality, she brings a level of fun to the classroom. Nicole is a member of the Art Club, Pod Cast, and the yearbook. Her outside interests include music, running, and playing with her dog.
James is a bright and personable student. He consistently challenges himself and works to his highest potential in all academic classes. He is a member of the Environmental Club and the yearbook and a volunteer for the Red Cross. His outside interests include animals and agriculture.
Elijah is the World Language student of the month. He displays a strong work ethic and effort, and he has a genuine interest in the Spanish language and culture. In his work he practices excellent oral expression and pronunciation. Elijah plays soccer for JFK and his town teams. He also enjoys drawing, playing outdoors, and spending time with his friends.
Jianella is cooperative and enthusiastic about school and learning. A conscientious student, she works well with others and is always willing to help those in need. Jianella is on the honor roll and a member of the orchestra. Outside school she likes to read, write, and listen to music.
Southington High School announced more students for their third quarter honor roll.
Grade 12
Lauren Elizabeth Carney and Madison Lin Chapman earned first honors.
Grade 11
Kayla Ann Judd earned first honors. Erin Nicole Sullivan earned second honors.
Grade 10
Matthew James Dominello earned first honors. Payton Mary Courtmanche and Gabrielle Sophie Veilleux earned second honors.
Grade 9
Emma Catherine Topper earned first honors. Matthew Ronald Babicz, Shalyn Starr Butkiewicz, and Alyssa Nicole McDonald earned second honors.
The Southington Drug Task Force is presenting a program to help guide students and parents through the challenging middle school years. The program is aimed at students in grades 4 to 7, along with parents and family members.
The discussion will be held at DePaolo Middle School on Thursday, June 11. Activities will start at 6 p.m. in the school’s cafeteria.
The program will focus on the following topics:
Presentations will be made to parents by Sgt. Tom Gallo of the Southington Police Department and DARE, Police Explorers, Peer Advocates, Key Club, DECA, and STEPS. Eric Korp will be providing activities for kids, ages 4-8, in the school gym.
Refreshments will be served in the cafeteria.
Contact Trish Kenefick at tkenefick@southingtonschools.org to register for this event.
Four Southington students were among the list of over 90 award and scholarship recipients at the 32nd Annual “Student Achievement Recognition Ceremony,” held on May 21 at Tunxis Community College, Farmington.
Two locals won Tunxis Foundation scholarships and awards provided by the Tunxis Community College Foundation and Advisory Board, Inc. Megan Fazzino earned the EBM-Pabst Scholarship and Gerard Niemierowko was one of four recipients of the Ruth Carlin Memorial Scholarship Awards.
Two locals received leadership and service awards. Ashley Otis earned the Criminal Justice Club award, and Christopher Kennedy was honored by the Spanish Club.
From fine arts, health, and technology to liberal arts & sciences programs, Tunxis offers over 50 associate’s degrees and certificates, providing critical thinking and problem-solving skills that prepare students for transfer to bachelor’s degree programs and employment in areas with industry need. For more information on Tunxis programs, call 860.773.1300, or visit the Tunxis website: tunxis.edu.
St. Paul Catholic High School valedictorian and Class of 2015 vice president Brendan Carroll, of Southington, addresses his fellow graduates during commencement exercises.
By MIKE CHAIKEN
EDITIONS EDITOR
For the graduates of St. Paul Catholic High School, it was a night filled with hope for the future but also a sense of nostalgia for what they will be leaving behind.
Over 100 seniors became graduates as the local parochial school held its commencement exercises at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Hartford last Tuesday.
Prior to the receipt of diplomas, the soon-to-be graduates milled about in the lower part of the cathedral, donning their caps, slipping on their gowns, and getting pinned with corsages by members of the faculty.
Southington’s Jose Silva, the senior class president, was among the St. Paul students waiting for the moment to parade in front of family and friends, and finally receive the diploma he had earned after four years at the Bristol private school.
“I’m looking forward to starting my new journey at the United States Air Force Academy and starting my career as an officer in the Air Force,” said Silva when he was asked about his feelings for the future.
Jillian McNamara, another senior, said, “(Beyond St. Paul) I’m just looking for new experiences. More education. Internships, definitely.”
“I’m looking forward to starting fresh in college, meeting new people, and just getting more experience for a career path,” Emilie Nowakowski, another graduate, said.
The senior class, with just 100-plus students, is small by the standards of most public schools.
“Nothing’s like St. Paul,” said McNamara. “Everybody knows each other. We’re all family. It’s really my second home.”
“I’m definitely going to miss how everybody is supportive of each other,” said Silva. “We all come out to each other’s athletic events or drama club. It’s like a family. We’ve been with each other all four years and we’ve formed a tight knit bond.”
“I’m going to miss being a family with everyone and knowing everyone, and saying goodbye to all of the faces I’ve known for the past four years,” said Emilie.
In her salutatorian speech, Sydney Riddick commented on the sense of community within St. Paul. Riddick said, “By definition, a community is ‘a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals.’ But here at St. Paul Catholic High School, it goes beyond that. Community means flocking to the nest on game nights to cheer on our fellow Falcons. Community means working together to gather canned goods or toys for the less fortunate. Community means coming together to mourn the loss of loved ones….”
In his valedictory speech, Southington’s Brendan Carroll spoke about the concept of “trust.”
“Our generation is one that is constantly searching… (S)earch engines are frequently being used to find random pieces of information or answer all types of crazy questions. Tonight I am here to tell you to stop searching. Instead, trust.”
“First, trust in the Lord… Next, trust in what you have learned at Saint Paul Catholic… Lastly, trust in yourself…. Every single one of you holds the power to make your dreams come true… Stop searching. Listen to your heart and discover the things that you’re passionate about. Then, trust that these passions will lead you to your calling in God’s plan.”
Ruminahui Carlos Aldave, Mitchell A. Houle, Jariet Arellano, , Jonathan Hylan +, Sophia Barlotta *, Michaela Anne Javier *, Emma Elizabeth Bartley, Yuan Ji, Kyle Joseph Bates, Oshakwé Leona Johnson, Lauren Marie Benoit *, Alaina Louise Kendrick *, Robert Kenneth Brown, Brittany Lynne Kennedy, Laura Sofia Cadavid *, Kunho Kim, Brendan Thomas Carroll *, Joseph Benjamin Klimczak, Xinnan Frank Cheng, , Timothy Joseph Kodz *, Heeji Choi, , Aaron Scott Kowalski , Caroline Rose Cianci *, Austin Thomas Kulig * +, Daniel Cinnante, , Olivia Lagace * +, Brendan Michael Critchley, Nadia Jean Langer-Marshall, Sarah Elizabeth Crowley, Zhubin Li, Morgan Adriana Deschenes, William Kenneth Lindquist, Matthew Christopher Dieckhaus +, Kyle John Lipka +, Christopher Michael Doherty, Peizhang Liu,
Class president Jose Silva Jr., of Southington, gives his farewell adress. Silva will be attending the US Air Force Academy next year.
Rebecca Lu Eaton, Anthony J. Lorenzetti * +, Patrick John Etter *, Mark D. Lozinski +, Mekaela Arianna Fithian-Giantonio *, Caleigh Rose Lozito, Daija Scott Fitzpatrick, Kyle W. MacLean, Sara Kathleen Fracasso, Jarrod M. Marotto, Rachel Anna Frank, Carolay Briggit Marquez, Nikos Dante Fuentes, Malia McCool, Krystina Michelle Galluzzo *, Kelly Rose McMahon * +, Rachel R. Gionfriddo, Jillian Marie McNamara *, Laura Giuffrida, , Christopher Melnyk +, Anna Magdalena Golda, Troy Dalton Micale *, Nadia Marie Golino, Ryan Alexander Mills *, Cameron Buckley Grant, Kaitlin Ann Moriarty * , Matthew Gwozdecke *, Theodore Mourges, Victoria Hatzisavvas, Jared Robert Murano, Abigail Hobson + , Danielle Murdock *, Jillian L. Murray +, Joseph M. Strid +, Douglas James Nessing, Madeline Teresa Sturm *, Emilie M. Nowakowski, , John Leo Sullivan, Elijah R. Parks, Helena Lucia Swanson, Gabriel Peter Pelletier, Erica L. Swicklas, Lyna Rose Pelletier, , Tian Tang *, Kodylynn Perkins +, Tatum Elisabeth Trowbridge * +, Gabriella Marie Pernal, Brandon Thomas Trudel, Carter T. Polverari, Jared Valois, Lauren Jean Popillo, Mark Alberto Vazquez, Arianna Secilia Marie Porrini, Emily Anne Vilhotti, Brendan Hunter Pronovost * +, Jiaan Wan *, Elizabeth A. Ramsey, Mitchell P. Wieloch, Sydney Amber Riddick *, Emily Rose Wilcox * +, DeJuan Francisco Rodriguez, Joseph James Wilkinson +, Isabella Antonia Sabino, Zijun Yang, Emilio Gil Santiago, Yongqi Ye *, Lorraine Santiago Morales, Alyssa Yum *, José Ramon Silva, Jr. * , Emily Jeannie Zukauskas,
*National Honor Society
+ Legacy Student
On Wednesday, June 30, UNICO celebrate the Top 25 students at Southington High School at a dinner at the Aqua Turf Club in Plantsville. Front, from left, Tyler Hanna, Jessica Goralski, Kathleen Spagnoletti, Erin Cova, Margaret Mellitt, Ryann Snodgrass, Julia Granato, and Benjamin Herms. Back, Matthew Torrisi, James Hoder (Valedictorian), Victoria Swartz, Meghan Kelley, Bailey Potter, Erik Bergland, Cassidy Race, Julie Falk, Nicole Ricker, Ryan Padden, Priya Patel, Caitlin Young (essayist), Matthew Duszak (slightly behind), Julia Reilly, Kevin Drexler, and Michael Taylor. Not pictured is Jessica Lee. Photo by TAMMI NAUDUS
By TAYLOR HARTZ
STAFF WRITER
Southington’s UNICO honored the Top 25 students in Southington High School’s senior class, recognizing just five percent of the soon-to-be graduates. The annual UNICO Top 25 dinner is a 70 year tradition at Southington High School.
With more than 500 students set to cross the stage next week and become the high school’ newest alumni, being one of the top 25 academically ranked students is no easy feat.
“Southington High School is a demanding school, and the expectations in this community are high,” said superintendent Tim Connellan, and so is the praise for students. Connellan said that of all the school districts he has served, no community encourages and recognizes their top students quite like Southington.
“Its great to see the smiling faces and proud parents,” said Connellan, “they have a lot to be proud of.”
During the annual dinner held at the Aqua Turf Club last week, students and their families were invited to celebrate the achievement that motivated many of them to work a little harder on each assignment.
SHS principal Brian Stranieri said that he has seen the award work as a positive incentive for students.
“They’re competitive at all times, and they compete against themselves,” said Stranieri, looking on at the 25 students seated in front of him, smiling for a photo. The new principal said he was thrilled to have this dinner be one of the big events he was able to experience with the first graduating class in his administration.
Senior Matt Duszak agreed that the achievement required some “friendly competition.”
Duszak, who swam and played violin at the high school, said the best part of the recognition was being able to celebrate with all of his friends—the 25 students he spent most of his high school career with.
“Its all the same people in all those top-notch classes,” said Duszak, who will be attending the U.S. Naval Academy, “We definitely relied on each other.”
Seniors Jessica Goralski and Kathleen Spagnoletti, both members of the National Honor Society and math team, agreed that the idea of the Top 25 was a goal to strive toward.
“It takes a lot of effort because everyone works so hard,” Goralski said about the competition amongst classmates.
Both students thought the dinner was a positive representation of the hard work they had put into their academics.
The evening honored the students with individual awards, and an overall sense of a group achievement.
UNICO Vice President Tony Cusano told students how “honored and proud” UNICO was to recognize the group, while event co-chairperson Dr. Joseph Peccerillo told students that the academic successes, extracurricular involvement, and friendships they formed in high school all added layers to who they are as people, and would lead to their success in whatever they pursued next.
As the students and their families heard remarks from their principal and superintendent, they were reminded of the pride that the SHS faculty has for their success.
“We celebrate their success, because that’s our success too” said Connellan.
Holocaust survivor Janina Nawarskas signs a copy of her memoir “A Child Lost” for student Trevor Messina after giving an assembly to the seventh grade class at JFK Middle School.
By TAYLOR HARTZ
STAFF WRITER
When the topic of social issues in World War II was brought up in Sue DeSimone’s language arts class at John F. Kennedy Middle School, seventh grade student Megan Fortier was reminded of the story of her great aunt, Janina Nawarskas—a story Nawarskas had just begun sharing herself.
Having rarely spoken of her experiences in Lithuania and Germany during World War II, Nawarskas published her first memoir, “A Child Lost,” in 2013, and has since been sharing her love of America and her gratitude for life, said Fortier.
After sharing the story with her classmates, Fortier brought a copy of her great aunt’s memoir to DeSimone, who said she “felt compelled to share the story,” with the seventh grade class. She hoped the experience would help students develop context for their end of year unit, focused on understanding terms like tolerance, ignorance, and acceptance.
On Friday, June 5, JFK seventh graders filed into the auditorium to hear Nawarskas give her first-hand account of life in war torn Europe.
Before she began, Principal Steven Madancy asked students to imagine what it would have been like, at their age, to live through a similar situation. In doing so, he set the stage for what Nawarskas shared, a story not of defeat or sorrow, but of gratitude and pride.
With a brightly colored American flag scarf around her neck, she told the students how she survived the Holocaust, but most importantly of how she became a proud American citizen.
The 79-year-old, who immigrated to Waterbury at the age of 11, recounted how she survived the war. Born in Lithuania, her journey began in 1944 when her family left their comfortable life to escape communist occupation. When she fled to the German border with her parents at the age of eight, her father was taken as a prisoner, and she and her mother were sent to a camp, where her mother soon passed away.
Nawarskas survived as an orphan in camps and on the streets of Germany until her father rode across Germany on a bicycle to reunite with her. The two spent years preparing for their immigration to America. They were first sponsored by a Minnesotan family that tried to force the couple’s separation, but the two reunited with her older brothers upon their immigration to Connecticut.
While recalling her journey, Nawarskas shared several anecdotes of her first experiences with American culture. She spoke of the generosity of American soldiers who fed her when she lived on the streets of Germany, and kind Minnesotans who donated gifts to her during her first Christmas season in the U.S.
She continuously reminded the students of all they had to be grateful for, compared to what she had at their age.
“It is important, at this time in their lives to pass on that they don’t need to so many material items to get by,” said Nawarskas.
She encouraged students to appreciate the many liberties of living in what she repeatedly called “the land of opportunity.” She discussed their education and career prospects, and she encouraged them to appreciate their freedom as children in America. “Respect it. Honor it. Exercise it,” she said.
As she finished her story, more than 20 students rushed from their seats to the microphones placed at the rear of the auditorium, and Madancy agreed to extend the assembly into the next period, to allow students a chance to ask their questions.
To prepare for the event, social studies teachers worked closely with language arts teachers, showing videos to help students develop their knowledge of the Holocaust. Social studies teachers Amy Fontain and Bill Leiner taught lessons on World War II and helped students develop appropriate questions—some that brought tears to Nawarskas’ eyes.
The seventh grade students stood for nearly 40 minutes, asking questions that might help them understand her experience. “What were your biggest fears or doubts?” “What were you thinking on your way to the camp?” “What was it like when you reunited with your father?”
As the students tried to comprehend what she lived through, Nawarskas continually brought her responses back to show gratitude and pride for her new homeland.
When questions concluded, Madancy told students that he hoped the assembly might cause them to reflect on their needs versus their wants, and to look at things from a new perspective.
As the hallway filled with students and staff anxious to purchase a copy of her memoir, students discussed the ways in which Nawarskas encouraged and inspired them.
Seventh grader Trevor Messina said, “She taught me some important lessons, like enjoying what I have and appreciating it a lot.”
Anna Haberski agreed, “She taught me not to take things for granted.”
Both students said the event helped them put textbook lessons into a real life perspective as they drew on knowledge from historical nonfiction readings, lessons on world affairs and trips to the Washington, D.C. Holocaust Museum.
Although their curriculum has not yet covered the full history of World War II, seventh grade students are taught a unit focused on social and world issues. Language arts teacher Victoria Craigie explained that this unit is aimed toward helping students learn about current international affairs while understanding historically factual issues.
She hoped that hearing Nawarskas’ account would offer an opportunity for students to not only connect the speech to their world issues unit, “but build a better understanding that they are a part of a living history” said Craigie.
When it came their turn to purchase a copy of the book, students asked for extra copies to be inscribed to their parents and grandparents, and offered comments such as “Thank you so very much” and “God bless you,” to Nawarskas as they accepted their copies of her story.
This is the first time the seventh grade students had been spoken to by a Holocaust survivor, an event usually preserved for the eighth grade students. While Craigie warned her students that it might be hard to understand the context of Nawrskas’ story, she felt it was important for them to experience a first-hand account and appreciate it as “something that might not be around in ten years.”
Fortier said she was so happy to share the stage with her great aunt as she shared her family’s story with her classmates, offering them an introduction to the history of the Holocaust from a first-hand perspective.
Megan Fortier, a seventh grade student at JFK Middle School with her great aunt Janina Nawarskas, a Holocaust survivor.
Holocaust survivor Janina Nawarskas speaks to seventh grade students at JFK Middle School.
JFK Middle School principal Steven Madancy with Janina Nawarskas, a Holocaust survivor, after she hosted an assembly for the seventh grade class.
JFK Middle School Language Arts teacher Sue DeSimone (far left,) and principal Steven Madancy (far right,) stand with seventh grade student Megan Fortier and her great aunt Janina Nawarskas, a Holocaust survivor, after she hosted an assembly for the seventh grade class.
JFK Middle School principal Steven Madancy speaks with Janina Nawarskas, a Holocaust survivor, after she hosted an assembly for the seventh grade class.
JFK Middle School principal Steven Madancy speaks with Janina Nawarskas, a Holocaust survivor, after she hosted an assembly for the seventh grade class.
Southington High School’s top three graduating seniors, salutatorian Erik Bergland, left, valedictorian James Hoder, center, and essayist Caitlin Young, right.
By TAYLOR HARTZ
STAFF WRITER
A thick stack of resumes sat in front of Southington High School’s top three students on Tuesday afternoon, noting the many academic achievements that earned them a spot at the top.
The three friends—valedictorian James Hoder, salutatorian Erik Bergland and essayist Caitlin Young, gathered to speak about their accomplishments, goals, and plans just a week before they will stand in front of their classmates to say goodbye to their SHS community, and hello to exciting new adventures.
Hoder, the number one academically-ranked student at SHS this year, is off to chase his dream of becoming an electrical and acoustic engineer at Tufts University in Medford, Mass.
Bergland, who said his academic interests included “math and anything that contains math,” will study applied mathematics at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, while Young will follow her two passions, finance and law, down to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
The students’ high ambitions and competitive choices for their college educations follow four years of academic, athletic, and extracurricular success through which the three students developed a strong friendship.
After years of friendly competition, “we’re all really proud of each other’s accomplishments and are happy to be the three here together” said Hoder.
Along with a long list of high-level classes, the three students supported each other in academics, sports, and even on stage. All three are members of the drama club and participated in this year’s spring musical, where they danced and sang in the ensemble of Urinetown.
They were just as successful in sports. Hoder, president of the National Honor Society, played varsity doubles tennis. Young, Vice President of NHS, played field hockey all four years, and Bergland was active in town league baseball and basketball.
When not on the court or in the classroom, Hoder stayed busy and balanced between two passions—engineering and community involvement.
Hoder hopes to study engineering focused on acoustics, which he thinks makes his passion unique—a passion developed largely through his participation with the Architecture, Construction, and Engineering (ACE) mentorship program, an afterschool partnership where he learned from professionals, including Southington town officials, and visited real construction sites like the Southington middle school project to learn more about engineering.
Though he describes his career aspirations as very centered, Hoder said that in his personal life he strives to be social and active in a variety of ways. He volunteered more than 600 hours of services with Faith Living Church, where he delivered furniture to the needy in Waterbury, taught vacation bible school, and served as a worship leader.
Outside of his church, Hoder taught the Junior Achievement Program at Strong Elementary School, spent his summers tutoring algebra and basic sciences, and currently plays six instruments, including the piano and mandolin.
Though he said he doesn’t know where his career will take him, he hopes that whether he settles in Southington or somewhere new, he will stay social and active in his community.
Bergland is a member of the math team with Hoder and Young, the recipient of the Rensselaer Medal—an honor bestowed upon the top mathematics student—and is a member of the Future Business Leaders of America, the National Honor Society, and the National Society of High School Scholars.
Young, a member of Spanish Honor Society, was a track and field athlete for three years and taught vacation bible school at St. Dominic for five summers.
All three students said that in their friendship, personal reflections on high school and their upcoming speeches, they hope to encourage one another and their classmates to pursue their passions.
As the students talked about their future plans and passed successes, they agreed that they couldn’t have done it without each other’s friendships and text message reminders of homework assignments.
While the three could easily rattle off course titles like AP Physics, AP United States History, and AP Statistics as their most influential academic experiences at SHS, they agreed that the people that they’ll be addressing next Thursday evening are what they’ll miss the most about this chapter of their lives.
“It’s molded me,” said Bergland of the community at SHS, crediting the relationships formed at SHS with the most lasting impact.
Despite the competition, it is clear that the three students have encouraged each other along the way, and will continue to support each other’s aspirations.
Bergland joked that if his mathematic concepts or Hoder’s engineering work ever require the help of a law firm, they’ll know who to call, gesturing toward Young.
They hope to pass their inspirations along to the rest of their classmates in their speeches next week.
Bergland said he hopes he can use his speech as a platform to send a message to his fellow graduates that it is important follow your passion, no matter what opinions others may hold about your goals, and hopes he can share his excitement for following his own.
“There are a lot of things left to be found out in this day and age,” he said, “and I’m excited to find them out.”
Young agreed, and plans to reassure her classmates that whether they are moving on to pursue their dreams in their careers this fall, they should not lose sight of what they love most and strive to pursue it somehow.
Hoder hopes when giving his speech as valedictorian, a moment he has worked toward for four years, he can address his classmates with the encouragement that the upcoming change is okay, and they have been prepared well, through great friends and faculty, for what the future has to hold.
To comment on this story or to contact staff writer Taylor Hartz, email her at THartz@SouthingtonObserver.com.
Nearly 30 Cheshire Academy seniors and postgraduate students have signed letters of commitment to play college sports at competitive schools ranging from Duke University to the University of Delaware and Salve Regina University.
With sports ranging from baseball to lacrosse, soccer to tennis and football to basketball, the Academy’s student athletes will continue to reach their goals of academic excellence while contributing their sports prowess to collegiate teams. The number of students who will play on college teams is the highest in recent history at the Academy.
“I am very proud of our student athletes who get out there day in and day out to compete for our school,” said Athletic Director Brett Torrey. “I especially wish to congratulate those who are moving on to pursue their dreams at the college level.”
In a formal signing ceremony recently at the Academy, two Southington students, Rachel Dube, daughter of David and Mary-Lee Dube, committed to playing softball at Curry College and Caroline Rodman, daughter of William and Elizabeth Rodman, committed to playing tennis at Salve Regina University.
Rachel Dube, center, with her family.
Caroline Rodman, left, with her mother, Elizabeth Rodman.
WILLIMANTIC—Southington’s Karolina Chrzanowska, an accounting major, presented a poster presentation titled “Forensic Accounting in Developing Nations: The Analysis of Offshore Banking in the Bahamas” at CREATE (Celebrating Research Excellence and Artistic Talent at Eastern), the premier undergraduate research and art conference at Eastern Connecticut State University.
CREATE held its inaugural event at the end of the 2014-15 academic year. The two-day event showcased approximately 170 student projects, including oral and poster presentations, art and photography exhibits, video and documentary viewings, and live music and dance performances.
“Why is CREATE important?” asked Professor Dickson Cunningham, co-chair of CREATE, during the opening remarks. In addition to contributing to the intellectual richness of campus and raising external perceptions of Eastern, he pointed out that for some students, CREATE is “the culmination of their undergraduate career,” and that they should “feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.” “Hopefully this will inspire other students to present and to develop mentor relationships with faculty,” said Cunningham.
The CREATE conference marked the merging of Eastern’s two previous end-of-year academic conferences: the Excellence Expo and the Arts and Sciences Research Conference and Exhibition.
“The merging of these two separate conferences took a lot vision, time and work,” said Provost Rhona Free, pointing out the campus-wide efforts that led to the creation of CREATE, and the hard work of the conference’s organizational committee. “It takes a very strong and dedicated student to produce this quality of work, and it’s important for other students to see this output,” said Free.
DePaolo Middle School announced the students of the month for June.
Joseph A. DePaolo Middle School recently announced the names of its June students of the month.
In sixth grade Avery Halloran, Saimir Kaja, and Nick Mowatt were selected by their teams.
Avery is the daughter of Carina and Michael Halloran and won the American Citizenship Award in fifth grade. She volunteered at Alex’s Lemonade Stand at the Apple Harvest Festival and is involved in STEPS. Avery also is part of her church’s youth group and participated in a pancreatic cancer walk.
Saimir is the son of Raimond and Meriban Kaja and is an honor roll student. Saimir plays basketball and football for the town.
Nick is the son of Richard and Karen Mowatt and is an honor roll student. He volunteers at a nursing home and is a Boy Scout. Nick has shown great improvement in all areas of his schoolwork.
In seventh grade Lili McKinstry, Kelly Bergland, and Emma Castellano were selected by their teams.
Lili is the daughter of Jessica and Jon McKinstry and won the Ecyber Mission Award. She is a Community Service Volunteer and assists at the St. Dominic’s church camp. Lili was on the volleyball team, ski club, and drama club at DePaolo.
Kelly is the daughter of Rob and Lori Bergland and was recognized at a Principal’s Breakfast. She is in the jazz band, art club, and drama club at DePaolo. Outside of school, Kelly is involved with softball and basketball.
Emma is the daughter of Susan and Vincent Castellano and has consistently been an honor roll student. She participates in CT recycles and volunteered at Our Lady of Sorrows Church. Emma plays basketball and softball for the town.
In eighth grade Zach Christensen, Julia Mindek, and Hailey Morelli were selected by their teams.
Zach is the son of Russ and Lisa Christensen and is in the National Junior Honor Society. He is an altar server at Zion Lutheran Church and volunteers in their apple fritter booth at the Apple Harvest Festival. Zach ran on the cross country team and was in the Leadership Program.
Julia is the daughter of Natalie Miller and John Mindek and is an honor roll student. She volunteered at Alex’s Lemonade Stand at the Apple Harvest Festival and is part of the Leadership Program. Julia also has volunteered to help the homeless.
Hailey is the daughter of Melanie and Steve Morelli and has consistently been an honor roll student. She was on the school basketball team and currently is the DePaolo softball manager. Hailey is in the Leadership Program and is a black belt in karate.
In Unified Arts Sophia Slowik, Austin Doyle, and Brett Hunter were selected.
Sophia is the daughter of Jeffrey and Regina Slowik and has consistently earned high honors. She is involved in programs at the Southington YMCA and is a part of the Leadership Program. Sophia plays the French horn and is on the Rays swim team.
Austin is the son of Christine Honohan and has consistently been an honor roll student. He has volunteered at the food pantry and at the Relay for Life. Austin plays football for the Southington Knights and is a part of the lego club.
Brett is the son of Diane and Doug Hunter and represented DePaolo at a Hartford County competition for Mathcounts. He is in the jazz band, chess club and ran on the school cross country team. Brett also takes karate classes and piano lessons.
Main Street Community Foundation has awarded $146,000 in scholarships to a group of over 120 students at varying levels of their academic careers from the towns of Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington, and Wolcott as well as other communities.
The majority of scholarship grants were awarded during the foundation’s June 9 Scholarship Reception at Hawk’s Landing Country Club in Southington. The reception, which is held annually to celebrate the recipients and thank the generous donors, was attended by over 200 people.
“This year’s group of scholarship recipients is impressive,” says Susan Sadecki, President & CEO of the Community Foundation. “We are thrilled to support these students and grateful to the donors whose generosity has made these awards possible for 20 years.”
For the 2015/2016 academic year, a total of 147 scholarship grants were awarded from 61 named funds administered by the Community Foundation and established by generous local individuals, families and businesses. Although each scholarship has unique criteria, all donors seek to assist students in pursuing their education and achieving their goals and dreams; they have a belief that helping students ease the financial obligations of education is an investment in the future.
All scholarships are awarded through a competitive application process. A selection committee appointed by the Foundation’s Board of Directors evaluates all applicants before recommending recipients.
The 2015/2016 Main Street Community Foundation scholarship recipients are as follows:
In addition to those listed above, the Karen Finder Scholarship Fund will be awarded to a graduating senior during Hartford’s Sport and Medical Sciences Academy graduation ceremony this month.
Furthermore, the following scholarships were also awarded for the 2015/2016 academic year to local secondary school students:
Superintendent of Schools Timothy Connellan speaks during the parent volunteer recognition luncheon at Hawk’s Landing Country Club on June, 16.
By TAYLOR HARTZ
STAFF WRITER
As the season of award ceremonies and end-of-the-year banquets winds down, the Southington Board of Education held one last luncheon this week, to recognize the parent volunteers who have helped plan, organize, and promote the many events and activities held throughout the school year.
Nearly 100 parents, faculty members, administrators, and Board of Education members gathered at Hawk’s Landing Country Club on Tuesday afternoon to celebrate service to Southington Public Schools.
Terri Charmody, vice chairman of the board, began the ceremony by calling on each principal to announce the volunteers being honored from their school.
As the principals introduced the parent volunteers, they commended their support in the classroom and their service to after-school activities.
Members of the community joined administrators, speaking on behalf of their experience with the many volunteers.
Representatives from Southington Stop and Shop, who sponsored the luncheon, and the Hospital of Central Connecticut, praised their partnership with Southington schools and the parent volunteers they have encountered in their A+ Program and involvement with the Southington Education Foundation.
Throughout the ceremony, several administrators and faculty members expressed their gratitude for the volunteers’ constant reliability and time dedication.
“These parents are in my building—if not every day—every week,” said Patricia Mazzarella, principal of Flanders Elementary School, of the five volunteers seated at her table.
While the countless classroom and after school hours were recognized by all, many acknowledged the individuals who had continued to work in the schools long after the end of their teaching careers or children’s educations.
Robert Brown, retiring Southington High School teacher, recognized BettyAnn and Wally Bailey for more than twenty years of service at John F. Kennedy Middle School.
In more than forty years of teaching, Brown said he has seen teachers, parents, faculty and administrators work together to form “a positive sense of community” within the Southington school system.
“The glue that holds it all together is the wonderful people in this room who selflessly give their time to our schools,” said Brown.
In his retirement, Brown said he hopes to join the ranks of those who serve the students and schools “with no greater reward than knowing they have helped young people learn, grow and progress.”
Superintendent of Southington Public Schools Timothy Connellan, who spoke at the luncheon, agreed that the service of so many parents helps to shape the students they encounter.
While he recognized the many hours spent planning and supervising events, handing out awards, and supporting classrooms, Connellan said the gift of volunteering goes far beyond the time they donate, by providing students with a valuable life lesson.
“You provide an example of giving, of support and of service to our students” he said.
To comment on this story or to contact staff writer Taylor Hartz, email her at THartz@SouthingtonObserver.com.
Thirteen graduating Southington High School seniors were honored on Tuesday afternon for their enlistment in the United States military. The students were recognized at a luncheon on June 10, when families, local veterans, school administrators and town officials gathered in their honor.
By TAYLOR HARTZ
STAFF WRITER
School officials saluted 13 Southington High School seniors at a special ceremony to aknowledge their enlistment in the United States military.
Following their graduation from Southington High School, the students will serve in the Army National Guard, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and U.S. Navy, with one student attending the U.S. Naval Academy and two entering Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs—the University of Connecticut Army ROTC and the Eastern Connecticut State University Air Force ROTC.
To honor the enlistees, the Southington Municipal Center was covered in red white and blue décor, as town representatives, educators, and families gathered to hear speeches of well wishes and present the students with tokens of recognition.
Superintendent of Schools Timothy Connellan opened the ceremony, which included the distribution of military cords by Southington school administrators, and remarks from John Brian Durbin, Southington High School social studies teacher and retired lieutenant colonel of the U.S. Army.
As the group enjoyed a lunch provided by CC Carvers in downtown Southington, dozens of veterans were asked to stand, recognizing parents, current recruiters, town officials and members of the American Legion Kiltonic post 72—among them were Durbin and town manager Gary Brumback, who shook hands and told stories about serving together in Germany.
Durbin, who gave the third annual luncheon’s keynote address, began with a message of gratitude. “Thank you for volunteering to protect our way of life,” he said.
He then provided the students with what he called the “Durbin Dozen”—twelve pieces of advice for their future endeavors that included never making the same mistake twice and doing the right thing even when no one is looking.
After speeches by Connellan, Board of Education Chairman Brian Goralski, and and Town Council member Reverend Victoria Triano, the students were presented with what Goralski called “tokens of appreciation and symbols of what they’re about to do.”
The students were given a red, white, and blue cord to wear proudly at graduation, coins from the American Legion, a World War I and World War II blue star banner for their families, and a pocket flag from the women’s auxiliary.
The American Legion also presented two students, twin brothers Griffin and Collin Litke, with laptops and webcams. The twins, entering into the Army National Guard, completed their basic training last summer, and will now attend military job training in Missouri.
Although the brothers said that their parents are more at ease with their decision to enlist because they will be serving together, the webcams and laptops will allow them to keep in touch with their family and friends here in Southington throughout their service.
Remaining in contact with their hometown community was a message that was repeated throughout the ceremony.
Goralski and Triano both urged students to stay safe, keep in touch with their families, and remember that “we’re proud of you now and we’ll be proud of you always” said Goralski.
Steve Pintarich of the American Legion, who participated in the “coining” ceremony and is actively involved in the laptop donation program, said the legion wants current and future enlistees to know that “we care about what they’re doing and we are going to support them.”
Pintarich said the legion aims to act as a support system for military members before, during and after their service, along with providing a local resource for parents and families, offering advice and insight to any questions and concerns.
This lasting connection and community is something that several students said they are looking forward to.
Eric Minton, entering the U.S. Navy, will be a third generation submariner. He said he is most looking forward to “camaraderie and brotherhood,” as he follows in the footsteps of his grandfather, father, aunt, and uncle, pursuing a dream he has had since childhood.
The third annual ceremony offered the enlistees and their families a strong sense of community support and pride, as they celebrated their graduation and decision to serve their country.
John F. Kennedy Middle School staff member and alumna Emily Dickson and her children, Spencer Dickson, 7, and Molly Dickson, 4, hand out “Happy Birthday” party hats during the JFK birthday party on June 11, celebrating the school’s 50th anniversary.
By TAYLOR HARTZ
STAFF WRITER
There is no better way to celebrate turning 50 than with a birthday party—even for a building.
John F. Kennedy Middle School reached its half-century mark on June 11, a milestone that assistant principal Susanne Vitcavage knew had to be celebrated.
“We wanted to celebrate 50 years of excellence in education,” said Vitcavage.
To honor the 1965 opening of the school, the party had a ‘60s theme. Faculty dressed in bell-bottom jeans, round John Lennon style sunglasses, and Woodstock t-shirts, while the school band, orchestra and chorus performed 60s era hits.
Faculty, families, alumni, and retired staff were all invited to attend the party.
Students, clad in Kennedy green tie-dye volunteered to help with activities throughout the school, while staff members handed out green colored carnations to alumni who returned to their alma mater for the celebration.
As the hallways filled with party-goers, more than three-hundred pieces of art work by current students decorated the walls, alongside a wide variety of memorabilia showing off the schools’ history.
Tables lined the entrance and halls, displaying old yearbooks, uniforms, and awards, while decades of newsletters provided facts for a trivia quiz throughout the building.
The school’s Parent Teacher Organization volunteered their time, two birthday cakes, and prizes for contests, including a quiz to identify the baby photos of current and past teachers.
Two hallways worth of classrooms were open for alumni and retired staff to tour and reminisce, while display cases showed off pieces of history, including a “50 years of technology” display with old phones and cameras, and two cases of historical artifacts pertaining to the schools namesake, John F. Kennedy.
While Vitcavage said she hoped the open-house would not take away from the reveal of renovations this fall, current and past students thought the party was a great way to equally celebrate the building’s historical integrity and modern updates.
Sixth grade counselor and 1995 Kennedy graduate Emily Dickson handed out party hats that read “Happy Birthday,” with her daughter Molly, 4, and son Spencer, 7, who will both attend Kennedy.
“Kennedy is a great school,” said the alumna and staff member, “It has a family atmosphere, and now with the renovation there is even more to be proud of.”
For those who have watched the building’s updates unfold, the party was a great way to celebrate progress over time.
Seventh grader Gianna Wadowski, who volunteered for the baby photo contest, said the historical items on display during the party helped students and staff “show how much we’ve grown, and how important we are to the town.”
Matthew Scotia, a sophomore at Southington High School, came back to tour his old classrooms and visit former teachers and said he most enjoyed seeing how the building has changed over the five decades.
“It’s nice to see all the progression,” said Scotia.
An alumni of Kennedy, Scotia said he really appreciated the school’s impact on his family throughout the years—his grandfather started his middle school education during Kennedy’s first year. His father, aunts, and uncles attended the school, and his mother, Karen Scotia, now teaches sixth grade language arts.
Appreciating the history and progress of Kennedy’s fifty years with the Southington community was the goal in mind for the celebration.
“This building has been through a lot,” said Vitcavage, “We wanted everyone to have a fun time and really experience it”
To comment on this story or to contact staff writer Taylor Hartz, email her at THartz@SouthingtonObserver.com.
Photos by TAMMI NAUDUS
On Thursday, June 11, the audience at Plantsville Elementary School was treated to an amazing display of music, singing, hoola hooping, marshal arts, and dancing during the school’s annual talent show.
State Representative David Zoni (D-Southington) is welcoming the recent announcement by the Connecticut Higher Education Supplemental Loan Authority (CHESLA) that it will offer a fixed interest rate of 4.95 percent for new student loans, down from its current rate of 6.75 percent.
“This new rate announced by CHESLA is certainly great news for students and their parents,” Rep. Zoni said in a press release. “The lower rate, nearly 2 percent, will help lessen debt for students and help to make higher education more affordable.”
In the release, Rep. Zoni pointed out that the announcement of a lower rate follows passage of legislation earlier this year which he supported that asked CHESLA to develop a plan to lower student loan interest rates.
The new 4.95 percent rate is also lower than the Federal PLUS loan rate which will be 6.84 percent and is the lowest rate CHESLA has ever offered.
Rep. Zoni praised the work of CHESLA in his press release and all the various partners who worked to make the lower rate possible.
Students and parents can contact CHESLA at www.chesla.org for specific information or call at (800) 935-2275.
Richard J. Terino (Courtesy of Southington Public Schools)
By TAYLOR HARTZ
STAFF WRITER
Southington Public Schools will start the new school year with three new administrators, appointed by the Board of Education in a special meeting on June 22.
Richard J. Terino will serve as the new principal of John F. Kennedy Middle School, following former principal Steven Madancy’s promotion to assistant superintendent.
Terino has been the assistant principal of Southington High School (SHS) since 2009 and has served as the president of the Southington Administrators Association, overseeing 26 administrators since 1991.
During his time at SHS Terino evaluated language arts, social studies, and library and media courses, and supervised custodial staff, building and grounds and the site budget.
He has been a facilitator of the Grades 8-9 Transition Committee since 2012 and the Professional Development and Evaluation Committee since 2010 and was the president of the Southington Education Association until 2012. He was the director of both the summer school program from 2003 to 2012, and the Head Start program from 1997-2003, through the Board of Education.
Terino received his Bachelor of Science in English and history from Central Connecticut State University (CCSU,) in 1975, his Master of Science in Special Education from CCSU in 1982, his MS +30 in educational foundations from Trinity College of Vermont in 1997, and his educational leadership degree from Sacred Heart University in 2009.
Terino’s move from SHS to JFK, along with the recent promotion of Brian Stranieri to principal, created two openings in the high school administration, and the BOE welcome two new assistant principals, R. Jeffrey Shaw and Richard Aroian.
Jeff Shaw (Courtesy of Southington Schools)
Shaw has been working for Southington Public Schools since 1990, has been a K-12 Music Specialist since 2005 and was the music curriculum chairman from 2002 to 2005. During his time in the Southington music department, Shaw has been responsible for developing and mapping the music curriculum, aligning all grades based on national and state standards, and overseeing staff evaluations and professional development for eleven schools.
Shaw has been the Director of Instrumental Music at SHS since 1990, where he has served as the director of the orchestra, wind ensemble, marching band and jazz ensemble, directing a total of more than 200 students.
In addition to maintaining the school district calendar for all music events, and developing an annual music budget for all music programs, Shaw has served as a coach for little league, American Legion Post 72 junior and senior league baseball teams, and Southington Youth Basketball.
Shaw received his Sixth Year Program degree from CCSU in 2012, following a master of arts in education for curriculum and instruction from the University of Connecticut (UConn) in 1992 and a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from UConn in 1982. He is a member of the American School Band Directors Association, Phi Beta Mu Honorary Music Educators Fraternity, Music Educators National Conference and Connecticut Music Educators Association.
Richard Arioan began his twenty-nine-year teaching career in Southington after receiving his Bachelor of Arts in History from UConn in 1986, a master’s degree in elementary education from CCSU in 1993 and his Seventh Year 092 administrative certification from CCSU in 2014.
Rich Aroian (File photo, 2014 Class LL softball championship game)
Aroian was a 10-year team leader and a curriculum area specialist for the Social Studies Department at DePaolo Middle School. He served as the Social Studies assistant chairperson and as an administrative intern at SHS where he has taught world history, international relations, and American culture since 2004, after teaching geography and American history at DePaolo since 1986.
Since 1986 Aroian has been active in the Southington athletic department. He coached soccer at DePaolo from 1986 to 2005, when he began coaching girls’ soccer at SHS and has been a softball coach at SHS since 1990.
Aroian is a member of the Connecticut High School Coaches Association, the National Council for History Education and Bill of Rights Institute, and the CT Education Association.
During his time at DePaolo and SHS he has planned and executed professional development days for the social studies teachers and supervised social studies lesson plan development. He served as the co-chair of the vertical alignment committee, developed a new teacher orientation program and developed school-wide argumentative and expository writing rubrics.
The Southington Board of Education appointed Terino, Shaw, and Aroian to fill the vacant positions last week, when they were welcomed by the board and Superintendent Connellan as the town’s newest principals.
The 2015 Mary Our Queen Our Lady’s Guild Catholic High School Scholarships were to Swathi Jacob and Charles Panke at the organization’s May meeting held at Mary Our Queen Hall. Swathi will be attending Sacred Heart Academy in Hamden and Charles will be attending St. Paul Catholic High School in Bristol. From left, Charles Panke, Fr. A. Waine Kargul, Robin Taillie, Patricia Trenchard, Swathi Jacob, and Fr. Ed Przygocki.
