Davis, Puchalski Receive Superintendent's Award

Several individuals were recognized for their work inside and outside of the classroom at the Dec. 14 Board of Education meeting. The following awards were given out:

Marissa Puchalski - Superintendent's Award

"Marissa Puchalski is a student who has demonstrated really amazing success in her academics, she has shown strong dedication and committment to extra-cirricular activities as well," Viccaro said. "She is a true leader and is just a really, overall, a great kid."

Marissa is a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, girls' soccer and softball teams, Environmental Coginchaug Organization (ECO) and EDGE. She also served on the Durham Middlefield Youth and Family Services board and is a certified referee for youth soccer. She also works closely with horses, including educating others how to ride.

Tyler Davis - Superintendent's Award

"Tyler Davis also has an exemplary academic record. During his four years at Coginchaug High School he has taken a very demanding courseload. He has learned how to manage his time successfully between academics, clubs and athletics," Viccaro said. "He has learned the importance of hardwork, dedication, discipline and most of all, how to be a leader.

Tyler was captain of the Blue Devils football team and boys' tennis team and a member of the National Honor Society. As a member of the Spanish Honor Society Tyler tutors Freshman in the language. He's won several academic awards, including the St. Michael's Book award, while helping seniors in the community while volunteering for the Special Olympics.

Jane Moen - Friends of Education Award

Jane was nominated for the award by Rebecca Sinusas, who wrote:

"In the short time that Jane has been the program coordinator she has implememted incredible programs for the youth in this area. Her passion for students is apparent from the moment you meet her. She starves to create positive experiences and meaningful prohgrams that reach all children."

Jane's accomplishments include creating the Healthy Relationship and Homework Hangout programs at Strong School and she is active in a number of advisory groups, including EDGE.

"She's enthusiastic, excited and always the first person to jump in with great ideas. Her love of her job and the youth in our schools and community definitely make her a friend of education," Viccaro said.

Heather Kannam and Rhonda Riggott-Stevens - Friends of Education Award

The pair produced and directed the "wildly successful, incredibly fun-filled musical" Willy Wonka in the spring, a production that included students from first to eighth grade.

"Every child and parent involved raved about the experience and for many children acting and singing in Willy Wonka was truly a life changing experience. Young singers and thespians throughout Durham and Middlefield and their parents are grateful to Heather Kannam and Rhonda Riggott-Stevens," Viccaro said. "Break a leg!" 

Hope and Bill Lintz - Friends of Education Award

"It always made me smile when I saw the two of you walk into that room because I knew that there was going to be something kind said about what was happening in District 13," Viccaro said while presenting the award to Hope Linzt.

The award recognizes individuals who've made outstanding contributions to public education and District 13 who are not employees of the district.

"I just wish Bill was here, I'm sure he's smiling down," Hope said of her late husband. At the end of the meeting, as had become Bill's tradition, Hope made the motion to adjourn the meeting.