Wooster School 7th Grade Outstanding Citizenship Recognition: Spencer Boden

Written by Middle School Dean of Students, Peter Lingenheld

In our 7th grade honoree, we see again (as we always do) that qualities of kindness and thoughtfulness toward others are noticed and appreciated. We see also the degree to which things like courtesy, politeness, and friendliness toward classmates accumulate over time, increasing the influence and visibility of students that practice these traits on a regular basis. In all of these factors, this young man has demonstrated significant and notable growth as this school year has progressed. As is true with many middle school students, and as is always wonderful to see, the seasoning of another year in middle school has increased, not decreased, the amount of diligence, maturity, self-awareness, and awareness of others that he brings to school each morning.

He has found a way to navigate this year, never the loudest kid in the classroom or hallway (okay, rarely the loudest kid in the classroom or hallway), becoming increasingly apparent and appreciated for doing little things that make a difference. He has received good slips for things like helping clean up messes that he didn’t make, which is a tried and true symbol of the idea of self-help and shows awareness of the needs of the group ahead of the needs of one’s self. Connecting to self-help, this time in Jobs, again I see the theme of growing maturity in his ownership of that aspect of school life. Said his job captain most recently: “He did an excellent job in the Computer Lab for me this citizenship period. He showed initiative and always did his work thoroughly. Also, he showed great enthusiasm and effort. His strengths included getting here on time and his work ethic. Great job, thanks!”

He is described as “understated” by teachers, a characteristic that is commonly mentioned by teachers when it comes to citizenship. Understated, to me, suggesting the habit of meeting and exceeding expectations without ever acting in a way that counters the progress of a group. His teachers additionally describe things like consideration for others’ feelings as being evident in the way he treats his peers. In the ‘lemonade out of lemons’ department, when injured and unable to participate in sports, he spent several periods cleaning and organizing upstairs classrooms. This is sounding like a classmate we’d all like to have.

His advisor shares “Unfortunately, I only spend time with him during lunch and Friday Advisory, but I am sure he is as terrific in his academics as he is in our group. It has been a true joy getting to know him through this school year. He brings a smile to and through our door, along with great enthusiasm each morning. He is a kind and caring student who is always willing to participate and share his great ideas for advisory activities. The enthusiasm he shows for our Advisory, and in general, energizes our whole group. He is certainly deserving of this recognition! Congratulations!”

Another teacher shares, “As a student, he is very understated, always does what is expected, asks for guidance when needed and follows through. His confidence is much greater than it used to be. He has come such a long way academically, is a friend to all and is willing to help in every way.”

He has earned this recognition, and he has earned the esteem from peers, teachers, Deans, parents, and Marta, that will accompany it. Congratulations, Spencer Boden.

About Wooster School

Wooster School is an independent, co-educational college preparatory day school, serving students from Fairfield and Westchester Counties. Located in Danbury, Connecticut, the School serves students from Pre-K through grade 12. A leader in classroom innovation and teaching, Wooster School is a place where thinking and learning are personal, meaningful, and visible; and where faculty work closely with students in small classes and cohorts to think and communicate critically and creatively. At Wooster, every student participates, every student contributes, and every student learns and develops the necessary skills to be a life-long learner and leader in college and life beyond.

To learn more, visit http://www.woosterschool.org/ or contact Wooster School Admissions at (203) 830-3916.