Staples Students Receive Connecticut Bar Association Civics Award

WESTPORT, CT — Two Staples High School students were selected as 2026 winners of the Connecticut Bar Association’s Ralph J. Monaco Memorial Award for excellence in civics education and civic engagement, the school announced.

Elijah Falkenstein and Zander Bauer were recognized at the CBA’s Annual Law Day Ceremony on Thursday at the Connecticut Appellate Court in Hartford. Each student received a $1,000 monetary grant as part of the award.

The Ralph J. Monaco Memorial Civics Education Award is presented annually to one or more current Connecticut high school students who have demonstrated a significant commitment to advancing civic engagement, civics education, and or the rule of law, according to Westport officials. The award honors Ralph J. Monaco, the 87th president of the Connecticut Bar Association, and recognizes his service to the legal profession, leadership, and support for civics education.

Superintendent Thomas Scarice praised the students' achievement.

"We are incredibly proud of Elijah and Zander for earning this
well-deserved recognition," Scarice said. "Their achievement reflects the best of Staples High School: students who think deeply, engage with the world around them, and understand the importance of civic responsibility. We are grateful to the Connecticut Bar Association for honoring their work and commitment."

The Connecticut Bar Association’s Law Day Ceremony celebrates the role of law in society and encourages students to develop a deeper understanding of the legal profession, civic life, and the responsibilities of citizenship, according to the district. The recognition places Falkenstein and Bauer among Connecticut students honored for their work in civic learning and engagement.