Despite Challenging Year, CHS Students Shine

They say it’s sometimes easier to bypass being kind and thoughtful to those in our daily lives. If we are confronted with the “'Why should we be kind and thoughtful?' maybe we should ask ourselves instead, “'Why not!'”

So declared Rick Massi, a teacher in the business department at , during the People’s Choice Awards Thursday, held to honor 17 outstanding students. 

Along with Massi, 15 teachers recognized students who distinguished themselves with acts of kindness throughout this school year—one of the more tumultuous years in the school’s history. The school community faced three deaths, including one of a student.

Charmaine McCool, a science teacher, recalled the distraught moods throughout the school in the days after the unexpected death of the freshman. Math teacher Anna Marie Bearint, who was not present, sent an emotional letter recalling her own sadness and grief, read by McCool.

“You clearly knew I was upset and asked if I was OK,” read McCool. “You were someone who was concerned for me. I will always remember your kindness,” as senior Connor McGlashon accepted his award.

On a happier note, Slade Barrett’s act of kindness drew some laughs, as he was commended for donning a furry costume and jumping into the role of Darren the Dare Lion at the recent at Wood Park. Barrett persevered in the full costume on a scorching day that reached nearly 90 degrees.

“And, all you said the next day was ‘Mrs. Hennelly, that costume was so hot, I thought I was going to pass out,’ ” said Kathy Hennelly, a teacher in the business department.

Other honorees' feats ran the gamut.

Senior Napoleon Blamon was singled out for going to and reading to the youngsters.

In befriending a new girl from Los Angeles, senior Liana Newton and junior Lindsay Michalski looked after a transfer student and familiarized her with the school’s clubs, activities and events.

During senior trip, seniors Dan McGann and Owen Vandegrift unquestionably yielded their seats to families with small children on a crowded Disney bus.

Massi acknowledged a student who showed a small act of charity during the school’s annual Valentine exchange.

“This past Valentine’s Day, a thoughtful student gave the balloon he had received during the Valentine exchange to one of the girls in my class, who was upset she didn’t get one,” said Massi, as senior Ben Snodgrass was honored.

For their goodwill, the students received a gift certificate for one of the following local merchants: Brother’s Pizza, Chic-fil-A, Dangelo’s Pizza and Maurizio’s Restaurant, Dredge Harbor Boat Center, Dunkin’ Donuts, Five Guys, Goody’s Pizza, Hathaway’s Restaurant, Laurel Lanes, Mart Soft Pretzel Bakery, McDonald’s, Milanese Pizza, Nelly Bly’s Ice Cream, Paula’s Family Restaurant, Pizza Hut and Route 130 Diner.

The other students honored were: seniors Taylor Arcaini, Kayla Delgado, Ashlyn Emery, Mark Maut and Lauren Palma; juniors Stephen Amoroso, Sherron Howard, Christina Roach; and freshman Jake Barnes.  

“Today is a day when our staff recognizes the small deeds of some special students,” said Frank Goulburn, assistant vice principal. “We are very proud of these kids.”