‘Unsung Hero’ At West Orange High School Inspires Community

WEST ORANGE, NJ — A local student recently earned a well-deserved tip of the hat as an “unsung hero” of West Orange High School.

The Essex County School Boards Association (ECSBA) is shining a well-deserved spotlight on some humble-yet-inspiring young people as part of its 2024 Unsung Heroes awards, which were done in partnership with the New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA).

The annual recognition ceremony – now in its eighth year – pays tribute to students who might not always be in the spotlight, but whose presence is a “beacon of inspiration and strength.”

“These students have demonstrated exceptional character through overcoming adversity, providing quiet leadership, and achieving personal and academic success against the odds,” the association says.

This year’s honorees include Alicia Germain of West Orange High School.

According to a testimonial shared by the ECSBA, Germain has succeeded academically, participating heavily in volunteerism and extracurricular activities, and later getting elected as student council president at the high school. Germain also was one of the driving forces behind the newly-formed intergenerational reading program.

“It is our pleasure to pay tribute to these extraordinary students who have inspired us, brought joy and hope to our schools, helped guide other students, and taught us all the most important lessons in life –the importance of determination, courage, kindness and perseverance,” NJSBA executive director Timothy Purnell said.

“These students embody the spirit of resilience and dedication that often goes unnoticed,” agreed Reginald Bledsoe, president of the Essex County School Boards Association.

“Their stories are not just inspiring; they are a testament to the power of tenacity, kindness, and hard work,” Bledsoe added. “They are the unsung heroes who make our schools a better place daily.”

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