SeDoMoCha recognizes Student in the Spotlight honorees

DOVER-FOXCROFT — SeDoMoCha’s second Student in the Spotlight assembly was held on Tuesday, Nov. 26. One student from each grade and two from unified arts classes were recognized by their teachers for showing “honesty and integrity.”

Teachers from each grade level spoke about each student to the student body, other staff members, and invited parents/family members. Elementary teachers described recognized students as ones who always admit to their mistakes; even when it would be easier to not take responsibility and always do the right thing, even when others aren’t looking. One teacher shared that exhibiting honesty and integrity takes bravery and courage.

Middle school teacher Lance Timberlake shared with the attendees, “Today we celebrate two of the most essential values in both our personal and academic lives: honesty and integrity. In a world where shortcuts and compromises can sometimes seem tempting, the students we recognize today remind us of the importance of staying true to our principles, no matter the circumstances. Honesty and integrity are not just ideals we aspire to; they are the foundation upon which trust is built. Trust is the currency of every relationship within the school community. Without it, nothing can truly thrive. And so, it is only fitting that we take a moment to recognize and celebrate those among us who exemplify these values in their everyday actions. To be honest means to speak the truth, even when it is difficult. It means being transparent and honest, even when the easiest path might be to conceal or lie.  Integrity, at its core, is about doing the right thing especially when no one is watching. It is about pairing your actions with your values, and standing firm even when faced with challenges.”

All recognized students received certificates to honor their commitment to honesty and integrity.

Vice Principal Davan Walker took this opportunity to recognize four staff members selected by RSU 68 administrators, who exhibit resilience on a daily basis. Resilience is the ability to adapt to set backs, stressors, change and adversity.

The staff members recognized were grade teacher 3 Ashlee Johnson, middle school special education teacher Emily Chambers, grade 5-6 special education ed tech Judy Pickard, and SeDoMoCha Librarian Carolyn Clark with Clark being the overall winner.

Walker shared with the students, staff and visitors, “We are proud to recognize a truly exceptional staff member who has been with us at SeDoMoCha for over 20 years. In that time, as we all know, life brings its fair share of challenges and stressors. Yet, this staff member has faced them head-on with remarkable strength and perseverance. Whether it’s navigating through two hip replacements or supporting family members through difficult medical situations, she has continued to push forward without ever giving up. Mrs. Clark truly embodies one of my favorite sayings, ‘When the going gets tough, the tough get going!’ I encourage all of you to notice the incredible determination with which she shows up each day, continuing to work through adversity with grace and dedication. Mrs. Carolyn Clark is one of the strongest and most resilient individuals we have here at SeDoMoCha, and it is with great pride that we honor her with the Staff in the Spotlight award for Resiliency. Congratulations, Mrs. Clark — thank you for being such an inspiring force in our school community!”

All four nominees receive a personalized parking spot for the next month.