SeDoMoCha recognizes Student in the Spotlight honorees

DOVER-FOXCROFT — SeDoMoCha School students are encouraged to SOAR every day. SOAR stands for “Be Safe, Be Organized, Be Accountable, and Be Responsible” in their daily lives. Staff recognized the trait of responsibility for the January Student in the Spotlight honorees.

On Jan. 31 teachers spoke to the student body and family members about the importance of responsibility both in the classroom, at home and in the work force when they are grown up. 

Jeannine Reece, middle school guidance counselor and teacher shared, “Sometimes in the chaos of the middle school world, students that are following the rules, doing their academic work, and generally managing their school life with little fanfare don’t get the recognition they deserve” and continued by emphasizing that “these are the attributes that employers are looking for. They want their employees to show up on time everyday and do the job they were hired to do. We need responsible people at home, at school and at work; and learning how to be responsible starts in childhood” and that “The students being recognized today are already displaying their essential qualities that will serve them well in life.”

Diane Stephens, grade 3 teacher shared, “Some people do not like to take responsibility for mistakes or blame others when things don’t go as planned, but not (these) students. (They) own up to their mistakes and want others to do the same.”

Madison Speed, grade 5 teacher, shared that we had gathered to “recognize students who truly embody responsibility in everything they do. In not just their words, but their actions that consistently show they can be trusted to do what’s right, even when no one is watching.”  

Morgan Whitten, grade 6 teacher, shared that responsible students are, “active learners; always engaged in the lesson, willing to participate and often lend others a helping hand when possible.”

Lance Timberlake, grade 7 teacher shared, “Responsibility isn’t just about completing assignments on time or following the rules. While those are important, responsibility is about being reliable, accountable, and making choices that positively impact others. These students consistently meet their commitments, support their classmates, and take ownership of their actions. Whether it’s turning in work without reminders, being a dependable friend, or stepping up when others need help, they set an example that inspires us all. Being responsible is not always easy. It takes dedication, patience, and a strong sense of character. That’s why it’s so important to recognize and celebrate those who embody this quality.”

Grade 8 teacher Gabrielle Jolin shared that responsible students “are not afraid to ask clarifying questions when they don’t understand something, always abide by deadlines, are always on-task, participate in discussions, do not distract themselves or others and help create a positive vibe for everyone.”

Congratulations to all those who were recognized today and to all SeDoMoCha students who strive to be responsible on a daily basis. 

For the Staff in the Spotlight Principal Cameron Archer took this opportunity to recognize four teachers who go above and beyond in demonstrating creating, innovating, and imagining; not only within their daily preparations and classrooms but also fostering these characteristics in their students on a daily basis. 

These teachers will all be assigned a prime parking spot for the next month. The students nominated by the administrative team for the month of January were David Murray, elementary music teacher and K-8 drama director; Nicole Killiam, grade 1 teacher; Gabriella Jolin, grade 8 ELA teacher; and Emma Shea, SeDoMoCha literacy coach.

The overall winner, who also received a gift certificate, was Shea. Archer shared that Shea “Consistently is going above and beyond to foster an environment where both students and staff are encouraged to think outside the box, take creative risks, and explore new ideas. Whether it’s through designing unique lesson plans, implementing new teaching methods for our staff to try, or encouraging students to express themselves in imaginative ways, (she) brings many fresh and exciting perspectives that inspire both students and colleagues alike. Her passion for learning and commitment to her profession truly makes a difference in our school. Her work ethic is second to none. Her initiative to try something new is always valued and appreciated. And her willingness to promote literacy, learning, and fun all under the same umbrella, is commendable. We thank her, for her dedication to nurturing creativity, innovation, and imagination into our classrooms everyday.”