SeDoMoCha recognizes Student in the Spotlight honorees
DOVER-FOXCROFT — Empathy and kindness were the traits recognized during the month of February for the SeDoMoCha School’s Students in the Spotlight honorees, with humor being the trait recognized for staff members.
On Feb. 28 teachers spoke to the student body and family members about empathy and kindness during the Student in the Spotlight assembly.
STUDENTS IN THE SPOTLIGHT — The fifth group of Student in the Spotlight honorees at the SeDoMoCha School in Dover-Foxcroft for the 2024-25 academic year were recognized during a Feb. 28 assembly. Front, from left, kindergarten: Brianna Thompson, grade 1: Orrin Roberts, grade 2: Bradlee Adams, elementary unified arts: Callie Cleaves and grade 6 teacher Jeff Dale. Back, grade 4: Aluna Youngblood, grade 5: Gracey Gaylord, grade 6: Glenna Brochu, grade 7: Sophie Dyer, grade 8: Chyanne Towner and middle school unified arts: Hannah Healey.
The February honorees are kindergarten: Brianna Thompson, grade 1: Orrin Roberts, grade 2: Bradlee Adams, grade 4: Aluna Youngblood, elementary unified arts: Callie Cleaves, grade 5: Gracey Gaylord, grade 6: Glenna Brochu, grade 7: Sophie Dyer, grade 8: Chyanne Towner and middle school unified arts: Hannah Healey.
“Empathy is not necessarily a trait that comes naturally to middle schoolers,” Grade 6 science teacher Jeff Dale shared with the audience. “During a time where developing your own sense of self and figuring out just who you are and where you stand is the primary focus, it’s no wonder why so many young people have difficulty being able to truly understand the thoughts and feelings of others. Now, that’s not to suggest that we all couldn’t benefit from showing a little more kindness and understanding on a day to day basis. However, being aware of this makes it all the more remarkable when we encounter those students who do have a natural sense of empathy and have an innate ability to put themselves in the shoes of others, and who seem to routinely take the opportunity to show kindness.
Assistant Principal Davan Walker said the administrative team is highlighting the power of humor, a quality that brings positivity, engagement and support to our school community. Humor plays a vital role in creating an environment where both students and staff feel connected, motivated and resilient.
The February staff nominees were grade 4 teacher Karin Trubic, grade 7 English/language arts teacher Tiffany Dever, day treatment ed tech Matt Cole and Dale.
“Each of these individuals brings laughter and joy to our school every day, and we are incredibly grateful for their contributions!,” Walker said. “Our Staff Spotlight winner this month, Mr. Dale, is someone who keeps us all smiling. His ability to find and balance humor in everyday challenges helps create a positive and supportive atmosphere, making SeDoMoCha a wonderful place to learn and work. His lighthearted spirit and unwavering positivity contribute to a school culture where both students and staff thrive. Thank you Mr. Dale for making our days brighter and our school stronger.