SeDoMoCha recognizes Student in the Spotlight honorees
DOVER-FOXCROFT — Perseverance was the trait recognized during the month of March for the SeDoMoCha School’s Students in the Spotlight honorees.
On March 31 teachers spoke to the student body and family members about perseverance during the Student in the Spotlight assembly.
The March honorees are kindergarten: Elliana Adams, grade 1: Benjamin Adams, grade 2: Madison Arcaro, grade 3: Colton Wing, grade 4: Kassidy Perkins, elementary unified arts: Gia Ziegra, grade 5: Eizley Martin, grade 6: Grason MacFarlane, grade 7: Alice Hutchinson, grade 8: Charlie Johnston and middle school unified arts: Landon Cyr.
STUDENTS IN THE SPOTLIGHT — The sixth group of Student in the Spotlight honorees at the SeDoMoCha School in Dover-Foxcroft for the 2024-25 academic year were recognized during a March 31 assembly. Front, from left, kindergarten: Elliana Adams, grade 1: Benjamin Adams, grade 2: Madison Arcaro, grade 3: Colton Wing and elementary unified arts: Gia Ziegra. Back, grade 4: Kassidy Perkins, grade 5: Eizley Martin, grade 6: Grason MacFarlane, grade 7: Alice Hutchinson, grade 8: Charlie Johnston and middle school unified arts: Landon Cyr.
Grade 3 teacher Diane Stephen described perseverance as being, “The bridge between your dreams and reality. It’s the fuel that will power you through challenges, and the light that will guide you through the darkest days.”
She continued, “All of us know that life as a student can sometimes feel like climbing a mountain. The path is steep, the challenges are daunting and at times, it might seem like every step forward is met with two steps back. But I’m here to tell you that it’s not how hard the mountain to climb is that matters, but the attitude with which you tackle it. Perseverance is not just about pushing through the tough times; it’s about maintaining a belief in yourself even when the going gets tough. When you believe in yourself, you unlock the door to endless possibilities.”
Stephen encouraged students to, “Embrace the struggle, seek help when you need it, and don’t hesitate to turn to your teachers and peers for support. This journey is not meant to be walked alone.”
Grade 1 teacher Nicole Killam encouraged students to “keep a positive mindset, even when facing challenges,” sharing that the student being recognized for her grade, “consistently puts in effort and keeps a positive mindset, even when things are hard.”
STAFF IN THE SPOTLIGHT — Grade 7 science teacher Kendrah Fisher is the March Staff in the Spotlight honoree.
Grade 5 teacher Heidi Hall, shared that for a student to persevere, “It takes internal motivation to want to learn more and be better for yourself, not for your parents or teachers” and shared of their recognized student, “This student has faced challenges head-on, never backing down and always giving her very best.”
Grade 6 teacher Alexis Dumont shared the selected student, “Recognizes the challenges that have presented themselves along his path; yet in the face of this adversity, he continues to find ways to show his resilience and perseverance.”
Grade 7 teacher Lance Timberlake, described perseverance as being “not just about talent or achievement, it is about resilience, determination and the ability to rise above challenges with unwavering dedication.” Of the student his team was recognizing, he shared, “Today, we celebrate a student whose commitment to growth and learning has been nothing short of inspiring. Through obstacles that may have discouraged others, she has shown remarkable strength, pushing forward with courage and determination, using these challenges as fuel to keep striving for success.”
Grade 8 teacher Chris Miller said, “Despite encountering challenges or setbacks, demonstrating a persistent attitude and willingness to try again through all difficulties. It’s the ability to power through, continuing forward without giving up” before sharing that their selected student has struggled with health, learning and sensory needs all of his life but still works hard daily to overcome his challenges.
Physical education teacher Jenn Savage reminded students that “Success comes from persistence, not perfection.”
As one teacher shared, these students’ strength, dedication and strong spirits remind us that “Perseverance is not just about reaching the finish line, the journey is just as important.”
Principal Cameron Archer recognized grade 7 science teacher Kendrah Fisher as the Staff in the Spotlight honoree for demonstrating the art of thoughtful questioning.
Other March staff nominees were Ashley Pillsbury (middle school art teacher), Janeane Chase (elementary Title 1 literacy interventionist) and Erica Lavallee (pre-Kindergarten teacher).