On Nov. 14, Ridgefield School District officials recognized the November 2023 employee and students of the month at the regular Board of Directors meeting.
Employee of the Month
Ben Eavenson, math paraprofessional at Ridgefield High School
According to a press release, Ben Eavenson comes to work with both joy and enthusiasm and a skillset of knowledge and patience that benefits everyone that comes in contact with him.
“Ben goes above and beyond every day. Ever since he first started and his job description was still being created, he was eager and ready to help,” according to the school district presentation. “Ben has great relationships with students and makes a meaningful difference for those that need it the most. He is always up for whatever the math department needs him to do. For instance, the after-school tutoring program and the testing center are essential programs and would not exist without him. We are proud to call Ben a colleague and friend and think there is no one better for this award.”
Students of the month
Jett Morales, pre-k at the Early Learning Center
According to the press release, Jett Morales stands out as an exceptional individual within the school community. “His kindness knows no bounds, and his willingness to support his fellow students, whether academically or emotionally, is a testament to his outstanding character.” his teacher said in the press release. “Jett is like our class big brother. He’s always watching to see how he can help his peers. He’s responsible for all of his duties and will help his peers with their jobs. He will give up an item if he sees his peer having a hard time. Jett is a super peer in our class!”
Davin Rieger, second grader at South Ridge Elementary School
According to the release, this year, “Davin has consistently demonstrated exemplary behavior and a genuine spirit of kindness and helpfulness. Davin has consistently shown a strong work ethic and a natural curiosity for learning. We have been particularly impressed by his eagerness to participate in class discussions and his ability to help his classmates.”
Novella Francisco, second grader at Union Ridge Elementary School
“Novella is very hard working while in school. She is respectful toward others and always willing to lend a helping hand to her peers,” according to her teacher, Mrs. Sullens. “When things get tough, she shows resilience and maintains a positive attitude toward learning. Novella takes pride in her work and strives to always do her personal best.”
Kaiden Maeda, fifth grader at Wisdom Ridge Academy
According to the press release, Kaiden has thrived since attending Wisdom Ridge. “One of Kaiden’s challenges is working through anxiety, and the small, personal nature of Wisdom Ridge, as well as the support of his WRA teachers and his parents, allows Kaiden to access his educational program and focus on his studies.” According to his teacher Mr. Coulam, Kaiden is “completely on top of his academics, makes every deadline and is always on top of his grades.” When not in school, he enjoys taekwondo, where he has earned a yellow belt.
Claire Warren, sixth grader at Sunset Ridge Intermediate School
According to the press release, Claire is “an extremely hardworking student who will go out of her way to help someone, or to show friendship and kindness when someone is having a hard day. She always gives her best effort and works very hard to be successful.” It went on to say that Claire has a passion for learning and is someone people can depend on to get the job done and do the right thing.
Isabelle Yost, seventh grader at View Ridge Middle School
According to the release, Isabelle is “respectful, considerate, kind, tenacious, focused and very positive. … Isabelle has a natural curiosity and positive outlook that helps her to always see the bright side. She is a great leader, genuine, inquisitive, reflective and thoughtful. She is quick to participate in classroom activities.” People who know Isabelle say that she is a sweet and considerate person, according to the release.
Tula Gervais, 11th grader at Ridgefield High School
According to the release, Tula moved from Costa Rica in the third grade knowing English but was struggling in the different classes. Now an 11th grader, students, staff, teachers, coaches agree that Tula is a model student and athlete, the release stated. She has taken multiple AP classes, has participated in tennis and volleyball and is a member of the National Honor Society. She is also fluent in Spanish and “willingly helps new-to-our-school, non-English speaking students find their way around our campus and to their classes. Since she was once that student, she shows empathy to their situation and ensures they feel welcomed.” In the future, Tula hopes to go to college for business and wants to take over her dad’s marine life research and conservation company in Costa Rica one day, the release stated.
