Employee of the Month
Donna Allen, school counselor, View Ridge Middle School School counselor
Donna Allen, March’s employee of the month, is steadfast, supportive, loving, passionate and the ultimate teammate at View Ridge Middle School, according to a school press release. She stepped up in a time of great need to fill a challenging position and has had a tremendous impact on the school community, the release continued. Allen’s peers remarked on how her strong instructional experience, paired with her knowledge of how to support kids, makes her the perfect fit for the counselor position.
Students of the Month
Emmie Capeloto, preschool, Early Learning Center
Emmie Capeloto is an excellent helper, always lending a hand to her teachers and friends. She is a “ray of sunshine,” and “emanates compassion and kindness for others,” the press release stated. “Emmie has such a big heart! Selfless, caring and hardworking are just a few ways to describe what a great student she is. Emmie consistently puts the best interest of others ahead of her own. She’s a friend to all and offers a helping hand to any student or teacher in need,” her teacher said.
Mae Jones, fourth grade, South Ridge Elementary School
Mae Jones impresses staff each day with her work ethic, resilience and ability to focus. She leads by example, exemplifying patience, kindness and helpfulness to others, the press release stated. Her teachers praised her infectious laughter and willingness to love. She is known for going out of her way to include others in group projects. Jones was noted for her willingness to handle difficult conversations about friendship, and her willingness to find solutions.
Brooklyn Caldwell, fourth grade, Union Ridge Elementary School
Brooklyn Caldwell embodies the “Tater Tot way” at her elementary school, the press release stated. She is known for approaching every task with determination and diligence, bringing a strong work ethic to each challenge. Caldwell never shies away from hard work. Her teacher, Heidi Kennedy, praised her ability to form friendships. “Brooklyn is always on task in music. She is a hard worker who doesn’t let mistakes deter her,” music teacher Wendy Golden said.
Kai Robinson, sixth grade, Sunset Ridge Intermediate School
Kai Robinson is a “delightful student” with a positive attitude and willingness to be involved in class culture, the press release stated. His teachers praised his dedication to learning and great work ethic. He is known for completing his assignments with detail and accuracy. His teachers also noted his thirst for knowledge and how he looks for additional opportunities to learn more. His kindness, respectful attitude and leadership skills led to his nomination for Student of the Month, according to his teachers.
Cameron Branch, seventh grade, View Ridge Middle School
Cameron Branch received honors for his respectful, responsible and resilient characteristics. His teachers say he is a pleasure to have in class, the press release stated. Life skills teacher Simon Tena noted his polite attitude, dedication to his peers and ability to follow rules. He also praised Branch’s ability to engage with learning and dedication to doing his best. “Cameron is a wonderful art student! He works hard in class and enjoys being creative. He works well with his peers and always has a positive attitude. Cameron always has a smile to share with everyone and his positive attitude is contagious,” art teacher Michelle Hankins said.
Natalie Evans, 11th grade, Ridgefield High School
Natalie Evans is one of the few students at Ridgefield High School willing to take on and lead any task or project with a smile on their face and selfless dedication, expecting nothing in return, according to the press release. Evans is enrolled in three advanced placement classes and consistently demonstrates a hard work ethic. She is the first female at Ridgefield High School to play on the school’s baseball team and coaches the coaches for the Baseball for All program. According to her teachers, Evans is driven by the desire to leave Ridgefield High School better than she found it. This passion not only drives her to excel but also serves as an inspiration to her peers.
Aileen Castillo, 12th grade, Wisdom Ridge Academy
Aileen Castillo has excelled during her time at Wisdom Ridge Academy (WRA), having taken full advantage of the learning opportunities the school provides. Castillo arrived at WRA with only 12.5 of the 18 class credits required to be on track with her peers. With great determination and diligence, she completed two years of school in one summer and one school year, the press release stated. She is on track to graduate this June. In addition to balancing a more-than-full course load, Castillo has found time to learn piano. She also volunteers at South Ridge Elementary School, and she hopes to go into elementary education or the medical field after high school, the press release stated. Castillo lists graduating on time and completing her required courses as her greatest accomplishment to date.
