Email
Print
American Renaissance Middle School students earn extra credit from city
ADVERTISEMENT
Published: June 5, 2009
American Renaissance Middle School students are heavily involved in their community.
They can often be seen tutoring elementary students or picking up trash on the sidewalks.
Members of the community have noticed and recognized the students for their dedication and commitment to downtown Statesville.
The school was awarded the "Downtown Shining Star Award," presented by Downtown Statesville Development Corporation Board of Directors and Mayor Costi Kutteh.
"It's acknowledgment of their contribution," Chairperson Arnold Watt said.
The award was presented to Assistant Principal Jim Duffey, during the student's morning meeting.
This is the second year for the award and ARMS is the first school to receive the honor. The award is presented to individuals who make a difference in downtown.
Their community involvement is a constant in their school lives.
Students have participated in a a significant number of community activities this year. Their work has spanned from assisting in blood drives, donating to local nonprofits, picking up trash on the sidewalk and in parks, to participating in activities with local elementary schools.
Student Danielle Papandrea,14, said every student has a chance to help out in the community and clean up. Its a opportunity they all take advantage of.
"It feels good that all of our hard work is being recognized," she said. "We put a lot of effort into helping the community so it feels well deserved."
Ashton Consalvo, 12, said the students love being part of the community and helping where they can. In the past several days they've done more than most community members can do in a span of years.
They've done yard work and organized a summer camp at a local church, cleaned Life Span Circle School, cleaned a local cemetery, and more, she said.
"It feels good because we've worked hard," Ashton said.
Duffey said promoting community service and involvement has long been part of the schools mission. Students are involved in the community to show adolescents can be productive citizens.
Duffey said they are proud of the student's hard work.
"We want our kids to understand they're part of this downtown community and have an obligation to the community," he said.
Email
Print
ADVERTISEMENT
Advertisement
