Joshua Smith, Superintendent of Region 15 Schools, named six students as the recipients of the Western Connecticut Superintendents Association (WCSA) award, sponsored by the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents.
Students were selected for their demonstration of outstanding leadership, citizenship, academic performance, participation in community service and extracurricular activities. Students from each member school across Western Connecticut were selected to represent their district.
The following students were selected from Region 15 as the WCSA Award Recipients: Erin Flanagan and Hunter Curcuruto from PHS; Rylen Brennan and Claudia Burrus from MMS; and Teniola Arole and Emelia Luis from RMS.
Pomperaug High School
Erin Flanagan
Erin is a well-rounded student who is involved in many clubs and organizations while also being a leader in our athletics program. She is a committed friend and role model for all of those around her. Her academic success is evident in her dedication to being involved in so many areas of our school while maintaining a highly rigorous course load. We know that she will continue to succeed as she moves forward in life.
Hunter Curcuruto
Hunter’s career at Pomperaug has been one of excellence both in and out of the classroom. Academically, Hunter has enjoyed total involvement at school by participating in a variety of activities while maintaining his enthusiasm with academics and athletics. This committed attitude helps drive him forward in continuing to find success and we know that he will continue to excel with this sense of dedication in all he does in the future.
Rochambeau Middle School
Teniola Arole
Teniola is a spectacular student at Rochambeau Middle School. She is diligent in her studies, excels at academics, and extends her talents as a member of the Math Counts team. Teni demonstrates leadership to the school community by participating in Student Council and supporting activities that promote a positive school climate. As a talented musician, Teni is actively involved in Tri M, Band, and Jazz Band. As an athlete, she has been a strong runner for our Cross-Country team and has enjoyed Volleyball intramurals. Teni volunteers her time to support the RMS and the greater Southbury community. She is a member of Southbury Juniorettes and participates in her church’s youth group. Teni has been awarded the RMSPride Spotlight recognition by her teachers each year. Teni’s interests are extensive. She writes calligraphy, her artwork was selected for the Summer Reading list cover, and codes mini-games through WhiteHatJr.
Emelia Luis
Emelia is an outstanding student at Rochambeau Middle School. Her strong work ethic helps her consistently excel in the academic setting. Emelia is an active member of our school community. She was accepted into the Tri-M music program and plays the clarinet in band and Jazz band. Emelia has a passion for supporting others. She extends her kindness to younger students and others in need. She is actively involved in community groups to organize and support food drives, book drives, and clothing drives. Emelia is a respectful and responsible student who is committed to being a positive role model for others.
Memorial Middle School
Rylen Brennan
Rylen is a thoughtful and conscientious student who excels academically. He is involved at the school level as a member of our Basketball and Cross-Country teams. Rylen is a member of the Volleyball club and a leader of our Mustang Ally group. In his community, he is actively involved in NEVBC Boys Volleyball, religious education in his church, and a member of the Pomperaug Travel Basketball team. Rylen also finds time to assist others through his work on an annual toy drive. He is a well-rounded student who thinks of others.
Claudia Burrus
Claudia is a young woman who is involved not only in school but also in her community through both active participation and leadership. She achieves high academically while leading in her role as the captain of the Softball Team. She is a member of the basketball and field hockey teams, as well as the volleyball club. Additionally, Claudia is actively involved in our chorus for three years and as a leader on our Student Government. In the greater community, she is involved in three different sports: softball, lacrosse, and basketball. Claudia’s involvement is not limited to participation and leadership at the school level, she has also been actively involved in many community fundraising events. Claudia is a well-rounded and caring individual.
Photo L-R: Joshua Smith, Superintendent Region 15 Schools, Rylen Brennan, Claudia Burrus, Emelia Luis, Teniola Arole, Hunter Curcuruto and Erin Flanagan.