MIDDLETOWN, Conn. — Two eighth-grade students from Middletown have been awarded the student Leadership Award from the state’s Association of Boards of Education, according to a release on Wednesday from Middletown Public Schools.
Liliana DeMerchant and Mason Belair earned the honor, which recognizes their exceptional leadership qualities and contributions to their school’s community. Beman Middle School Principal Raymond Byron nominated DeMerchant and Belair, the release said.
Both students have displayed a willingness to take on challenges, make difficult decisions and work together with others, according to the release. DeMerchant and Belair were honored at the Middletown Board of Education’s meeting on May 14.
Dr. Alberto Vázquez Matos, superintendent of the Middletown school district, said he was proud of both students for earning the CABE Student Leadership Award.
“Their dedication to their studies, extracurricular activities and community service is inspiring,” Matos said, in the release. “They exemplify the qualities of outstanding leaders, and their achievements reflect the supportive and nurturing environment here in Middletown Public Schools.”
DeMerchant is the president of the Beman Middle School Student Council and a member of the Principal’s Advisory Board, the release said, noting that she “embodies the essence of a student leader.”
The release said DeMerchant excels in communication, collaboration and diplomacy and is dedicated to developing her leadership style, which is evident through her involvement in different school activities and sports. DeMerchant was recently inducted to the TriM Music Honor Society and has a passion for self-improvement and helping others reach their potential, according to the release.
Belair is the vice president of the Beman Middle School Student Council. The release said he began his journey in leadership at Spencer Elementary School, where he was frequently named the Student of the Month. Since sixth-grade, Belair has consistently achieved high honors. His extracurricular activities include participation in the school news club, the jazz band and the Tri-M Music Honor Society.
“Mason’s dedication to being a positive role model is evident in both his academic achievements and extracurricular involvement,” the release said.
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Dalton Zbierski is a digital content producer and writer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at dzbierski@FOX61.com.
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