TALLMANSVILLE – Upshur County Board of Education members recently learned about the shining Upshur Stars that make Washington District Elementary School bright during their regular BOE meeting Tuesday, Oct. 26.
Dr. Sara Lewis Stankus, superintendent of Upshur County Schools, presented each recipient with their Upshur Star while WDES Principal Gabrielle Rhodes shared what made each nominee a bright spot in the school.
First, Rhodes introduced Wade Currence, who she said shows excitement for learning and exploring every day.
“Even during the worst days of school when pre-K students feel homesick and miss their parents, Wade helps others by telling them they can do this,” Rhodes said. “He says he knows Mommy will pick him up at the end of the day. He makes friends easily and loves trying out new things in the classroom. Wade’s laughter and enthusiasm is wonderful to see and hear. Congratulations, Wade.”
The next Upshur Star was presented to Bryson Herron, who was described as a PAX Leader who makes others feel important.
“We do several partner activities each day, and Bryson is sure to look at and listen to his partner each time,” Rhodes said. “This is important to understanding peers and sharing what peers are thinking.”
Blake Tenney received an Upshur Star next for his ‘willingness to try even when something is difficult for him.’
“He is a PAX Leader who perseveres in challenges,” Rhodes said. “He is a good role model for his classmates and shows them they can do their things.”
Rhodes introduced kindergarten student Adelynn Tenney next and presented her with an Upshur Star. Rhodes said Adelynn is an eager learner.
“She soaks in all that she hears and sees and then applies that to what she needs to do,” Rhodes said. “This PAX Leader will try and try again with a positive attitude and a smile on her face. She gets excited when she accomplishes something new, which inspires her classmates. Congratulations, Adelynn.”
Wesley Hoover was recognized and received an Upshur Star. He was nominated by his physical education instructor who said Wesley showed ‘great improvement in PE Class.’
“He has been a PAX Leader for showing respect and following directions,” Rhodes said of Wesley.
Rhodes introduced Harper Smith who was described as eager, excited and enthusiastic – the epitome of a PAX Leader and of a model student at Washington District Elementary School. Harper received an Upshur Star from Stankus. Her PE teacher wrote it is an ‘honor and a privilege to have Harper as a student.’
The next Upshur Star went to Indie Garrison because of her love for art classes. Rhodes said Indie is a good student.
“She always participates and is attentive in class,” Rhodes said. “She always tries really hard to make her artwork the best.”
An Upshur Star was presented to Chase Leigh who was described by Rhodes as someone who is ‘always kind and just loves school.’
“Chase says that everyday and he loves to come every day,” Rhodes said. “He runs and skips into the doorway to the school. Chase is happy and spreads that happiness to teachers and students alike.”
Next in the spotlight and selected to receive an Upshur Star was Bryar Kelley.
“Bryar always does what he is asked to do,” Rhodes read. “He is an example of a great PAX Leader. He is a great friend to everyone and always tries his best and is kind to others always.”
WDES student Jase Tenney received an Upshur Star for being a motivated learner.
“Jase is ready to learn new things,” Rhodes read. “Jase’s curiosity about how words are spelled sparks a new love for reading. Jase – we hope you never lose this love for learning.”
Next, Rhodes introduced Ariel Glasser who was described as ‘a great addition in the art classes.’ Ariel received an Upshur Star from Stankus.
“Ariel comes to school prepared and ready to learn,” Rhodes read. “She takes pride in everything that is asked of her, and Ariel always continues to be a role model for everyone in Washington District Elementary School.”
Finally, Octavian Bouscher received an Upshur Star.
“Octavian is a wonderful addition to the classroom,” Rhodes read. “Octavian excels in math and really shows a love for learning every day. He is a PAX Leader who keeps the peace and is a friend to everyone.”
The next regular meeting of the Upshur County Board of Education is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 16 at Buckhannon-Upshur High School. Community members are invited to a public informational session about the proposed new comprehensive career-technical high school and renovated middle school that will begin at 5 p.m., directly before the regular BOE meeting.
