Rotary Honors Middle School Students

The Newtown Rotary honored three Newtown Middle School students for their outstanding contributions to community service in Newtown. Tony Salvatore, assistant principal of the middle school, introduced the students and certificates of appreciation were given out by Newtown Rotary President Scott Senete to sixth grader Michelle Plunkett, seventh grader Erica Sampson, and eighth grader Kaelyn Eckenrode.

Michelle Plunkett, grade six, was selected because she is a good citizen, extending herself to help others in everyday ways. She is a fine student who is willing to work with others inside and outside the classroom, according to the Rotary Club.

Michelle enjoys art and has begun taking private art lessons this year. She has played soccer for six years and is a student ambassador, member of the school math team, and shares her knowledge with other math team members.

Erica Sampson was chosen for the Rotary Club Student Award  from grade seven. She is an artist who designed the winning cover for the winter concert programs. She has also accepted a position as a participant in the district-wide social studies department curriculum meetings.

Cluster 8D teachers nominated Kaelyn Eckenrode, grade 8, noting that she is a very dynamic young woman and is a role model for peers and adults alike. Kaelyn’s selfless nature, coupled with her mature sense of responsibility, lead her to be a conscientious student. She is a unique, wonderful person who strives to exceed standards to better herself, her education, and those around her. Throughout the course of this year, her teachers have noted that she has emerged as a leader while extending herself to classmates, offering assistance, confidence, and support. A self-motivated, self-directed leader, Kaelyn’s willing to take the right steps to perfect all that she does. She not only works hard but does so with a contagious energy and great smiles. Kaelyn is a delight to work with and clearly exudes the confidence and character of a Rotary Scholar, her teachers said.

Kaelyn loves to travel and is going to London for her birthday in February. She is interested in art, the environment, conservation, music (has played in the band since the fifth grade), and feels each person is unique and that “you should be yourself.”