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Junior and senior high school
students who are often overlooked in traditional awards ceremonies were
recently honored at the 28th Annual Student Recognition Program at
New Brunswick High School. Two of the recipients were from Metuchen High
School, Matthew Nicholas and Nancy Hafez, were celebrated. They attended the evening
with Bruce Peragallo, Principal of Metuchen High School, Superintendent of
Schools Vincent Caputo and proud family members by their sides.
The Middlesex County School
Boards Association, and the Middlesex County Association of School
Administrators sponsored the annual event, recognizing "the unsung heroes who
have not yet captured the headlines."
A variety of factors are used to select
students for the award, including their ability to overcome significant
academic or personal challenges, said Dr. Frank R. Alfano, President of the
Middlesex County Association of School Administrators.
"There are many worthwhile
events recognizing students who excel in academics, athletics, or community
service activities," Dr. Alfano said. "But there is something special about the
quiet strength demonstrated year after year on the part of these students," he
added.
The
Keynote Speaker for the event was Mark Finkelstein, Superintendent of the
Middlesex Regional Educational Services Commission, who chaired the committee
that founded the program in 1985, while serving on the New Brunswick Board of
Education.
During
his speech, Mr. Finkelstein praised the 65 Middlesex County student award
recipients, noting: "Tonight is about recognizing you for your work ethic, your
strength of character, your ability to respond to whatever obstacles life has
thrown your way, and to find the strength to successfully meet those challenges
head on."