Leonardo Monzon of Lehigh Acres is a fifth grade student at Harns Marsh Elementary School. Harns Marsh Elementary School, school resource officer, Deputy Christine Zumbrum wrote “the staff at Harns Marsh Elementary School expressed that Leo Monzon would be an excellent student to nominate for the “Do The Right Thing” program. Staff member Mrs. Woosley praised Leo for his willingness to help kindergarten students the first couple of weeks ensuring they boarded the correct bus during parent pick up. Leo’s teacher, Ms. Stafford described Leo as a wonderful student as he eagerly completes his work so he can help other students whom are struggling. Ms. Stafford also described Leo as a great leader in his small group when it is time for student led centers. Ms. Stafford’s class discussed the quote “be a LEADER, not a BOSS” and she said Leo exemplifies the quote perfectly!”
Nathan Lorenzo Lee of Lehigh Acres is a second grade student at Harns Marsh Elementary School. Harns Marsh Elementary School, school resource officer, Deputy Christine Zumbrum wrote that “several of the staff of Harns Marsh Elementary School felt that Nathan Lee deserved to be nominated for the Do The Right Thing Program. Nathan’s teacher, Mrs. Hearn, expressed that Nathan was deserving of an award, as he is ‘an amazing helper in her classroom.’ When I spoke with Nathan, he said when he finishes his work, like math, even though it is not his favorite subject, he still likes to help other students who may be having a difficult time. Several staff members who assist during parent pick up time advised that Nathan also deserved a nomination as he shows genuine concern to help younger students by being alert and listening for their names to be called to ensure they get to the correct location. Even at his young age, Nathan has proven himself to be responsible, helpful, and a role model to other students.”
Alberth Nicholas-Morales of Lehigh Acres is a fourth grade student at Sunshine Elementary School. Sunshine Elementary School, fourth grade teacher Ronda Martin wrote “I teach a small group of monolingual students during an intervention block. Alberth, who does speak and read limited English, goes above and beyond to help me and his classmates. He often translates simple sentences and questions to the students on my behalf. He is always willing to step in whenever necessary to ensure others succeed. He is invaluable to the class.”
Maria Vazquez of Lehigh Acres is a third grade student at Sunshine Elementary School. Sunshine Elementary School, third grade teacher Theresa Thomas wrote, “Maria is a compassionate and caring student. She displays excellent self-control at all times. Her kindness towards her peers is amazing. When her clasmates choose to be sneaky or cunning, Maria chooses to have integrity. She has a beautiful heart and I feel that she is loyal and forthright. I am sure her parents are quite proud of her high morals and standards.”
Josiah Crespo of Lehigh Acres is a second grade student at Sunshine Elementary School. Sunshine Elementary School, second grade teacher Leah Jorgensen wrote “Josiah Came up to me during breakfast time to ask a question. He said ‘my mom made me a peanut butter sandwich because they are my favorite. I would really like to eat it for breakfast. Does anyone in class have an allergy?’ Josiah recently joined our class so he did not know. He showed responsibility in asking before he ate his peanut butter sandwich.” He actions reflected a deep concern for others.
Mia Rogue of Lehigh Acres is a third grade student at Tortuga Preserve Elementary School. Tortuga Preserve Elementary School, third grade teacher Amy Putnam wrote “in our class we have a student that is learning the English language. Mia took it upon herself to help our friend read. Mia, would read to him, help him sound out words, and ask him questions. Mia has a kind heart and it showed during her engagement with our friend.”
The following two students will be honored together: Jaden Davis resides in Lehigh Acres. Yaneli Francisco-Lopez resides in Tice. Both are fifth grade student at Manatee Elementary School. Manatee Elementary School, fifth grade teacher Natalie Baker wrote about two separate acts that these two students committed that demonstrated kindness and concern towards their fellow students. She witnessed that “as Jayden was in line attempting to buy a Smencil writing instrument, a kindergarten student, in front of him, was also attempting to buy one – but they only had four cents. Jayden became aware of this dilemma and piped up and offered to buy one for her with his extra dollar.” How thoughtful was that! Teacher Natalie Baker wrote that “Yaneli knew that a student’s birthday was coming up and the student was not going to be able to bring in a treat to share. Yaneli surprised the class and the birthday student with donuts for the class!” How thoughtful was that.
Cheyanne Barrett of Lehigh Acres is a seventh grade student at Varsity Lakes Middle School. Treeline Elementary School, music teacher Nadia Arnsworth wrote “I have known Cheyanne Barrett since she was in kindergarten. I had the privilege of teaching her music throughout her elementary school years. I have seen her grow into a beautiful, kind, and thoughtful young woman. She is an eloquent speaker and a delight with which to debate. I have gotten to see Cheyanne make it all the way through a crowning process for her Stars group at her church. This is an impressive achievement involving Bible research, knowledge and memorization. As part of the crowning event she had to create a film of her accomplishments and explain in the video why she felt it was so important to have self-confidence. I was impressed by her willingness to be brave and express herself in a video that a room full of adults and other peers would be watching. I have on many occasions seen her leadership qualities and most recently had the wonderful good fortune hear a sermon that she delivered in a competition of youth at her church. She spoke about facing one’s fears through prayer and used an example of how she to help calm down a teacher in a scary situation on campus, when she was in kindergarten, using prayer and faith. Two years ago when a beloved police officer was killed in the line of duty, Cheyanne went down to the police station to volunteer to help tie and pin thousands of ribbons for the pending funeral. She knows the importance of helping out wherever needed. I hope that she becomes a role model for my six year old daughter in the future. I know Cheyanne is very deserving of this Award.”
Gunner Steel Bowser of Lehigh Acres, is a sophomore at Lehigh Senior High School. Lehigh Senior High School, school resource officer, Deputy Luis Carrillo wrote “Gunner Steel Bowser is a student, who is constantly striving to do the right thing. While on his way to school, Bowser saw what appeared to be a stray cat stuck in a gutter. Bowser rescued the kitten and brought it to school administration in an effort to find the cat a home. The kitten found a home on that same day as it was adopted by a member of the school staff. The very next day, Bowser found a cellphone on the floor and ensured it was returned to school staff. The owner of the phone was reunited with the phone and extremely appreciative Bowser is always smiling and shows a positive attitude throughout his day at school.” What an amazing young man.
Katiuska Perez of Lehigh Acres is a senior at Riverdale High School. Riverdale High School, school resource officer, Deputy Jevon Matthews wrote “Katiuska came to me one morning to express concern for a friend and their safety. After speaking with Katiuska the deputy made contact with the friend and was able to ensure that they were not in danger. Katiuska exercised good judgment and decision making in notifying an adult about her concern and did so in a timely manner. Katiuska did the right thing and should be recognized for her actions.”