Simsbury Students Recognized by Farmington Valley Superintendents' Association

The Farmington Valley Superintendents’ Association formally recognized student leaders during a ceremony at the Farmington Country Club Friday, Nov. 22, 2013.

The honor was part of the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents Student Recognition Program, which honors students who maintain good scholastic progress, exhibit leadership and serve at school and in their communities. Most recognize a student at the middle school level and one in high school.

“All the students in this room are to be commended,” said Canton Superintendent Kevin D. Case, who hosted this year’s awards. “This is quite a distinct honor.”

State Sen. Kevin Witkos was the special speaker at the event. Witkos spoke of leadership and the contributions of many in society, including members of the military. He told the students that despite their successes it would still take a lot of hard work to be a leader in society. 

Both speakers mentioned the timing of the program coinciding with the 50th anniversary of president John F. Kennedy’s Assassination.

Both said Kennedy took risks and led the country through many trials.

And in times like the aftermath of his death, and 9-11, leadership is most important, Witkos said.

“It is in times of feat that strong leadership guides us to recovery,” Witkos said. 

Simsbury students honored at the event include:

Megan Russell - Henry James Memorial School 

Megan Russell is an extremely well rounded student.  Not only does she excel academically, but she also is quite successful outside of the classroom as well.  Firstly, she is an active and supportive team member on her soccer team.  She is also actively involved in the school chorus.  She does a wonderful job at managing and succeeding at all areas in which she is involved.  What her team of teachers is mostly impressed with however is her thoughtfulness and kindness.  For the last couple of years Megan has been a forerunner in our Unified Programs.   She embodies the open-minded and benevolence that educators look for in a student.  Currently, she is being trained to be a leader in our Unified Theater program, where she will certainly excel at providing special needs students opportunities that they would not ordinarily receive.  Megan is so kind-hearted and generous with her time that she frequently gives up her own study halls and lunch times to work one-on-one with special needs students!  Last year based off an idea from one of her global citizen challenges, she wrote to Mary Glassman suggesting more trash bins and doggie bags be put along Owens Park and Iron Horse Blvd. Mrs. Glassman discussed with the parks and recreation director and they decided to install and maintain the items to address the concerns about too much trash/litter in that area. Truly, this is the kind of character that should be rewarded! 

Jakob Gattinger - Simsbury High School

Jakob Gattinger is a natural leader who has made the most of his opportunities to represent Simsbury High School.  Through the Future Business Leaders of America, Jakob has forged relationships at the local, state, and even national level.  After being elected to leadership positions in our SHS Chapter and at the State Conference, he successfully pursued a campaign to become the National Treasurer for FBLA.  In that capacity, he has already had amazing opportunities to travel around the country for FBLA, including an appearance on the “Education Nation” student forum for NBC News.  Jakob also represents his peers as the Student Representative to the Simsbury Board of Education, and he became a co-founder of a new Stock Market Club.  Academically, Jakob is an extremely capable student; he will complete eight Advanced Placement courses before he finishes high school.  Most importantly, Jakob is a sincere and mature young man who is sure to succeed in whatever he chooses to do.  It is a pleasure to recognize him for the CAPSS Student Recognition Award.