Every school year the Hilton Board of Education honors individuals and organizations in the Hilton school community who have contributed to the education of Hilton students through volunteering or other efforts. This year’s Friends of Education were recognized at the May 13 board meeting.
Hilton High School Principal Brian Bartalo recognized Brian Heed for providing a backbone of support for the nationally-recognized High School Drumline. Heed’s leadership, high level of organization, craftsmanship and event coordination is paramount to the Drumline’s success, district officials say.
Representing the Music Department, Teacher Tim Stodd presented the award to Doug Wall, who spends countless hours supporting the instrumental music program. Heed is always enthusiastic, professional and keeps the interest of students foremost.
Athletic Director Michael Giruzzi recognized Kim Sile who, as a Sports Boosters volunteer, heads initiatives that directly benefit student athletes, including raising $15,000 worth of goods and services. She does not hesitate to volunteer her time and does so with a positive attitude, smile and infectious laugh, according to school representatives.
Merton Williams Middle School Assistant Principal Suzanne Goff recognized Cheryl Conolly, an active parent volunteer who is involved in the student of the month program, Student Council Fun Night, serves as a chaperone for the eighth-grade Washington, D.C. trip, just to name a few. Conolly’s ability to understand and communicate with the students makes her a valuable asset to the school.
Principal Kirk Ashton presented the award to Northwood Elementary School volunteer Maryanne Chaffee for recognizing the crucial role parent involvement takes in a child’s education. As VEPTO president, she uses a variety of means to support staff and students, and has been especially instrumental in raising funds for the new playground.
Village Elementary Principal Tracie Czebatol recognized Deborah Traut, library volunteer, for keeping the 150 books dropped off daily organized, and for her positive, loyal and collaborative attitude. Czebatol called Traut “a wonderful example to the school community.”
Peggy Gilbert, a volunteer at Quest Elementary School, was recognized by Principal Renee Mulrooney for assisting teachers with special projects. Referred to as “Grandma,” Gilbert is the epitome of the “can do” attitude and is able to work with people of all ages.
The district-wide Friends of Education Award was presented to the Parma Public Library. Superintendent David Dimbleby said that the library staff is unique in their willingness to serve the underserved. They tutor students who hang out in front of the library, treat all students with respect and are in turn treated respectfully, watch over the students, encourage them to participate in a local youth group, and welcome everyone to learn and use the library’s resources. The librarians and library clerks recognized are: Becky Tantillo, head librarian, Mikayla Bennett, Marcia Benton, Laurie Cordaro, Linda Dimino, Amy Hogue, Janice Hogue, Loretta Kirk, Sylvia Kulwicki, Rosalind Lipomi, Robin Steeson, Gerry Wolf and Brenna Zanghi.
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