Derby Board of Education recognizes 7 students

DERBY - At a recent meeting of the Committee of the Whole the Derby Board of Education  recognized seven students.

Isabelle Chevarella, a grade 12 student at Derby High School, has been selected to receive the SCASA Memorial Scholarship. 

This scholarship is given in honor of former Hamden Superintendent Dr. Alida Begina and former East Haven Superintendent Martin DeFelice, Jr. 

The scholarship is awarded to students who intend to major in education and work in K-12 public education, who have demonstrated involvement in the education field, e.g. tutoring, peer advising, or student teacher club, etc., who has demonstrated high academic achievement of a G.P.A. of at least 3.0 and is a student of high moral character. 

In Isabelle’s essay to the committee for consideration she references her father as her influencing factor in her decision to pursue education stating, “His passion for teaching and putting his students first has motivated me to follow in his footsteps.” 

Isabelle plans to major in history education.

The Board also recognized six of our students who received the SCASA Student Recognition Award. 

The award is presented to a female and male student at the highest level in each school who exhibit the following criteria: community service and service to others; academic prowess relative to ability; and leadership to the school community. 

The Board recognized Brianne Fernandez, Grade 5, Bradley School; Eduar Barillas, Grade 5, Irving School; Gianna Akter, Grade 8, Derby Middle School; Joseph Izquierdo, Grade 8, Derby Middle School; Destiny Lewis, Grade 12, Derby High School; and Bryce Cotter, Grade 12, Derby High School.

Dr. Matthew J. Conway, Jr, Superintendent of Schools and President of SCASA aid, “It is always exciting to call out and recognize the incredible attributes of our students and share with the world the great things they are doing every day to be impactful both in school and our community. The scholarship award is especially meaningful because of what it represents; honoring the past contributions of both Dr. Begina and Martin DeFelice, Jr. while supporting future leaders as they embark on the rewarding journey.”

Jim Gildea, Board of Education Chairman said, “The Derby school system is fortunate to have such an amazing group of students. Their accomplishments are special and deserving of recognition. They are the best that the Derby school system has to offer and we are proud of them.”

This is a press release from Derby Public Schools.