PHS, Taconic Seniors Honored With Superintendent's AwardBy Brittany Polito, iBerkshires Staff
05:24PM / Thursday, October 10, 2024 | |
 Taconic High School's Nicholas Kerwood with Curtis and family at Wednedsay's School Committee meeting. |
Taconic's Nicholas Kerwood and Pittsfield High's Lisa Chen are the top students in the class of 2025.
PITTSFIELD, Mass.— Two Pittsfield Public Schools seniors have been recognized for excellence in and out of the classroom.
Pittsfield High School's Lisa Chen and Taconic High School's Nicholas Kerwood were given the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents' Certificates of Academic Excellence during Wednesday's School Committee meeting.
The annual award is given to students who go above and beyond in academic achievement and community involvement.
Guidance counselor Jillian Galvagni, who has known Kerwood for four years while attending Taconic commended him for an impressive workload of advanced courses and inspiring leadership in extracurriculars.
"Nicholas has consistently demonstrated a remarkable commitment to advancing educational opportunities and promoting excellence within the academic community," she wrote in a letter of recommendation.
"His proactive approach to educational leadership and his ability to inspire and empower both students and educators are truly impressive."
Along with being at the top of his class, Kerwood has taken six Advanced Placement courses and 11 honors courses during his high school tenure. He is currently taking three AP courses at Berkshire Community College and still finds time to be a part of the Taconic community.
"Nicholas is the kind of leader who brings people together. As captain of the cross country team, a member of several clubs, and part of the theater department, he's always working to keep communication flowing and build strong connections. He has made a real difference during his time at Taconic," Galvagni wrote.
"What stands out the most about Nicholas is his character. He's hard-working, honest, and always striving to improve, whether it's in academics, athletics, or just day-to-day interactions, Nicholas's commitment to doing his best and helping others shine through."
Chen, who has served as a school representative on the School Committee, is ranked No. 1 in her class of 165 students with a cumulative grade average of 104 and will have completed 10 AP courses upon graduation.
Guidance counselor Meghann Marcella commended for her extracurricular excellence and dedicated work ethic in her personal life.
"Lisa has a passion for learning, which is evident through her review of her high school transcript and her rigorous academic path she has pursued. Lisa has always wanted to push herself academically and be involved in an array of service activities," Marcella wrote.
"Lisa's teachers describe her as a responsible, positive, and active leader in classes. Another teacher noted that Lisa has endless curiosity, vigorous energy, and conviction in her pursuit to do only the best. Lisa's strong academic performance is complemented by her extensive repertoire of extracurricular activities, volunteer experiences, and part-time employment in the community. Lisa's ability to balance her intense academic requirements and her community participation is beyond impressive, showing her determination and commitment to excellence at PHS."
Chen has been a member of the Rotary Club, the school's equity team, the student government, and co-president of the mock trial team. She has volunteered with many agencies including Berkshire United Way, 18 Degrees, and the Berkshire Museum.
She also has a passion for music, participating in the PHS orchestra and numerous other youth orchestras and receiving many awards.
"Additionally, Lisa is devoted to her family and siblings, having worked as part of the family business throughout high school. Lisa sets high expectations for herself and advocates for her own learning and understanding, working hard to meet her own standards," Marcella wrote.
"Lisa's work ethic and commitment to the community service will serve her well as she embarks on the net on her next steps of her adult life."
After graduation, she is considering four-year colleges including Northeastern University, Boston University, the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, and Yale University.
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