Students, Teacher, and Retiree Honored at Boys & Girls Club Gala

The Board of Directors of the Boys & Girls Club of the Hudson Valley recognized honorees and candidates of the 2018 Junior Youth of the Year and 2018 Youth of the Year last week on April 5^th.

Of the five 2018 Junior Youth of the Year candidates, Steven Gonzalez, a sixth-grade student at South Middle School took home the honor. Steven credits the Boys & Girls Club with helping to strengthen his leadership skills, explore his creativity, and help others. Steven’s hobbies include: playing chess, reading, listening to music (K-Pop and country). Steven says he hopes to use the skills he is acquiring to become involved in politics in the future.

Of the five 2018 Youth of the Year candidates, Kai Cuttino, a senior at Newburgh Free Academy, North Campus took home the honor. Kai is an honors student enrolled in AP classes and has maintained a 100% average for her senior year, ranking in the top 2% of her class. Along with her outstanding academic achievements, Kai is also a member of the Math Team, Mock Trial Team, Newburgh Performing Arts Academy Senior Dance Ensemble, and holds a part-time job. “Because of the Boys & Girls Club of Newburgh, I feel I have the confidence, determination, and skills to go out and accomplish my goals. My time at the Boys & Girls Club of Newburgh and the Newburgh Performing Arts Academy is something I will always remember and will always be a part of me.” Kai Cuttino

Mr. Michael Paz, retiree from Newburgh Enlarged City School District was honored for Excellence in Athletics. Mr. Paz served 35 years as the Skilled Maintenance & Athletic Equipment Manager for NECSD. Mr. Paz has a long history of service to Newburgh youth and as a supporter of athletic programs both locally and state wide.

Ms. Linda Romano, teacher in Newburgh Free Academy, North Campus’s Certified Nursing Assistant program at the Newburgh Enlarged City School District was honored for Excellence in Education. In addition to her work as a Health Science Education, Ms. Romano services as chair of the School Leadership Team, Health and Safety Team, Adviser to the Red Cross Club, Blood Drive, and Health Occupation Students of America. “It is my mission to make the world a better place for our students. I love what I do and the students I teach. I have dedicated myself to the service of these children. It is why I am on this earth, to fil the purpose of service to others, especially children.” Ms. Linda Romano

Mr. Phillip Howard, Newburgh Enlarged City School District, Board of Education member was the emcee for the event.

2018 Junior Youth of the Year candidates from the Newburgh Enlarged City School District were:

Steven Gonzalez, South Middle School

Briana Reese, Fostertown Elementary School

2018 Youth of the Year candidates from the Newburgh Enlarged City School District were:

Kai Cuttino, Newburgh Free Academy

Simone Green, Newburgh Free Academy

Jaslyn Martinez, Newburgh Free Academy

Deanna Telesfor, Newburgh Free Academy

Roneea Thompson, Newburgh Free Academy

Through the work of all, we will achieve inclusive excellence.

ATTENTION: Are your scholars or colleagues doing something great? Please contact the district Communications Team at communications@necsd.net. We’d love to visit your class or event and/or post your pictures and recap to highlight the amazing accomplishments throughout our district!