The Middle Country Central School District announced its December students of the month at its recent Board of Education meeting. Centereach High School senior Alec Kiernan, Newfield High School senior Ryan Murphy, Dawnwood Middle School sixth grade student Alicia Ciauri and Selden Middle School sixth grade student Christopher Richardson were all celebrated for their outstanding academic achievements, abundant extracurricular participation and for providing an overall positive impact on their schools and communities.
“Month after month, we are surrounded by incredible students who emulate the positive values and hard work of the entire Middle Country student body,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Roberta Gerold. “We are thrilled to once again honor students who go above and beyond in the classroom, inside their respective school, and throughout their surrounding communities—a representation of what all Middle Country educators seeks to instill in our students.”
Centereach High School senior and December student of the month recipient Alec Kiernan was selected for his academic and athletic success, along with his positive attitude among his peers. Alec currently maintains a weighted GPA of 99.8 and is set to graduate in June ranked 24th in the class of 2018. Upon graduating, Alec will have completed no less than seven Advanced Placement courses and five more college level classes.
Though he was a key member of the school’s football team, Alec’s stellar athletic ability was overshined by his leadership skills. Both his coaches and teammates recognized his innate instincts as a leader, and he was elected captain three years in a row. Due to his hard work in the classroom and on the playing field, Alec is currently deciding where he will be studying and playing collegiate football next fall.
Ryan Murphy is a senior at Newfield High School who was selected as student of the month for his academic achievements and constant volunteer work around the community. Ryan has dedicated countless hours to community service through his time as a SPARTAN vocalist at Maryhaven, local nursing homes and the Selden Fire Department’s annual 9/11 memorial ceremony.
Ryan has also served as a vital team player in coordinating and managing the successful Newfield Blood Drives that occur in the fall and spring of each school year. Next fall, Ryan is looking to major in photography at either SUNY Purchase, SUNY New Paltz, SUNY Buffalo State or Long Island University.
Dawnwood Middle School sixth grade student Alicia Ciauri was selected as the school’s student of the month. Alicia currently holds a GPA of 98.3 and is consistently a recipient of the high honor roll. Her teachers often describe her stellar work ethic; she is always prepared for class and is always willing to help her peers. Alicia is also an active member of both the Service Club and Jazz Band. Above all, the overarching description of Alicia is as a kind, nice and humble student.
Christopher Richardson is a sixth grade student at Selden Middle School and was selected student of the month, holding a GPA of 97.3. Christopher, who earned high honor roll in his first quarter in middle school, enjoys science because it combines math with hands-on activities. He has also found time to become a member of Selden Middle School’s student government, the Best Buddies Club and the Jazz Band, where he plays drums. Teachers often acknowledge him as a natural leader which will come in handy as he pursues his dream career of either a chef or President of the United States.
For more information regarding Middle Country Central School District and its students’ many achievements, please visit the District’s website: http://www.middlecountry.k12.ny.us.
Centereach High School senior Alec Kiernan.
Newfield High School senior Ryan Murphy.
Dawnwood Middle School sixth grade student Alicia Ciauri.
Selden Middle School sixth grade student Christopher Richardson.