SAUGUS — The Saugus Business Education Collaborative (SBEC) awarded eight students, two from each Saugus school, Unsung Hero Awards, for students who go above and beyond in the classroom.
Saugus Middle High School Principal Carla Scuzzarella kicked things off, introducing the members of the SBEC who were present and other town officials who were there. Those members included Selectman Corinne Riley, School Committee Chair Vincent Serino, Superintendent Michael Hashem, local Attorney Nelson Chang, WIN Waste’s Jack Walsh, Selectman Anthony Cogliano and SBEC President Peter Rossetti Jr.
“Everyone always asks, ‘What’s an Unsung Hero?’ It’s not necessarily the best athlete or the smartest kid, but it’s the one who makes themself available. They help the teachers. They can help their fellow classmates,” Rossetti said.
The Unsung Heroes were selected by teachers, and Rossetti continued that it’s the kid who helps out in class, helping both teachers and fellow students.
“They’re someone who doesn’t always get recognized but should because they are a very, very important part of learning,” he said.
The night was sponsored by WIN Waste, which provided the trophies, Amazon gift cards, centerpieces for the tables and the food at the event.
WIN Waste Fuel and Ash Manager Brooke Miles spoke after Rossetti, saying, “At the Waste and Energy Facility, we understand what it means to do important work behind the scenes. Our job isn’t flashy. We turn trash into energy, working hard in places most people never see… That’s why sponsoring the Unsung Hero Awards means so much to us. You kids are a lot like us. Quietly doing the right thing, helping others, not looking for attention or praise… From all of us, thank you and keep being the kind of heroes the world needs more of.”
Veterans Early Learning Center teachers Abby Ricciardelli and Alex Kessler were then invited up to give the VELC students their Unsung Hero Awards. Those students were Kai Torres and Maeve Chiaravallotti.
“When imagining what it means to be an Unsung Hero, Kai quietly embodies all of the traits you would expect. He is incredibly bright and his kindness shines through in everything he does,” Ricciardelli said.
“Maeve, throughout her time at the VELC, consistently exemplifies all of our core values. She’s a friend to all, always. She’s trustworthy and honest and not afraid to take risks or make mistakes… I can’t wait to see the beautiful human she’s destined to become,” Kessler said.
Up next, Belmonte STEAM Academy Principal Dr. Maureen Lueke spoke, introducing the two teachers presenting the Unsung Hero Awards for the academy: Catherine Cancelliere and Kylie Willwerth. The students who received the awards were Ryder Cutelis and Ava Najem.
“Some years it’s really difficult to choose an unsung hero for my classroom. This year, there was no problem… Ryder always chooses to do the right thing… If you need a helping hand, Ryder will offer his. If you need a good laugh, Ryder has a joke for you… If you want to know someone who appreciates the world around them, get to know Ryder,” Cancelliere said.
“Having Ava in my class has been one of the best things out of this year… If you know Ava, to know her is to love her. Everywhere that she goes, she brings joy, whether it be in the classroom, in the hallway, at Girls on the Run, at cheerleading… She brings positivity and brightness to everyone she meets,” Willwerth said.
Saugus Middle High School Associate Principal David Micu was next up, introducing the middle schoolers who won the Unsung Hero Award. Those students were Arthur Freitas and Ava Newbury.
“It’s my honor to recognize Arthur from the Saugus Middle School as one of this year’s unsung heroes. Arthur exemplifies what it means to be a model student. He brings quiet leadership to the classroom rooted in curiosity, passion and focus. Arthur consistently sets a positive example for his peers through his actions and attitude,” Micu said.
“Ava is a dedicated student athlete who leads not with words but with quiet confidence and consistent excellence. Whether she’s on the volleyball court, on the track, or in the classroom, Ava gives her best, not for recognition, but because it’s simply who she is. She carries herself with maturity, respect and a positive attitude that sets a tone for those around her,” he said.
Scuzzarella presented the awards to high school students Nevaeh Rogers and Alex Wallace.
“Nevaeh is a shining example of leadership, compassion and hard work. As a peer leader, she has formed strong connections with students in our substantially separate program, serving as both a guide and a friend. Her patience, positivity and willingness to lend a hand never go unnoticed. Nevaeh balances a full plate with grace and determination,” Scuzzarella said.
“Alex is a passionate leader, a dedicated volunteer and a true change maker. As a member of the Students in Action Club, Alex has played a key role in organizing events that have had a real impact on our school community, including the Self Care Fair… Alex is deeply committed to social justice and has used their voice to advocate for equity and inclusion at SHS,” she said.
Lastly, State Rep. Donald Wong presented a citation to all of the recipients from the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
