Saugus salutes its young heroes

SAUGUS — Parents, teachers, staff, and community members met at the High School to present the Unsung Hero Award to students who were exemplars of stand-up behavior both inside and outside of their classrooms this school year.

Superintendent Michael Hashem said that the students being recognized are not necessarily the smartest in their classes, but the ones that can always be counted on.

“They’re the ones who volunteer without having to be asked, the ones who are there when you need them. That’s something that we’re really impressed with, and something that we really need,” Hashem said.

State Rep. Donald Wong awarded the recipients with a citation signed by Speaker of the Massachusetts House Ron Mariano, state Rep. Jessica Ann Giannino, and himself.

“I don’t care what you say, you don’t have to be an A student, but when you do more than what you are expected to do, you’re going to come out ahead of the class — and your teachers are going to remember you,” Wong said.

WIN Waste Innovations provided the awards, food, and drinks for the event. WIN Waste Plant Manager Elliott Casey said that the company hopes to lend a helping hand to the town in the future.

“This is a great event because it shines light on these wonderful students who may not have received the recognition that they deserved over the years, but they’re getting that opportunity now,” Casey said. “Anything that we can do to continue to support the outstanding work that they do in Saugus schools, we want to help continue that.”

Selectmen Debra Panetta and Corinne Riley were also in attendance. Panetta addressed the room, extending congratulations on behalf of the Board of Selectmen.

“When you look up ‘unsung hero,’ it says the key characteristics are courage, compassion, perseverance, conviction, and selflessness — and that is what each one of you exhibit,” Panetta said.

Veterans Early Learning Center Principal Michael Mondello introduced the teachers of the two recipients from his school, saying that their students put in effort every day and are selfless and caring.

Jennifer Nicolo, the teacher of first-grader Gwen Thurston, said that Thurston’s family and friends mean the world to her.

“She has a light in her eyes when she talks about those she loves,” Nicolo said. “Gwen exemplifies what it means to be a role model.”

Jessica Esposito, the teacher of first-grader Pedro Amarilla, said that Amarilla is representative of all the honorable qualities of an unsung hero.

“He’s patient, kind, driven, thoughtful, and considerate. Pedro is a magnificent leader in our first-grade classroom. He leads by example, showing others and inspiring others to be respectful and responsible individuals,” Esposito said. “It’s easy to see that he is loved and he makes his friends smile everyday.”

Marissa Concannon, the teacher of fifth-grader Reese DelMuto, said that DelMuto always puts others before herself.

“She’s compassionate beyond belief. She is the epitome of selflessness. She’s a true friend,” Concannon said.

High School Principal Brendon Sullivan spoke about recipients from the Middle School and High School, reading from a statement prepared by Middle School Assistant Principal David Micu.

Sullivan said that Middle School student Victoria Vannah is a student-athlete who excels in both fields.

“As the Project 351 ambassador for ’23-’24, she demonstrates remarkable leadership by organizing a successful clothing drive for Cradles to Crayons, making a significant impact on children in need,” Sullivan said. “She embodies the spirits of Saugus Middle/High School through many positive traits, such as empathy, devotion, and positive attitude.”

Sullivan said Middle School student Luis Fung Chen always strives to achieve success without complaining.

“I have no doubt that Luis will achieve great things in the future. He is a creative, thoughtful, and hardworking student whose professionalism and dedication serve as an inspiration to us all,” Sullivan said.

Sullivan said High School senior Jordan Chantha “is a dedicated scholar and social-justice activist — honest, forthright, and compassionate.”

Sullivan also said that Chantha’s time at Saugus High School “has been impactful as he continues to help educate staff and students about the importance of being knowledgeable of other cultures and backgrounds,” and that “his contributions to our school have helped to make it a safer, more inclusive place.”

Sullivan said that senior Kathryn De Souza is ranked third in her graduating class with a 4.6 GPA.

“She is someone who willingly speaks up to help others, makes connections, and creates a positive difference in our community… Her contributions to our school have made a significant impact on our student body. And the staff feel so fortunate to have the chance to work with her over the past four years,” Sullivan said of De Souza.

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