Do You Know A Star Student In CT? Here's How To Nominate Them

Connecticut is full of bright, driven young people making a difference in and out of the classroom. That’s why Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight students excelling in academics, athletics and community service.

Check out five exceptional Connecticut students making a big impact. And if you know a student who deserves a shoutout, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them for a chance to be featured as a Star Student on Patch!

Ava Lombardo (Newtown) — At just 16, Newtown High School junior Ava Lombardo has already built a reputation as a dedicated volunteer and emerging leader at the Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary, where her passion for animals and community service has earned her a spot on the sanctuary’s junior executive board.

Lombardo first encountered the sanctuary at a pet adoption event in Greenwich when she was in elementary school. Soon after, she began volunteering, organizing service projects through her Girl Scout troop. Her enthusiasm and reliability led staff members to invite her to join the sanctuary’s leadership team for young volunteers. Read more here.

Evan Lucas (Brookfield) — Evan Lucas, a 17-year-old junior at Brookfield High School, is channeling his passion for civic involvement into action as a member of the Brookfield Youth Commission.

Lucas joined the commission after a teacher recommended him during his sophomore year. He had previously served on the school's Climate Committee, a group focused on student engagement within the high school. After attending a few Youth Commission meetings, he filed an application, which was approved by the town's Board of Selectmen. Read more here.

Students from Bassick High School’s Tango Flight — Students from Bassick High School’s Tango Flight program took to the skies last summer in a two-seat plane they spent nearly three years constructing, marking a milestone for the aviation education initiative.

The flights took place at Three Wing Aviation, based at Sikorsky Memorial Airport, where students, accompanied by family, mentors, and school officials, watched as the aircraft completed its flights. Representatives from Bridgeport Public Schools were also present for the occasion. Read more here.

Kimaya Sajit (Redding) — Kimaya is the president of our FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America). She identifies her leadership qualities as being persistent, strong-minded, and focused on achieving both personal and team goals. As president, she consistently demonstrates initiative, a strong sense of responsibility, and the ability to inspire others to perform at their best.

Kimaya stands out among her talented peers due to her exceptional drive, maturity, and ability to lead with both confidence and empathy. While many students are hardworking, Kimaya goes beyond expectations by consistently taking initiative, thinking strategically, and motivating others around her. She balances academic excellence with real-world leadership experience, all while maintaining a grounded and approachable personality. Read more here.

Finley Ballok (Coventry) — Meet Coventry resident Finley Ballok, who is selling dog treats to benefit the canines in need at Strong Paws Rescue. The treats are made by Rescue Treats.

"I love dogs more than anything and your support means the world to me," Finley said.

Finley hinted there will be more dog treat fundraisers in the future. Read more here.

These exceptional students are just a glimpse of the incredible talent in Connecticut. The future is certainly looking bright! If you know a Star Student making an impact in your community, nominate them today to be featured on Patch