Madison Eighth Grader — And MYFS Volunteer — Is A Patch Star Student

MADISON, CT — Star Students are found in classrooms, on concert and theater stages and at debate lecterns, and out in the community doing good things to make life better for all of us.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize Star Students, and we’re working to tell the stories of these outstanding kids to their neighbors.

This submission comes from Peggy Butler who nominated Matthew of Madison, Connecticut.

Star local student’s name

Matthew

What grade is your star local student in?

Eighth

How do you know the star local student?

He actively participate in Positive Youth Development programs that I run through my work at Madison Youth and Family Services

Why do you believe the star local student should be recognized?

I have had the pleasure to watch Matthew grow from a reserved 7th grader member to a confident 8th grade leader. Matthew was chosen by his peers in 7th grade to join the program. His energy and enthusiasm towards the world and his positive attitude make him a valuable member of his group. His continued understanding and commitment to the mission and methodology of MYFS Peer Helpers led me to choose him to lead many projects. He in turn has become a social advocate for changing middle school culture. He helped develop and run a food drive last year for the town's food pantry. This year he spoke at an assembly about the harmful effects of hate language and is currently spearheading a school-wide project to make his school a more inclusive place.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the star local student?

Matthew has a special passion for life. He possesses talents which provide broadening visions for his peers. His appreciation of life and concern for others compels him into leadership. He has an ability to bring fun into every situation, however academic. Matthew’s participation greatly enhances the quality of experience for everyone participating. His leadership, delightful personality, and wonderful positive attitude give encouragement and support to everyone whose life he touches. Among the adolescent community, he is most respectful and respected. Matthew is a caring, thoughtful, young man with a great deal of integrity. His service activities flow not from an outside need to write a resume, but from an inside sense of who he wants to be in the world. In Matthew’s case, this way of being in the world is combined with great enthusiasm and a wonderful sense of humor. Matthew's celebrates and enjoys life and people, and shares that enjoyment wherever possible. His contagious smile never fails to warm up the room. He well deserving of your Star Student Award and I am delighted to recommend him to you and do so with no reservations whatsoever.

Congratulations on your achievements, and all of our best wishes to you in the future, Matthew!

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