6 Derby Students Receive Recognition Awards

DERBY, CT — The Derby Board of Education recently recognized six local students who received SCASA Student Recognition Awards.

According to a news release provided by Derby Public Schools, the awards are presented to students at the highest level in each school who exhibit the following criteria: community service and service to others, academic prowess relative to ability and leadership to the school community.

At the April 8, 2025 Committee of the Whole meeting, the Derby Board of Education had the pleasure of recognizing six of our students who received SCASA Student Recognition Awards. The awards are presented to students at the highest level in each school who exhibit the following criteria: community service and service to others; academic prowess relative to ability; and leadership to the school community.

The following students were recognized during a Committee of the Whole meeting on April 8, according to the district:

• Demarni Beech (Grade 5, Bradley School)
• Cameron O’Donnell (Grade 5, Irving School)
• Bianca Pizarro (Grade 8, Derby Middle School)
• Isael Martinez (Grade 8, Derby Middle School)
• Julissa Flores (Grade 12, Derby High School)
• Quinlan Gray (Grade 12, Derby High School)

"We are incredibly proud of Cameron, Demarni, Bianca, Isael, Julissa and Quinlan for being recognized with the SCASA Award," Superintendent of Schools Matthew Conway Jr. said in a news release. "Their dedication to academics, commitment to extracurricular involvement and service to the community reflect the very best of Derby Public Schools. Their grind, grit and leadership are an inspiration to their peers and a testament to what it means to lead with purpose and excellence."

Derby Board of Education Chair Jim Gildea said the board extended its heartfelt congratulations to all six students for their dedication, hard work and contributions.

"Their efforts not only enrich their own lives," Gildea said in a news release, "but also inspire others to strive for excellence in academics and community involvement."