Students Honored for Turning Around Performance

student Korena Metcalfe nearly failed sixth-grade. student Tyler Ryan had a knack for being around mischief and Linden Middle School student Christopher Flannery remembers assistant principal Mike Gagne because of a suspension.

However, despite their past struggles, these students several others were honored Wednesday for how they turned around their behavorial and academic performance.

The gave some recognition to students who might not normally earn academic awards at Spring Meadows Country Club in Linden Wednesday.The club’s annual Turn Around Achievement Award started eight years ago and 14 students were recognized Wednesday.

The purpose of the award is to recognize the achievements of students in the sixth, seventh and eighth grade, who have made significant improvements in their lives. These changes could be improving grades, developing better study and work habits and changing negative behavior.

Fenton teacher Becky Kelly said sixth-grader Dustin Shukait was previously more often found with his head down on the desk than focusing on studies.

"He came back after Christmas with a flame going," she said. "He's a great kid and I'm proud of him."

Lake Fenton teacher Jennifer Hottinger said seventh-grader Rachel Reedy seemed a bit overwhelmed and anxious in school, but became one of the top readers in the class and joined the National Honor Society.

Linden teacher Gayle Dill said Ezekiel Soriano was no longer satisfied with meeting requirements, but went past the basics to find out, "What else he could do."

The award winners are selected by school administrators and teachers in the , and Linden school districts. Each district is eligible to select five students in grades six through eighth.

Fenton students Alexandria Iid, Christian Frazier, Lake Fenton students Jordon Rock and Natalie Zdanowicz and Linden students Raymond Ballard, Madeline Neuville, Michael Zerka and Hannah Stacy were also honored.

Each student was given a certificate of achievement from the Optimist Club. They were also given proclamations from the municipality where their school is located. Each student received a backpack filled with items donated by local merchants as well.