‘Unsung Hero’ At Belleville High School Inspires Community

BELLEVILLE, NJ — A local student recently earned a well-deserved tip of the hat as an “unsung hero” of Belleville High School.

The Essex County School Boards Association (ECSBA) is shining a well-deserved spotlight on some humble-yet-inspiring young people as part of its 2024 Unsung Heroes awards, which were done in partnership with the New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA).

The annual recognition ceremony – now in its eighth year – pays tribute to students who might not always be in the spotlight, but whose presence is a “beacon of inspiration and strength.”

“These students have demonstrated exceptional character through overcoming adversity, providing quiet leadership, and achieving personal and academic success against the odds,” the association says.

This year’s honorees include Laura Peña Morales of Belleville High School. According to the ECSBA, here’s a testimonial about this standout student’s contributions to the community:

“It is our pleasure to recommend Laura Peña for this award. Laura is an exceptionally determined, studious, and hardworking student. Not only is she an excellent student, but she has truly dedicated herself to enriching the lives of students and others around her. Laura is self-motivated, kind, and has excellent character. She is friendly, respectful, and is extremely well liked by her classmates. She is always helping ESL students with any difficulties they have with paperwork, assignments, college applications, etc. Moving from another country without knowing the English language is challenging and quite scary for most, but Laura has done so with grace and dedication. In addition to her academic achievement, Laura is a well-rounded student who is involved both inside and outside of school.”

“It is our pleasure to pay tribute to these extraordinary students who have inspired us, brought joy and hope to our schools, helped guide other students, and taught us all the most important lessons in life –the importance of determination, courage, kindness and perseverance,” NJSBA executive director Timothy Purnell said.

“These students embody the spirit of resilience and dedication that often goes unnoticed,” agreed Reginald Bledsoe, president of the Essex County School Boards Association.

“Their stories are not just inspiring; they are a testament to the power of tenacity, kindness, and hard work,” Bledsoe added. “They are the unsung heroes who make our schools a better place daily.”

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