‘Unsung Hero’ At Bloomfield High School Inspires Community

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — A local student recently earned a well-deserved tip of the hat as an “unsung hero” of Bloomfield 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 Brielle Kate Guimaraes of Bloomfield High School.

According to the ECSBA, here’s a testimonial about this standout student’s contributions to the community:

"Brielle has always displayed incredible characteristics, is an excellent self-advocate, and is determined to push past hardships she has experienced. Brielle has unfortunately lost several close family members throughout the past few years. Throughout this time, Brielle has shown resilience and dedication to her future despite negative circumstances. Brielle has always shown staff and students exceptional amounts of respect and dedication throughout her time in the Bloomfield School District. She can be described as a student who would go out of her way to help others; which can be seen throughout her various forms of volunteer work, dedication to the Bloomfield community, and feedback given from BHS staff. A few examples of Brielle's dedication to her Bloomfield High School Bloomfield School District Brielle Kate Guimaraes community are: her participation in the Special Olympics, help coaching students from K-8 in cheer, her participation in Project CheerUp, her involvement in DARE, and her volunteer work at her local church."

“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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