West Orange Student Liaisons, Local 'Trailblazer' Get Round Of Applause From School Board

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the West Orange Public School District. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

The West Orange Board of Education recognized the outgoing high school liaisons and the recipient of the 2025 West Orange High School Trailblazer Award at the board meeting held on June 16.

Seniors Abby Rothstein and Nina Davis were recognized for their commitment as board liaisons for the 2024-2025 school year. Board liaisons attend all public board meetings, provide updates and reports on high school events, and can participate in discussions during the meeting.

Several years ago, the district initiated the "Trailblazer Award," to be given to one or more students that have accomplished something unique by blazing a new trail of opportunity for themselves and fellow students. The award was created to honor Dylan Pennell, a WOHS Class of 2014 graduate who lobbied the state, Essex County, and the school district to begin the now award-winning WOHS AFJROTC. Dylan's parents, Suzanne and Donald Pennell were on hand to present the award to Eleanor Kukes for her work with the recently formed West Orange High School "Best Buddies" program.

Best Buddies International was founded by Anthony Kennedy Shriver in 1989 and provides a friend or mentor to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As the largest organization working to end the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people with IDD, Best Buddies has become an international movement that has spread to over 54 countries worldwide. It consists of eight programs: Best Buddies Middle Schools, High Schools, Colleges, Promoters, Citizens, Ambassadors, Jobs, and e-buddies. These Best Buddies programs offer opportunities for social skills, job training, and even housing assistance.

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