'Loved By Everyone': Newtown Girl Nominated As Star Student

Newtown, Pennsylvania — Star Students are found in classrooms, on concert and theater stages and at debate lecterns, and out in the community doing good things to make life better for all of us.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize Star Students, and we’re working to tell the stories of these outstanding kids to their neighbors.

This submission comes from Denise Leuthy who nominated Layla of Newtown, Pennsylvania.

Star local student’s name

Layla

What grade is your star local student in?

1st

How do you know the star local student?

Grandmother

Why do you believe the star local student should be recognized?

Layla came up with a very creative and meaningful way to honor her best friend, a WWII veteran who was turning 100 years old. Knowing Joe missed receiving cards from school children, she asked all of St. Andrews first grade students to make him 100 cards to be presented to him on his birthday. She also arranged to have the cards delivered by the Newtown Police and Fire, with her riding in a fire truck, so that it would be a day that he would not forget. Since she was very little, she has always had a special love of caring for sick, elderly people… reading to them, making cards for them, playing games with them, helping them do their exercises, singing and dancing for them, and performing her ventriloquist act. She has improved the lives of so many and is loved by everyone. She is hoping to be able to read to residents of the local nursing homes this summer. Her goal is to let other young children know they can make a difference.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the star local student?

She is an avid reader and loves to learn.

Congratulations on your achievements, and all of our best wishes to you in the future, Layla!

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Know an outstanding student who deserves a shout-out?

Nominate them here.