We are pleased to announce our 4th Grade Optimists for the 2024-2025 school year. We are extremely proud of our students and all their achievements!
September - Cataliya Sokul
Cataliya Sokul was selected as the 4th Grade Youth of the Month for September. Cataliya is the daughter of Liliya Sokol-Rodriguez and Roberto Rodriguez of Cassville, NY. Cataliya is involved in the Lego Club, Chorus, and Fit to Read in the Elementary School. She has been awarded an MMTA and Star of the Week. Outside of school, Cataliya likes to play soccer. Her future goals are to become a teacher. Mrs. Maine says, “Cataliya is a conscientious and hard-working student who always tries her very best. She is an ideal class citizen who always follows the rules. She is sweet, kind, and a friend to all. Cataliya is the most deserving of this award.”
October - Wendell Curtin
Wendell Curtin was the recipient for the Month for October. Wendell is the son of Mallory and David Curtin of Bridgewater, NY. Wendell is involved in Chorus in Elementary school. He has been chosen for various MMTA awards. Outside of school, Wendell is involved in soccer and softball. In the future, Wendell would like to become a professional soccer player. Ms. Engle says, “Wendell is a terrific young man who treats everyone with respect. He is a responsible, hardworking student and is a pleasure to have in class.”
November - Ryan Knisely
Ryan Knisely was Youth of the Month for November. Ryan is the son of Michelle and Gary Knisely of West Winfield, NY. While in elementary school, Ryan has been in Fit to Read and Chorus. Ryan has also received multiple MMTA awards. Ryan’s future goal is to become a scientist. Mrs. Stone says, “Ryan sets an exceptional example of outstanding citizenship, cooperation, and he always has a positive attitude. Additionally, he is a kind friend to all, and he shows great effort in all his written work. Ryan is a natural leader for others to follow!”
December - Faith Gigliotti
Faith Gigliotti received the Optimist award for December. Faith is the daughter of Elisa and Eric Gigliotti of West Winfield, NY. While in elementary school, Faith has been involved in Fit to Read, Chorus, and Lego Robotics. Faith has received several MMTA awards while in elementary school. Outside of school, Faith enjoys playing soccer. Faith’s future goals include going to school for Cosmetology. Mrs. Stone says, “Faith is a very hard worker, and she is always open to new learning opportunities. Her citizenship and participation in class are both exceptional as well. She is always a positive role model for other students.”
January - Felicity Ingerham
The January recipient was Felicity Ingerham. Felicity is the daughter of Sabrina and Harry Ingerham of Ilion, NY. While in elementary school, Felicity has been a member of the Elementary Chorus. Felicity has received MMTA awards. Felicity’s future plans are to become a gymnast and do ballet. Ms. Owens says, “Felicity is a sweet, kind, and hard-working student. She always has her work done and is eager to learn the next new thing. Her positive attitude and gentle nature can light up any room!”
February - Alessandra Osborn
Alessandra Osborn was selected as the 4th Grade Optimist for February. Alessandra is the daughter of Stephanie and Andrew Osborn of West Winfield, NY. While in elementary school, Alessandra has received MMTA awards for various things and has been a Star Student. Outside of school, Alessandra enjoys playing soccer. Her future plans include becoming a coach and a baker. Mrs. Maine says, “Alessandra is a conscientious and hard-working student who always tries her best. She is a wonderful class citizen who is sweet, kind, and always willing to lend a helping hand! Alessandra is most deserving of this award! Congratulations Aless!”
March - Wynne Stephan
Wynne Stephan was the Youth of the Month for March. Wynne is the daughter of Michele and Chris Stephan of Litchfield, NY. While in elementary school, Wynne has been involved in Chorus and Art Club. Wynne has received MMTA Awards. Outside of school, Wynne enjoys playing soccer and spending time with her family. Wynne’s future plans include running her family's business, Stephan Excavating. Ms. Owens says, “Wynne is an ambitious, kind, and motivated student. If perseverance had a poster child, it would be Wynne. She always tries her best at everything she does, even if it is challenging. Her optimism and kind heart will bring her far in life.”
April - Channce Burdick
Channce Burdick has been chosen as the 4th Grade Optimist of the Month for April. Channce is the son of Samantha Ingerham and Chad Guiney of Ilion, NY. While in elementary school, Channce has been a member of the Elementary Chorus. Channce’s future goals include becoming a movie actor! Mrs. Wisewell says, “Channce exhibits many good qualities that make him a good choice for Optimist of the Month. He is a positive role model to his peers and others and is looked up to. Channce always looks out for others who might need help, whether they are peers or adults. In addition, Channce is a very responsible student and completes his work to the best of his ability. Channce also has a great sense of humor and brightens up our classroom!”
May - Ethan Estey
Ethan Estey was chosen as the Youth Optimist for May. Ethan is the son of Erin and Justin Estey of West Winfield, NY. While in elementary school, Ethan has been involved in Chorus, Lego Robotics, and Fit to Read. Ethan has been awarded MMTA awards and 1st place in the Pinewood Derby for Boy Scouts. Outside of school, Ethan enjoys being in Boy Scouts, playing basketball, and baseball. Ethan’s future goals include becoming a baseball player. Mrs. Stone says, “Ethan is always a positive role model for others. He works hard, and he consistently tries his best. As a classmate, he is kind, patient, and supportive of his peers. As a student, he is respectful, responsible, and cooperative! I truly appreciate his willingness to learn and contribute to our class dynamic.”
June-Lillian Barletta
Lillian Barletta was chosen as the Youth Optimist for June. Lillian is the daughter of Taylor and Joseph Barletta of West Winfield, NY. While in elementary school, Lillian received several MMTA awards. Outside of school, Lillian enjoys playing soccer and field hockey. Lillian’s future plans include becoming a successful farmer and a police officer. Her teacher, Mrs. Maine says,” Lillian is a hardworking and conscientious young lady who gives every task her best effort. She is sweet, kind and thoughtful. She is a friend to all. Lillian is most deserving of the award. Congratulations Lilly!”