Holyoke Public Schools has selected 25 students in grades 6-12 from six schools to receive one of the district’s most prestigious honors for students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership skills, and community involvement.
The district’s Rising Stars program celebrated its 30th annual awards with a ceremony on Tuesday, June 4 at Holyoke High School’s Dean Campus. The cafeteria was transformed into a colorful event space, with balloons, silver stars, and decorated table settings. Sodexo provided a buffet for attendees to enjoy, complete with a carved watermelon celebrating the event.
The award presentation was preceded by a performance from STEM Beats, Holyoke STEM Academy’s music group, which features two of this year’s Rising Stars among its ranks. Awards were presented on a stage with a starry backdrop, giving students the opportunity to have their photos taken with Superintendent Anthony Soto, Mayor Joshua Garcia, and school leadership.
“Our Rising Stars are shining examples of students who have worked hard and remained committed to their education and their successes in and out of their classrooms,” said Superintendent Soto. “These students are role models and leaders with bright futures ahead.”
This year’s Rising Stars include:
Jadiel Abreu Molina, Grade 9, HHS North
Abigail Bechard, Grade 7, Sullivan
Parker Brunelle, Grade 9, HHS North
Ashantilys Calderon, Grade 10, HHS Dean
Marialis Camacho, Grade 11, HHS North
Sophia Camacho, Grade 6, Sullivan
Jasmine Concepcion, Grade 9, HHS North
Aliliana De Jesus, Grade 7, Metcalf Middle
Jose DelValle, Grade 12, HHS Dean
Tatiana Gonzalez, Grade 9, HHS Dean
Deysie Isaac, Grade 12, Opportunity Academy
Yasmine Laguerre, Grade 8, Metcalf Middle
Dwayne Lopez, Grade 6, Metcalf Middle
Jayden Lopez, Grade 12, HHS North
Arthur (AJ) Mazzu, Grade 11, HHS North
Felix Marrero-Cruz, Grade 11, HHS Dean
Jose Orma Ocasio, Transitions Academy
Yeilianis Rodriguez Calderon, Grade 8, Sullivan
Nizayah L Sanchez, Grade 6, STEM Academy
Ava Sandoval, Grade 8, STEM Academy
Aubrianna Santini, Grade 7, STEM Academy
Kierstin St. Lawrence, Grade 10, HHS North
Ceil Velazquez Roman, Grade 11, HHS North
Addison Watson, Grade 8, Metcalf Middle
Maria Zaya Rosario, Grade 12, HHS North
Learn more about each Rising Star in the video below.