Local Superintendents Honor Avon's Ponziani, Spivak

By John Fitts

The Farmington Valley Superintendents’ Association formally recognized student leaders during a ceremony at the Farmington Country Club Friday, Nov. 22, 2013.

The honor was part of the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents Student Recognition Program, which honors students who maintain good scholastic progress, exhibit leadership and serve at school and in their communities. Most recognize a student at the middle school level and one in high school.

“All the students in this room are to be commended,” said Canton Superintendent Kevin D. Case, who hosted this year’s awards. “This is quite a distinct honor.”

State Sen. Kevin Witkos was the special speaker at the event. Witkos spoke of leadership and the contributions of many in society, including members of the military. He told the students that despite their successes it would still take a lot of hard work to be a leader in society. 

Both speakers mentioned the timing of the program coinciding with the 50th anniversary of president John F. Kennedy’s Assassination.

Both said Kennedy took risks and led the country through many trials.

And in times like the aftermath of his death, and 9-11, leadership is most important, Witkos said.

“It is in times of feat that strong leadership guides us to recovery,” Witkos said. 

Avon Middle School

Rachel Rose Spivak

Rachel Spivak is a dedicated student who is a passionate about her academics, extra-curricular activities, and community service.  She is a participant in Unified Theater and is co-director of an upcoming school production.   Recently, she attended a Unified Theater Summit to prepare for this leadership role. Rachel is also treasurer of the Student Council, and attended the Connecticut Association of Schools Leadership Conference. While on the Student Council, she has helped with dances and fundraisers.   Rachel is a student representative on the Safe School Climate Committee and is a member of the Friends of Rachel (Joy Scott) Committee, the Poetry Club and the Knitting Club.  In the Knitting Club, she has made scarves for Sandy Hook Elementary School and came up with the idea to knit tiny hats for babies in the NICU.   For the past six years, Rachel has also given back to the community by hosting a Mother-Daughter Tea Party where she raises money for a scholarship with Dollars for Scholars.  Rachel enjoys being active in track and cross country and is well respected by peers and staff alike.

Avon High School

Mary Elizabeth Ponziani

Mary Ponziani is a mature, bright, young woman who exhibits consistent academic performance with a very rigorous course of studies and has been recognized on the highest levels of the school’s honor roll system since she began high school.  Her passion for excellence, maintaining high standards for both personal conduct and how she treats others is driven by her very well defined morals and ethics.   She has made the most of her high school experience by serving as Student Government President, a student representative on the Avon Board of Education, a representative to Girls’ State, an active participant in the National Honor Society Chapter, Model United Nations, and continues to serve as a Writing Workshop tutor.  Outside of school, she maintains active volunteer status with the West Hartford, Connecticut group entitled, Autism Families Connecticut, and the Farmington, Connecticut Relay for Life.  Mary is an exceptional student who possesses both the learning abilities, learner characteristics and personal attributes that are certain to ensure her success at the university level and beyond.  It is this unique combination of skills and abilities that make her an outstanding recipient of the FVSA Student Award.