Outstanding in her Field

Pottstown Middle School Student Ashley Adams, left, with her award and teacher Dee Pettine.

Blogger's Note: Once again, we are indebted to John Armato, the avatar of positive Pottstown School District news, for a truly worthwhile recognition: 

The Pennsylvania Association for Middle Level Education recognized Pottstown eighth grade student Ashley Adams with the prestigious Joan Jarrett PAMLE Outstanding Student Award.

Named in honor of the Past President of PAMLE Joan Jarrett, the award seeks to recognize students for their effort and persistence to maintain academic success while at the same time contributing to the school and community environment.

Middle school teacher Dee Pettine wrote in nominating Ashley for the award.

“A particular quality of Ashley’s that stands out for me is her kindness. She attempts to include others in her actions and deeds. As a seventh grader, she stayed after school with friends and they would bake and make blankets for needy individuals. She has also helped other students develop social skills that have enabled them to take part in middle school activities. I have been teaching middle school level students for over 30 years and I know how rare it is to find such a selfless, humble student at her age level. Ashley is that quiet leader we all love to get to share for a short time that they spend with us in middle school," Pettine wrote.

From left, Ashley's parents, Ashley, Pettine and
Kim Arp ,Executive Board member PAMLE 

Ashley demonstrated her selfless, humble approach when, after being given the award which included $100, she asked that the money be donated to the Wounded Warriors Organization which provides assistance to members of our military wounded during service.

Some of Ashley’s activities include being an honor roll student and a two-year member of National Junior Honor Society while at the same time participating in cross country and track field.

As a member of the Builders Club, she has spearheaded the organization’s hand-making Christmas cards to be sent to our military troops overseas. She has also supported the club’s annual “Souper Sunday” canned goods drive to support needy individuals. Her leadership skills extended to developing student participation “Jersey Day” activities which helped promote donations of canned goods.

Kimberly Arp, Executive Board Member of PAMLE, said, “I am delighted to present this award to Ashley. It is evident that she exemplifies the highest qualities that are recognized by this award. We are proud to be able to present the award and we are humbled by her gesture of donating the $100.00 award to such an outstanding organization as the Wounded Warriors.”