November PRIDE Program student awardees at Blendon Middle School are Sydney Russell and Jeff Hairston, and the staff recipient is Robert Payne. Russell was nominated for volunteering to clean up after class without being asked. Hairston earned the honor for demonstrating respect for a fellow student by letting her know that something was caught on her clothing so she could fix it. Robert Payne, study hall monitor, was recognized for nominating a student for displaying PRIDE characteristics. Russell received an OSU collector’s edition Yatzee game, and Hairston received an OSU collector’s edition Jenga game, both of which were donated by Carla Tedeschi, a former Blendon parent. Payne received a $20 gift card from Half-Price Books.
Blendon’s PRIDE program is aimed at recognizing students and staff who demonstrate core values of being Positive and Respectful, demonstrating Integrity, and being Determined and Engaged. During November, 56 students were nominated by staff members for displaying PRIDE characteristics.