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On the evening of October 29, 2024, Gossler Park Elementary School hosted a Positive Parenting class as part of the Community Schools Federal Grant awarded to the district. The session was facilitated by Gossler Park’s social worker, Stephanie Emmons, and guidance counselor, Jessica Deshaies, and focused on equipping parents with positive parenting strategies in an engaging, collaborative setting.

Typically structured as a seven-week course, the session was condensed into a one-hour overview, covering essential topics in positive parenting: building relationships, understanding behaviors, setting routines and making choices, developing coping strategies, using logical consequences, and creating actionable parenting plans. Emmons emphasized the foundational importance of relationships in parenting, likening them to the base of a house: “Relationships are like the foundation of a house; you have to build that first,” she noted, underscoring the necessity of establishing strong, trust-based connections with children before other tools can be effectively applied.

Parents had the opportunity to connect their personal experiences to the tools and topics discussed, sharing anecdotes about their children and relating to each strategy in a practical, meaningful way. The use of consistent language both at home and in school was highlighted, promoting a cohesive approach between school and family.

For those unable to attend the October 29 session, Gossler Park Elementary will offer another Positive Parenting class on Friday, November 1, 2024, at 2:00 pm, providing another opportunity for parents to engage in these essential discussions and learn new ways to foster healthy, positive relationships with their children.Thank you, Angela Leach, Gossler Park Elementary School’s Community Schools Facilitator for her coordination of this event. If any Gossler Gator parents are interested in the Friday class, please reach out to aleach@mansd.org

The new school year at Beech Elementary School has kicked off with excitement and a strong focus on community, student well-being, and engagement, marking a promising start to the 2024-2025 academic year. From innovative student support programs to increased parental engagement and a dedicated staff, Beech Elementary is creating an inclusive and nurturing environment for its students, staff, and families. An example of this can be found in the lobby, a display creating a friendly competition among grade levels to encourage attendance. 

A Sanctuary for Students: Kerry Crow’s Counseling Room

Kerry Crow, Beech’s dedicated school counselor, has transformed her counseling room into a serene and supportive space for students who need a break during the day. With her room resembling a peaceful oasis, complete with a swing, sensory toys, beautiful art, and a sensory station offering three different paths for self-regulation, Kerry’s space has quickly become a haven. “My biggest goal is to make space for students who were dysregulated,” she shared. This commitment to helping students manage their emotions and find calm reflects her deep dedication to student well-being.

In her sixth year at Beech, where she spent three years as a Kindergarten teacher before stepping into her role as counselor, Kerry continues to provide invaluable support. “I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else but here in education,” she says, demonstrating her passion for fostering a caring environment where every student can thrive.

Welcoming New Staff and Students from Wilson Elementary

Following the closure of Wilson Elementary School, Beech Street Elementary has welcomed a number of Wilson’s staff and students. The transition has been thoughtfully planned to ensure a smooth and inclusive experience for everyone. Efforts to build a cohesive staff community began last year, with Beech inviting Wilson staff to their holiday events, fostering a spirit of unity. For students, the adjustment to new routines and procedures has been an essential focus, with Beech’s supportive environment helping them to adapt and settle in.

Principal Kelly Newman, a former Beech teacher herself, has been instrumental in guiding this process. Her deep connection with Beech’s families and her commitment to students, families, and staff alike make her an inspiring leader during this time of change.

Successful Parent Engagement Night on Growth Mindset

Engaging families in student success is a priority at Beech, and the recent Parent Engagement Night, focused on Growth Mindset, was a resounding success. Over 120 people attended, including 65 students accompanied by parents. The event featured center activities, “growth mindset ninjas,” and interactive workshops to help parents understand and reinforce the growth mindset language used at Beech to foster positive behavior. The high turnout highlights the school community’s enthusiasm for collaborative student growth.

Looking ahead, the next family engagement event will be a paint night in December, where families can participate in a guided painting session led by Beech’s talented art teacher. These events build bonds within the community, creating memorable experiences for students and families alike.

Empowering Fourth Graders through the Student Council

This year marks the second year of Beech’s Student Council, now exclusively for fourth-grade students. A total of 19 students were elected after a rigorous application process involving campaign speeches and written statements about their contributions. The council meets during lunch to plan activities, help with family engagement events, and support new students, fostering a sense of leadership and school pride. Last year, the Student Council’s major project was a “Caring Closet” initiative, and this year, they are set to determine a new large-scale project that aligns with Beech’s values.

Kerry Crow emphasized the importance of giving students a sense of ownership in their school community: “Kids having buy-in at school is important.” In addition to project planning, the council also helps teach practical skills, such as inventory management and cash handling, through activities like selling ice cream at the end of the year.

Balancing Changes with Community Spirit

Beech Elementary has made it a priority to balance the increase in students and staff from Wilson Elementary with the school’s own needs. While Beech has gained new students, they’ve also seen changes in grade levels, now with five to six teachers per grade to support this balance. The school’s administration team, led by Principal Newman, is committed to making this a welcoming transition for all involved, reinforcing Beech’s values of support, compassion, and resilience.

As the 2024-2025 school year continues, Beech Elementary remains a beacon of community-centered education, with a dedicated team working tirelessly to ensure a positive experience for all students and families. With innovative support systems, a welcoming approach to change, and a focus on student and family engagement, Beech Elementary is off to a fantastic start, ready to build a memorable and impactful year ahead.

The Compass School Year Resource Guide 2024-2025 is live!

This resource guide was made in collaboration with the Manchester School District and community partners to create a physical compass for the 2024-2025 school year. This guide acts as a one stop shop to Manchester School District resources as well as resources that cover: basic needs, career connected learning, early childhood services, expanded learning time, health and wellness, and more!

All schools will receive physical copies and any community partners interested in a copy, please reach out to lauren@manchesterproud.org

We are excited to announce that we will have an intern this Fall and Winter! Kaydence is a Senior atand is a recent recipient of the CelebratED Game Changers award.

Kaydence will be working alongside our Community Communications Director on our social media and marketing efforts.

From Kaydence, “Hi I’m Kaydence, a senior at Manchester School of Technology, who is looking to pursue a career in Business and Marketing in the future. Although, I am also planning on taking a GAP year before going into college in order to travel and chase my interests. I am inspired to learn new cultures and views from all around the world and am someone who enjoys writing and learning new skills, so I am looking forward to this internship. Thank you to Manchester Proud for this opportunity.”

Join us in welcoming Kaydence to the team!

Last week, the Manchester School District’s Family Welcome Center at French Hall was bustling with the energy of collaboration and possibility. In its cozy and welcoming Compass Room, 21st Century, a district program designed to extend learning time for elementary and middle school students, hosted a meeting with various community partners to explore potential partnerships.

The 21st Century program is a vital part of the Manchester School District, offering students three key time blocks: academics, enrichment activities that broaden student experiences, and family engagement opportunities. These structured blocks provide a well-rounded experience for students, ensuring not only academic growth but also personal and social development, along with strong family connections.

The meeting in the Compass Room was more than just a conversation—it was a brainstorming session filled with innovative ideas on how community partners can support the program. There was also discussion on how 21st Century can connect its participants to the resources and opportunities offered by these community partners. By facilitating these exchanges, 21st Century hopes to expand the reach of its program and create more enriching experiences for its students.

This gathering was a clear demonstration of how the Compass Room serves as both a resource hub for families and a comfortable environment for community collaboration. The space encourages meaningful discussions and partnership-building, which is key to enhancing the overall student and family experience in Manchester. 

As 21st Century continues to grow, this meeting serves as a reminder of the power of collaboration and the potential that exists when we come together to support our community. The Compass Room, a physical and symbolic space for guidance, is helping chart the path forward for stronger partnerships and a brighter future for Manchester’s students.

Thank you to the community partners in attendance who participated in this conversation, Manchester School District Community School’s facilitators, Scouting America Daniel Webster Council, Center for New Americans, Friends of Aine, UpReach Therapeutic Equestrian Center INC., Girls Scouts of the Green and White Mountains, Access Academy, Statewide Family Engagement Center, and Amoskeag Health.

September was an exciting time for Manchester Proud! We spent most of the month (and considerable time before) preparing for the State of the Manchester School District 2024-2025 Community Forum and CelebratED 2024 Festival. Both of these events highlight the amazing things that are happening within the Manchester School District!

The third annual State of the Manchester School District was held on September 19, 2024, at the new Manchester School District’s Family Welcome Center at French Hall. Hosted in partnership with Manchester Proud, the District, and Greater Manchester Chamber, the event was an evening where local business and community leaders gathered with Manchester School District officials for an update on the District’s progress to date and goals for the new school year. Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jennifer Chmiel and her team impressed us all with their department updates and passion for the success of Manchester’s students.

Here’s a sampling of some of the updates provided during the State of the Manchester School District: 

• The opening of the Manchester School District’s new Family Welcome Center at French Hall
• The Dual-Language immersion program beginning at Bakersville Elementary School
• The beginning of Phase 1 of the district’s facilities plan includes the opening of new modular classrooms and all middle schools unifying to grades 5-8. 
• Two Manchester School District educators are finalists of the New Hampshire Teacher of the Year. One of them being in the final four. 
• The school district has moved transportation into the district. 

After hearing from the District’s Leadership Team, Dr. Chmiel took questions from the audience as well as individuals online. Over 30 questions were submitted, which shows passion and care for the success of our students and schools! 

Riding the success and joy felt from the third annual State of the Manchester School District, CelebratED took place that very weekend. On September 21, 2024, Veteran’s Park was transformed into a festival to celebrate our public schools! This year our celebration of Manchester’s schools and community drew students, families, staff, and community members out into the rain. We filled Veteran’s Park with shining stars despite the rainy weather. During the celebration, we often forgot it was raining! 

The day began with welcoming remarks by our Mayor, Superintendent of Schools, Manchester Proud’s Director of Community Partnerships and Engagement, and our Presenting Sponsor, USI Insurance Services before turning to the 17 student performances and almost 200 Game Changer awards that were given out throughout the day. 

Everyone in the park enjoyed options for multicultural food, free age-appropriate books for all students, and countless activities for kids of all ages.

Here’s a sampling of the festival’s success stories:

• For the first time, we had a Manchester School District pavilion where students, families, and community members could sign up and explore district resources. A big hit of this pavilion was the mock-up of the new Beech Street school! 
• “Music Café”, is an off main stage venue for our high school and middle school students to provide solo performances.
• The “Art Gallery in The Park”, is an enclosed area with a portal entrance to provide a more statured setting for displaying student art. There were 200 linear feet of fence space that unfortunately we were unable to hang up artwork due to the rain but we are exploring the opportunity to display the artwork in another exhibition. We were able to display our “We Love Our School” banners where each elementary school collaborated as a school to decorate their banner. 
• Last year we were thrilled to report that 50 community partners participated in CelebratED to share about their programs and services, this year we are thrilled to have welcomed 62 community partners to Veteran’s Park! 
• Our “Game Changer” awards were added to the presentations, honoring almost 200 students, teachers, and staff from all 20 schools, who were chosen by their principals for going above and beyond to make their schools great. This is the ultimate spirit of CelebratED!
• We celebrated science education with a robotics competition including the Championship robot built by FIRST robotics team, CHAOS 131 
• Manchester Police, Fire, and Health Departments all joined in with horses, ponies, fire trucks, and a dental care van.
• 731 elementary and middle school students participated in our “We Show Up” contest, won by the Smyth Road School and Hillside Middle School. Smyth Road School will enjoy a party sponsored by SEE Science Center and the Puritan Backroom! Hillside Middle School will enjoy a school-wide presentation done by the FIRST Robotics, CHAOS 131 team. 
• Students left with books, book markers, and a boost to their interest in reading.
• Once again, we fed thousands – all free!  We expanded our multi-cultured menu this year to include: Greek pizza, Mexican, Nepalese, Chinese, African, Caribbean, and Mediterranean food, plus Kona Ice for all kids.

All of this was made possible by 26 business partners and our CEAG funding, for helping make CelebratED and State of the Manchester School District 2024-2025 possible. This support enabled us to make CelebratED free to all kids and families. Eliminating cost, communicating in multiple languages, and providing an ASL interpreter for all on-stage performances are all part of our commitment to making CelebratED accessible to everyone in Manchester.

ONWARD to planning State of Manchester School District 2025-2026 and CelebratED 2025!

Manchester Proud recently elected a new Executive Council for their Champion’s Council this summer. We are excited to introduce and welcome the new council members:

• Steve Thiel, Southern New Hampshire University, Chair of the Champion’s Council
• Antonio Feliciano, Boys & Girls Club of Manchester, President of the Champion’s Council
• Paulson Edum, Financial Professional and Advocate for Financial Literacy, Treasurer of the Champion’s Council
• Donna Papanikolau, Manchester School District, will continue her role as Secretary of the Champion’s Council, which she was elected to last year.

We are thrilled to welcome Steve, Antonio, Paulson, and Donna to the Executive Council as they assist Manchester Proud ONWARD! 

We would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to Katie LaBranche, Sandra Almonte, and Donna Crook for their dedicated service on the Executive Council.

In a significant step towards enhancing educational outcomes and community engagement, the Manchester School District has been awarded a Federal Community Schools Implementation Grant.  Manchester Proud will be the lead Community-Based Organization (CBO) for this grant. This collaboration, set to unfold over the next five years, aims to strengthen the ties between schools and the community, fostering a holistic approach to education and well-being.

As the co-lead for this grant alongside the district, MP will play a crucial administrative role in the upcoming year. The primary focus will be on onboarding new staff members, a critical step to ensure that the schools are well-equipped to deliver on the promises of this initiative. In addition to staff integration, MP will be instrumental in coordinating with various community partners to implement a suite of pipeline services. These services are designed to provide comprehensive support to students and families, addressing a wide range of needs beyond the classroom.

The Community Schools model represents the epitome of school to community partnerships, emphasizing the importance of local involvement in the educational process. This approach not only enriches the academic experience but also strengthens the social fabric by addressing diverse community needs through integrated services.

MP’s commitment to supporting the Manchester School District in the implementation of this model underscores the organization’s dedication to fostering environments where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. The collaborative effort also aims to set the stage for the model’s growth and evolution, potentially serving as a blueprint for other districts seeking to harness the power of community engagement in education.

As the partnership progresses, MP and the district are poised to create a sustainable and impactful educational ecosystem, reflecting the true spirit of community schools. This initiative promises to not only enhance student success but also strengthen the bonds between schools and the communities they serve.

Tinotenda (Tino) Duche, a 2020 graduate of Central High School and recent graduate from the University of New Hampshire (UNH), has a story that inspires both on and off the dance floor. Tinotenda moved to the United States in 2017 and has since made a significant impact in her community through her passion for dance. We were able to see this impact during a visit to the Manchester School District’s summer Newcomer program. Tinotenda performed for students and then taught them several dances through an engaging and fun workshop. 

Tinotenda’s journey at Central High School began with a desire to connect and bring together students through dance. In 2019, she founded a dance club, initially starting with just four members. The club quickly gained popularity becoming a vibrant part of school life. They performed at pep rallies and other school events, showcasing a fusion of dances that reflected the diverse cultural backgrounds of the students, including Latin, Congolese, and African influences.

Reflecting on her experience, Tinotenda shared, “I am so grateful for that experience; it brought unity within the school and brought people of color together.” Her efforts not only provided a creative outlet for students but also fostered a sense of community and belonging. Despite having no formal teaching experience, Tinotenda taught herself dance through YouTube videos, choreographing routines that celebrated cultural diversity and inclusivity.

At UNH, Tinotenda continued to be a beacon of cultural awareness and leadership. She served as the President of the Black Student Union, where she organized and participated in various cultural events. One notable event was a fashion show where she choreographed the models’ movements, integrating dance elements into the runway presentation. This role further highlighted her ability to blend cultural expression with leadership, providing a platform for students to celebrate their heritage.

Tinotenda’s journey as an immigrant has deeply influenced her approach to teaching and connecting with students. She often shares her story of learning English through watching “SpongeBob SquarePants,” emphasizing the relatable struggles and triumphs of adapting to a new culture. “Students can relate to me and my own immigrant story,” Tinotenda notes, highlighting the importance of shared experiences in building rapport and understanding.

As Tinotenda embarks on her next journey toward a career in medicine, she remains committed to her love of dance. She will be working part-time with the Bring It program, where she will continue to teach dance to newcomer students, helping them find their own voices and confidence through movement. Her unique background and experiences position her as a role model, demonstrating the power of perseverance, cultural pride, and the transformative impact of the arts.

Tinotenda Duche’s story is a testament to the power of community, creativity, and resilience. As she moves forward, her legacy at Central High School and UNH will continue to inspire future generations, proving that with passion and dedication, one can bridge cultural gaps and make a lasting impact on the world.

On July 19, 2024, Manchester Proud visited the bustling 21st Century Summer Program at Memorial High School. This vibrant program, designed to enhance the learning experience of middle school students, has registered 140 participants, with around 70 attending daily. The visit provided a glimpse into the diverse and dynamic activities that keep these young minds engaged and growing.

During the tour, students were busy across various classrooms, each separated by grade. The creativity and innovation of the students were on full display. One group was engrossed in designing water parks, constructing their imaginative designs using Model Magic. Another set of students participated in Shark Tank-style presentations, showcasing their entrepreneurial spirit. One notable presentation was for “Mr. Cleaner,” a biodegradable cleaning robot with the catchy slogan, “Clean for the world, clean for your home.”

In another classroom, students engaged in discussions about personal values, an exercise that required them to choose five values important to them and eliminate one each round. This activity emphasized the importance of time management and focusing on what truly matters in their lives.

A unique and interactive approach was taken with a group of English Learners (EL) students who played a game involving popular songs. They had to listen carefully and fill in the blanks, practicing their writing and listening skills in English. This engaging method not only made learning fun but also significantly enhanced their language proficiency.

The highlight of the day was a presentation by Northeast Passage UNH, which captivated the entire program. The presentation covered adaptive sports and recreation, the differences between the Olympics and Paralympics, various techniques for adaptive programming, and more. The students were not just passive listeners; they were actively involved in a game of adaptive soccer afterward. This hands-on experience allowed them to understand the challenges and joys of adaptive sports. One student remarked, “This is harder than regular soccer but fun!”

The visit by Manchester Proud to 21st Century summer program hosted at Memorial High School highlighted the innovative and inclusive educational approaches being employed. From fostering creativity and entrepreneurship to emphasizing personal values and adaptive sports, the program is a testament to the comprehensive development of Manchester’s youth. The enthusiasm and engagement of the students are clear indicators of the program’s success in nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared for the future.

Co-Directors announced as Barry Brensinger retires as Coordinator but remains on the Champion’s Council

Manchester Proud (MP) is excited to announce the new leadership team of Debby Miller and Aimee Kereage as Co-Directors. Debby and Aimee will report to the Champion’s Council (Manchester Proud’s Board) continuing the momentum that Manchester Proud has built up over the past 6 years under Barry Brensinger’s leadership. Barry has made the decision to step down from his leadership role to enjoy retirement, he will remain a member of the Council and involved in MP’s work. 

Debby Miller brings over 30 years in executive leadership and community development in banking and non-profits. Debby will be working as the day-to-day keeper of the MP mission, conceptualizing new opportunities, developing strategies needed to optimize the work, providing leadership and advocacy for MP, and acting as liaison to the Champion’s Council.

Aimee Kereage has been with Manchester Proud for 2.5 years now, serving as the Community Partnerships Director. Aimee will now serve as Co-Director and will be leading community engagement and partnership efforts within the organization. Aimee has been actively involved with youth-serving organizations, the Manchester School District, and local businesses for nearly a decade. She is using this experience to create critical partnerships supporting the needs of students and families.

Manchester Proud Champion’s Council Chair, Katie LaBranche details the evolution and continuation of our work, “Our council is excited to see where Aimee Kereage and Debby Miller take Manchester Proud as we evolve. We certainly could not have gotten to this place without Barry’s dedication to our community. I first met Barry 7 years ago when he was canvassing our neighborhood. The questions about our schools and community intrigued me as we had just relocated from Raleigh, NC. I applied for MP’s Community Planning Group shortly after and the rest is history. I have worked with him to guide our council to learn from the community’s feedback, to present the Strategic Plan, create CelebrateED, and plan the state of MSD.  These are no small feats and were made possible by our partnership with the Manchester School District and the many volunteers committed to our public schools. Barry is a mentor and friend; he will be missed in the day-to-day workings of Manchester Proud. Debby and Aimee are a dynamic team and will continue to grow our connections to our community and the Manchester School District. ”

Debby Miller shares her excitement about joining the Manchester Proud team, “I am thrilled to join the leadership team at Manchester Proud. It’s an honor to continue the incredible work Barry Brensinger has championed over the past six years. I look forward to working closely with Aimee Kereage and the Champion’s Council to advance our mission, develop innovative strategies, and create new opportunities to benefit our community. Together, we will ensure that Manchester Proud remains a powerful advocate for positive change and community development.”

Aimee Kereage expresses enthusiasm in stepping into this new role, “I am honored to step into the role of Co-Director at Manchester Proud. Over the past 2.5 years, I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact we can make through strong community partnerships and engagement. I am excited to work alongside Debby Miller and the Champion’s Council to build on our momentum and continue creating meaningful connections that support our students and families. Together, we will strive to make Manchester an even better place for everyone.”

We are thrilled to announce the arrival of our summer interns, Lacey, Jasmerlin, and Santiago! 🥳 These bright and talented juniors from the Manchester School District are joining our team, and we couldn’t be more excited to have them on board.

Our interns will be working closely with our Community Communications Director, Lauren Boisvert. Lauren’s expertise and leadership will guide them as they navigate various communications projects, ensuring they gain valuable hands-on experience and insights into the field.

Join us in giving a warm welcome to Lacey, Jasmerlin, and Santiago! We are confident that their contributions will make a significant impact, and we can’t wait to see all that they will achieve during their time with us.

Welcome to the team, Lacey, Jasmerlin, and Santiago! 🎉

Meet Our Interns

Lacey

“Hello! My name is Lacey and I am a Junior at Manchester School of Technology. I like to draw, watch anime, listen to music, and play video games! I’m very excited to be a part of Manchester Proud!”

Jasmerlin

Jasmerlin brings a fresh perspective and a keen eye for detail. Her enthusiasm for community engagement and her ability to connect with people will be invaluable assets to our team. We look forward to the energy and ideas she will bring to our projects.

Santiago

“Hello! My name is Santiago Hernandez. I’m a junior currently studying at Manchester School of Technology enrolled in a Video & Digital Media Production program. I was born in Venezuela and immigrated to the U.S. Some of my favorite hobbies are playing instruments, such as the piano, and producing music digitally. I’m very excited to work as an intern with Manchester Proud!”

In a heartfelt display of community spirit, Gossler Park Elementary School has come together to support one of their own, Kindergarten teacher Jen Paquin, who is bravely battling cancer. The initiative was spearheaded by Ms. Coole, a Special Education Educator at the school, who hosted a lemonade stand with her class to raise funds for Mrs. Paquin.

Mrs. Paquin has been a cornerstone of Gossler Park Elementary for over a decade, starting her teaching career at the school and dedicating her life to nurturing young minds. Her impact on students and their families is evident, as many have rallied to show their support during this challenging time.

Ms. Coole’s class, a self-contained class with varying disabilities, participates in the lemonade stand project annually as a way to learn essential life skills. This year, they chose to dedicate their efforts to Mrs. Paquin, demonstrating the depth of the school’s communal bond. Students in their pink Gossler shirts, eagerly lined up for pink lemonade, excited to contribute to the cause.

The lemonade stand is just one of many fundraising efforts initiated by the school community. Principal Lori Upham shared her admiration for Mrs. Paquin, stating, “She is an amazing human being and educator. It’s not fair to her to be facing this, but our school community has come up with ideas to support her and her family.” Principal Upham highlighted the overwhelming response not only from current students and families but also from past students and their families. She recounted a touching story of a family whose child was in Mrs. Paquin’s class nine years ago, donating $500 as a testament to the lasting impact she had on their child.

In addition to the lemonade stand, the school has embraced “Wednesday Pink Out for Paquin” every Wednesday throughout the year. This initiative brings the community together in a visual show of support, with everyone wearing pink to honor Mrs. Paquin and boost her spirits.

The fundraising efforts continue, and the school community is determined to provide as much support as possible. Those interested in contributing can purchase a raffle calendar (see below) for $10 each before June 12th, 2024 by emailing Principal Lori Upham at lupham@mansd.org.

The Gossler Park Elementary School community’s unwavering support for Mrs. Paquin is a testament to the strength and unity of the school family. As they rally around a beloved teacher in her time of need, they exemplify the power of community and compassion

At the Tuesday, May 26, Board of School Committee meeting, Manchester Proud presented the 3rd Annual Student Volunteer Award to 4 deserving Manchester School District high school students. The award, which includes a $500 prize, was created to recognize Manchester School District students who show exceptional commitment to volunteerism.

The award winners for 2024, are:

• Patrick Vachon, senior, Manchester Memorial High School
• Helena Florek, senior, Manchester Memorial High School
• Vick Mahindru, senior, Manchester West High School
• Jenna Graf, junior, Manchester West High School

The students met with Mayor Ruis in his office prior to the presentation. 

The recipients were selected from all those who applied for the award and received endorsement from an advisor in the schools or community. Katie LaBranche, chair of the Manchester Proud volunteer Council said, “We are proud of all the applicants, especially the award winners, who exemplify the many Manchester students who volunteer in their schools, neighborhoods and community every day of the year. They represent the very best of our city and its public schools.”

“All students who attend Manchester public high schools are eligible to apply.  Every submission requires an application filled out by the student in which they outline their volunteer experiences and respond to several questions, along with a recommendation from an adult who can vouch for their service.  Grades were not a consideration in the judging.” 

More information on the honorees follows. 

Patrick Vachon

Patrick Vachon is a senior at Manchester Memorial High School. He stated that his goal is “to improve Manchester as much as possible, especially Memorial High School for the incoming classes so they can enjoy it as much as I did during the four years of high school.“

Patrick’s advisor noted his volunteer work in his neighborhood, helping neighbors who cannot maintain their properties, among multiple other volunteer activities.

After graduation, Patrick will attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY.

Helena Florek

Helena Florek is a senior at Manchester Memorial High School. She served as President of Best Buddies, helping to bring students with and without disabilities together to, in her words, “create unique friendships. Through these actions, Memorial High School has become a more welcoming and accepting place for those students with a disability.”

Her advisor supported her selection by saying, “Helena’s participation and leadership in the Memorial High School Best Buddies program is just one example of her character, commitment and drive to be the best student, friend, volunteer and leader she can be. I have no doubt that Helena will go on to do amazing things in college and continue to volunteer and spread inclusion.”

After graduation, Helena will attend St. Michael’s College in Colchester, VT.

Vick Mahindru

Vick Mahindru is a senior at Manchester West High School. 

Vick stated that his motivation to volunteer in many ways comes from the example of mentors who have inspired him to serve the community, regardless of the backgrounds, culture, gender or race of others, so that all can achieve the American Dream, and “leave the world a better place.”

Vick’s extensive volunteer service was cited by his advisor as follows, “I reserve my highest recommendation to Vick Mahindru as one of the most likely to succeed, one of the brightest students, one of the highest achievers and one of the nicest people to come into my classroom. He will more than repay your trust and support your scholarship’s mission with his willingness to learn, participate, and lead.” 

After graduation, Vick will attend St. Anselm’s in Manchester, NH.

Jenna Graf

Jenna Graf is a junior at Manchester West High School.

Jenna emphasized that helping those in need, rather than calculating volunteer hours, is what is important in volunteering, especially when it can create a “safe space for people who have a hard time reaching out for help.”

Jenna’s Manchester West High School GEAR UP Advisor, in supporting her application, stressed that Jenna has served as Junior Class officer, and photographer for the yearbook club. “Jenna isn’t an athlete but doesn’t miss a game so that she can get the best photos of her student-athlete peers. She is very active in the Key Club and eager to volunteer for any task/ project that needs to be done. This includes planning & setting up for school events, nominating others for leadership positions, Weststock, and so much more. Jenna is humble, kind, generous, and empathetic to others.“

Jenna will be entering her senior year at Manchester West High School in the fall.

Proud Moment: Memorial and West both present at BioTrek’s Second Annual Championship Competition 🌟 Congratulations to both teams for their impressive presentations!

From ARMI:

“BioFabUSA created BioTrek, a project-based learning program, to inform, attract, inspire and recruit students.

Developed by BioFabUSA, the program rests on three pillars: engagement with advanced technologies, familiarization with the principals of entrepreneurship and exposure to the education and career pathways that lead into the advanced manufacturing sector. These focus areas are wrapped around a student-led, design-thinking approach that lets participants concentrate on a problem area that holds real meaning for them and apply what they learn about technology and entrepreneurship to a real-world challenge.

Through the research and work associated with the program, students learn how to approach and solve complex problems and communicate their findings to a specific audience. Field trips to companies and universities help students learn how to interact with industry advisors, provide perspective on the professional opportunities available in the advanced manufacturing and technology sectors and increase awareness of the education pathways required to work in these fields.”

Manchester Proud is pleased to announce the relaunch of its website and community portal, “The Compass”, https://www.manchesterproud.org/. The new website has a new modern design and improved user experience. The revamped site now features a community calendar, and a centralized hub for sorting through and discovering local events and opportunities.

The updated website reflects Manchester Proud’s commitment to serving the community and fostering a sense of connection among residents. Key enhancements include:

• New Design: The website has been redesigned with a contemporary aesthetic, making it visually engaging and easy to navigate.

• Translation: The website can easily be translated into a variety of languages for ease of the reader.

• Mobile-Friendly: Optimized for use on all devices, the site ensures residents can access information on the go.

• “The Compass”: Updated and expanded with new community and business partners.

• Community Calendar: The standout feature of the relaunch, the community calendar allows users to explore events by date, category, and location, making it simple to find activities and opportunities to get involved.

• Streamlined Navigation: Improved site structure and menus help users quickly find the information and resources they need.

• Engaging Content: The site offers insightful articles, news, and stories about community initiatives and projects.

“We’re excited to unveil our refreshed website to the Manchester community,” said Lauren Boisvert, Communications Director at Manchester Proud. “The Compass is a valuable tool for families to stay informed about resources and local events. We’re confident this new platform will encourage greater participation and connection within our community.”

Manchester Proud invites residents to explore the new website and take advantage of the Compass to discover upcoming events and opportunities.