Ridgefield School District Celebrates March 2026 Students And Employees Of The Month (Photo) - 03/11/26

On March 10, Ridgefield School District officials recognized the March 2026 Employees and Students of the Month at the Regular Board of Directors Meeting. Congratulations to all of this month’s honorees!

Madden Brandt, PreK at the Early Learning Center

Each day, Madden arrives with unwavering determination and a genuine desire to connect, learn, and fully participate in everything his classroom has to offer. He is joyful, endlessly curious about the world around him, and motivated to build relationships with his peers and teachers. He works diligently to communicate using his eye gaze device, and watching him use it to share his thoughts, stories, and one-of-a-kind personality has been one of the true highlights of our year. His classmates love hearing what he has to say, and so do we! What makes Madden's perseverance so remarkable is that he meets every challenge with heart and grit. He doesn't back down — he leans in. That never-quit spirit shows up in everything he does, from connecting with friends to tackling every task his teachers place in front of him. The growth we have witnessed in how long he is able to stand and work through a task is a direct reflection of his hard work and determination. Every milestone Madden reaches is a celebration, and his joy is absolutely contagious. He is not just growing in confidence and independence, he is inspiring everyone around him. We are incredibly proud of everything Madden has accomplished, and we cannot wait to see what he does next!

Bridget Hanes, 3rd Grade at South Ridge Elementary School

Bridget is a hardworking and attentive student who consistently gives her best effort in everything she does. She listens carefully during lessons and stays focused on her work, which helps her complete tasks accurately and thoughtfully. Bridget is also exceptionally kind and respectful to everyone around her. She treats classmates and teachers with compassion and consideration, creating a positive and welcoming presence in the classroom. Her strong work ethic and caring nature make her a wonderful role model for her peers.

Maddison Hubbard, 4th Grade at Union Ridge Elementary School

Maddison Hubbard deserves this recognition because she exemplifies what it means to be a resilient, persistent, active learner. Regardless of the subject or task, Maddison faces each activity head-on, always trying her best, keeping a growth mindset, and advocating for herself when she needs help. Maddison is also the first one who will stop what she is doing to offer help to a classmate. Her kind, patient demeanor is welcoming, making her a person others feel comfortable talking to, working with, and seeking help from. Because of her ability to self manage in the classroom, whether it be during instruction, independent work time, or transitions, Maddison demonstrates what a responsible leader looks like in school. She shows integrity throughout the day in all settings. Maddison is bright, polite, and motivated to achieve, taking every opportunity offered to push herself to the next level. We have no doubt that she will accomplish great things! 

Melody Penfold, 5th Grade at Sunset Ridge Intermediate School

Mel consistently demonstrates what it means to be a dedicated and determined learner. While school does not always come easily to her, she approaches every challenge with perseverance and a strong work ethic. She is committed to her growth, asks thoughtful questions, and puts forth her best effort in all that she does. Her resilience and determination to improve each day truly set her apart. In addition to her academic effort, she is a kind and respectful member of our school community. She comes to school with a positive attitude and a smile, bringing warmth and encouragement to those around her. She is an outstanding friend who is supportive, patient, and always willing to lend a helping hand. Her classmates know they can count on her to be encouraging and considerate. She exemplifies the character, integrity, and pride that define what it means to be a Sunset Ridge Coyote. Through her hard work, positivity, and commitment to excellence, she serves as a wonderful role model for others. 

Vlad Vorozhko, 8th Grade at View Ridge Middle School

Vlad is a kind, motivated, and helpful student who truly embodies what it means to be a leader. We have loved watching him grow in both his ELA skills and his confidence this year. His leadership and eager participation have made a positive impact in class every single day. Vlad consistently brings a positive attitude to school. He is attentive, works to the best of his ability, and is always willing to lend a helping hand to his classmates. He is kind, empathetic, and enjoys collaborating with his peers. His enthusiasm and love of learning make him a joy to have in class. Vlad works hard in every subject and is always striving to improve. In mathematics, he has shown tremendous dedication to gaining understanding and proficiency. If there were awards for hardest working and most improved, Vlad would surely earn them both! He asks thoughtful questions, stays engaged, and takes responsibility for his own learning. We are so proud of Vlad and cannot think of a more deserving student for this recognition.

Michael Young, 11th Grade at Wisdom Ridge Academy

Michael Young is the kind of student who makes you stop and think about what it really means to do well in school. He's dealt with some serious health challenges that have genuinely disrupted his education. And yet, he keeps his grades up and holds himself to a high standard, not because anyone is pushing him to, but just because that's who he is. But honestly, his grades aren't even the most impressive thing about him. It's his attitude. Michael doesn't complain, doesn't make excuses, and doesn't take shortcuts, even when he'd have every right to. Accommodations exist for a reason, and no one would blame him for using them more than he does. He just chooses to keep going. What's really something is how he manages to stay calm through all of it. He sets high expectations for himself without letting the pressure get to him. Michael strikes a balance that's hard to find at any age, let alone at 16 years old. He's mature in a way that's hard to put into words, and without even trying, he sets an example for everyone around him.        

Gracie Hutchison (Malina) 12th Grade at Ridgefield High School

Gracie is an exceptional student whose curiosity and dedication set her apart. As an AP Scholar with a 4.0 GPA, Gracie approaches learning with intention, consistently asking thoughtful questions, seeking deeper understanding, and pushing herself to grow. Her teachers describe her as inquisitive, kind, and genuinely invested in both her learning and the world around her. Gracie is also a vital part of Ridgefield High School’s theatre program. As a member of the Thespian Honor Society, she brings energy and passion to every production, both on stage and behind the scenes. Whether performing, playing guitar, or engaging with music as a creative outlet, Gracie embraces opportunities to express herself. Beyond academics and theatre, Gracie is known for her positive spirit and inclusivity. She values the guidance of her older sisters and encourages others to communicate openly and advocate for themselves. Gracie plans to study physics next year after high school and with her enthusiasm for learning and growth, there is no doubt she will continue to make a meaningful impact. 

Employees of the Month
 

Janelle Fey, Social Studies Teacher at View Ridge Middle School

Janelle Fey is a tireless advocate for her students, our staff, and our building. She works hard to make our school a better place, whether it be by building lasting relationships with her students and other staff, helping her teammates, or advocating at BLT, she is truly an exemplary educator. She is just plain awesome!

Tyler Freedman, Data Systems Specialist, Central Services

Tyler is part of our team in Central Services, and he has truly taken the “service” to heart. Tyler works hard to support all of the buildings with InTouch Receipting, works closely with Chartwells to support our Food Services team, and most recently has worked hard behind the scenes to support the SchoolLinks rollout. Tyler is the ultimate team player, always willing to help and do whatever it takes to support the district and his teammates. Thank you Tyler for your relentless hard work and support in creating the systems that keep us moving forward.

Ridgefield School District Celebrates February 2026 Students And Employees Of The Month (Photo) - 02/11/26

On February 10, Ridgefield School District officials recognized the February 2026 Employees and Students of the Month at the regular Board of Directors meeting. Congratulations to all of this month’s honorees!

Juniper Hicks, Pre-K at the Early Learning Center

Juniper is our Student of the Month because she shows so much kindness and care for her friends every day. This month, our Character Strong trait is Empathy, and Juniper is a wonderful example of what empathy looks like in action at the ELC. During our morning check-in, when a friend shares that they are feeling sad, Juniper is often the first to notice. She gently asks what is wrong and thinks of ways to help her friends feel better. When friends are sick and cannot come to school, Juniper uses her choice time to make get-well cards to let them know they are loved and missed. Juniper always uses kind words and a calm, gentle voice. She pays attention to how others are feeling and shows empathy by being helpful, patient, and respectful. Juniper is doing an amazing job learning what empathy means and showing it with her actions each day. We are so proud of her!

Hudson Conrey, Kindergarten at Wisdom Ridge Academy

Wisdom Ridge is proud to honor one of our Ridge Connect students, Hudson Conrey, as this month’s Student of the Month. Hudson is a student who truly loves to learn. Whether he is diving into a new book or asking great questions to understand a new concept, his curiosity leads the way. He puts that same hard work into his hobbies, including playing the piano and exploring theater arts. Hudson has even brought his own keyboard to Wisdom Ridge and performed for the staff! However, what makes Hudson truly special is his heart. He is a wonderful friend who is always kind to others. Hudson creates little gifts and brings them to his teacher and principal and is always looking for ways to make people smile. We are so proud to have such a hard-working and caring student in the Ridge Connect program here at Wisdom Ridge Academy! 

Audrey Britt, Kindergarten at Union Ridge Elementary School

Audrey is being recognized for displaying all of the qualities of our Character Strong monthly attributes. Audrey is responsible and respectful, following our school safety expectations, taking care of her workspace, and being mindful of others during carpet time, weekend news, and reading rotations. Audrey is also empathetic to her classmates and her teacher. She cares when others are hurting, notices the feelings of others, and does all she can to make someone’s day brighter. When the class shares mail during Calendar, many of the notes written for friends are written by Audrey. She takes time to write each person’s name and finds such joy in making a friend smile. Audrey also shows perseverance. When learning and practicing something new that may be challenging, such as blending to write and read, Audrey tries hard and then tries again before seeking support. When she is ready to ask for help, she listens carefully and applies what she has learned so she can be successful. Audrey is grateful. She consistently uses her manners, shows joy in the small but fun moments shared in the classroom, and always walks in the door with a positive attitude, ready to learn. Audrey truly exemplifies what it means to be a Tater Tot!

Adam MacLennan, 3rd Grade  at South Ridge Elementary School

Adam is an awesome student who comes to school motivated and ready to learn every day. He works hard, puts his best effort into his work, and he does it all with a smile on his face. In addition, Adam knows right from wrong and holds himself accountable by always being honest. We appreciate Adam's ability to admit mistakes and tell the truth about things even if it might be hard to say. His positive attitude, honesty, and kindness adds so much brightness to our classroom and we are lucky to have him at South Ridge!    

Allison Edwards, 6th Grade at Sunset Ridge Intermediate School

Allison Edwards is the kind of student who makes our Sunset Ridge community proud. She approaches everything she does with determination and a strong work ethic, even when learning feels challenging. Allison doesn’t give up—she asks for help when she needs it, reflects on feedback, and keeps pushing herself to grow. This year, Allison has shown remarkable growth in her confidence and courage as a sixth grader. She is more willing to try new things, take healthy risks, and step outside her comfort zone. That bravery, paired with her kindness, has made a meaningful impact on those around her. Allison consistently strives to do the right thing, even when it isn’t the easiest choice, and she treats others with care and respect. Her perseverance, positive attitude, and quiet leadership truly represent the values of Sunset Ridge Intermediate. We are proud to celebrate Allison and the growth she continues to show each day. 
 

Tedarrel “TD” Flagge, 7th Grade at View Ridge Middle School

Tedarrel, or T.D. as he’s known around campus, is an outstanding student who gives his best effort every single day. He consistently shares thoughtful ideas, advocates for himself, and lifts others up through his kindness and leadership. T.D. is respectful to staff, dedicated to his learning, and a positive presence in every classroom. He shows incredible grit and perseverance, never backing down from a challenge and always willing to try again if something doesn’t go his way. In STEM, T.D. truly shines. He is driven to improve, strives for excellence, and refuses to settle for “good enough.” T.D. is also an exceptional teammate. His peers describe him as kind, supportive, and always ready to lend a helping hand. He consistently demonstrates outstanding sportsmanship, a positive attitude, and a strong work ethic that inspires those around him. Students and teachers alike agree it has been a true pleasure to teach and learn alongside T.D. this year, and we are excited to see all the great things he will accomplish.

Noe Andrade, 10th Grade at Ridgefield High School

We are thrilled to recognize Noe Andrade as the Ridgefield High School Student of the Month. This recognition reflects the remarkable growth he has shown both academically and personally over the past two years. After a challenging freshman year, Noe made a deliberate decision to commit to his learning. Through persistence, openness to support, and hard work, Noe transformed his performance, earning a 3.3 GPA in the first semester this year. Even when learning feels difficult, Noe applies himself and continues to grow. While his journey has not always been easy, Noe has met challenges with perseverance and maturity. Beyond the classroom, Noe plans to try out for the RHS soccer team this year and demonstrates strong character through his respect and quiet leadership. Noe values the advice and support of his brother and recognizes the important role his parents have played in believing in him and encouraging him to reach his potential. We are incredibly proud of you and honored to recognize your efforts. 

Employees of the Month

Allison Templeton, Attendance Secretary at South Ridge Elementary
Allison is an amazing addition to the South Ridge team. She always has a smile for parents, students, and staff members. She prides herself in truly getting to know our South Ridge students and families, greets most of them by name, and makes them feel welcome and safe here at South Ridge. Although you mainly see her behind the front desk, she also is often helping by walking students to class or sitting with an upset student in the lobby. She is a go-getter who sees ways the building can improve and takes initiative to make those things happen. Because of her we have a new system for lost and found items, and a bulletin board tracking grade-level attendance (helping students see how important attendance is). She is always willing to jump into any new task or assignment and brings great ideas with her. South Ridge is so lucky to call Allison ours and she is SO deserving of this recognition! 

Kellie Swindell, ASL Teacher at Ridgefield High School

In just two years, Kellie has built an ASL program that is truly bursting at the seams. The sense of community she fosters is exceptional—her classroom is a place where students feel valued, engaged, and inspired to learn. Her dedication results in learners who can confidently and authentically communicate with members of the Deaf community, a skill that will stay with them for life. Kellie’s students shine beyond the classroom as well, consistently impressing during musical performances across the county and standing out among their high school peers. If you haven’t visited her classroom yet, you should—it’s a joyful, dynamic space that showcases the very best of teaching and learning.