32 Middle School Students Receive Top Honors for Community Service in Dexter

The Dexter Community Schools Board of Education recognized 30 of Dexter's youngest leaders in a special ceremony during its meeting on Monday.

Students, who are part of Mill Creek Middle School's , were presented awards for their efforts volunteering in more than 50 events throughout the community during the school year.

"Community service is a huge part of this class, but through community service, students learn valuable leadership skills and become an important part of our community," Val Berryman, class adviser said. "A lot of groups — from the athletic department to the various service clubs in Dexter — rely on the support from our kids."

Some of this year's projects included raising money for the , a backpack and clothing drive, and a can food drive for Faith in Action.

Berryman said this year's eighth grade class volunteered for 2,000 hours, and seventh grade students volunteered for 1,000 hours.

Several students were recognized for individual milestones, including: Jaime Becker, Lucas Bell, Alex Everdeen, William Feldkamp, Brianna Goff, Melissa Harris, Alyssa Krolewski, Anna Mason, Caitlyn McClendon, Megan Paddock, Danielle Primeau, and Ryann Scherdt. Each student completed 25 service hours.

Students achieving 50 hours include: Michael Bradshaw, Amanda Breuinger, Abby Coogan, Amanda Feleccia, Zoie Gilson, Lexi Heath, Kayleigh McCarthy, Jimmy Morgan, Rachel Mount, and Izzy Shehab.

Students with 75 hours include: Caroline Darr, Mac Guise, Ally Humpert, Blake Leonard, Sarah Lynch, Lizzy Merriman, Kate Mesaros, Caroline Skiver, and Kenzie Wagner.

Eighth grade student Joy Hook completed 150 hours cumulatively during her seventh and eighth grade year.

"The students in the CS&L class make a huge difference at Mill Creek," principal Jami Bronson said. "They set the culture for our building. The power that these students hold is amazing. Without the CS&L class, Mill Creek would not be the school it is today."

Board President Larry Cobler said he was impressed with the students' efforts.

"The character of the students we have at Dexter is one of the most gratifying things for me living in this community," he said.