Westford Academy Names Four Students Of The Month For October

The following was submitted by Westford Academy. To submit your own content, e-mail asylvia@westfordcat.org

Ben Balian

Ben Balian, son of Mr. & Mrs. John Balian was named Student of the Month for October.  Mr. Antony DiLeo, Ben’s Varsity Soccer Coach, nominated hismin the area of Athletics.  Mr. DiLeo writes: Ben is a co-captain of the boy’s varsity soccer team and starting central defender.  As a soccer player, Ben is one of the leagues’ best.  He reads the game extremely well, and therefore has great anticipation.  Combined with his athletic ability and soccer skills, Ben disrupts opponent’s offensive attacks before they can present problems.  One on one, he is unbeatable.  Not only can he defend, but immediately transitions to offense, many times dribbling forward and becoming an attacker.   When needed, Ben will move forward to become a third striker, where his speed and technical skill allows him to be a great playmaker. 

 More importantly, Ben is an outstanding leader.  His leadership on the field is displayed daily.  He has an engaging personality and has stepped forward to get his team mates focused toward their goals.  He has worked extremely well with is other co-captains, sharing responsibilities and displaying respect for each other and all members of the team.  Ben has embraced the younger members of our team and worked with them to teach what it takes to be successful. He is confident in his abilities and very willing to discuss tactical and technical issues with the coaches.  He has taken a leadership role in all off field activities, being the one to organize and schedule things and getting everyone to be involve.                                                            

 I recommend Ben as student of the month not only as an outstanding soccer player but as a role model leader.

Olivia Overington

Olivia Overington, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Mark Overington was named Student of the Month for October.  Mr. Michael Towers, Olivia’s Acting II and Directing I teacher, nominated her in the area of Co-Curricular.  Mr. Towers writes: Olivia has been named the Assistant Choreographer in WATA’s fall production of Young Frankenstein.  In this role, she has held the responsibility of learning the choreography from Boston professional Choreographer Larry Sousa and teaching/reinforcing/supporting it for WA students.  She has worked tirelessly for the past eight weeks.  She holds regular rehearsals  where she teaches and drills while continuing to communicate effectively with the adult professionals on staff.  Larry was so impressed with her work that he allowed Olivia to choreograph one of the numbers in the show (a first for a student at WA.)

Caroline Zacharchuk

Caroline Zacharchuk, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Charles Zacharchuk was named Student of the Month for Ocober.  WA Social Worker, Mrs. Patti Lonergan, nominated her in the area of Special Recognition.  Mrs. Lonergan writes: This is Caroline’s second year working with me as a Peer Counselor.  Caroline helps to run groups focused on promoting self-awareness, self-advocacy and pro-social behaviors.  Caroline has worked with a variety of different students and ALWAYS brings her A-Game to group.  She asks insightful questions, responds to feedback and fosters the relationships made in group, outside of group.  Caroline is a true gem and I am very lucky to have her assistance in group. 

David Gillett

David Gillett, son of Mr. & Mrs. Richard Gillett was named Student of the Month for October.  Ms. Stefanu Albu, David’s Biology teacher, nominated his in the area of Academic.  Ms. Albu writes: David’s enthusiasm and thirst for knowledge is simply contagious!  It is clear that David is a team player who motivates those around him toward developing critical thought, creativity, and inquisitive problem-solving strategies.  Regardless of the situation David is in, he exudes a radiant and relentless sense of positivity, confidence, and collaborative prowess.  Congratulations on the exceptionally strong start in AP Biology!