Hudson Middle School eighth-graders Grace Yi and Ben Gedeon were nominated and chosen for recognition by the "Kids Making a Difference" program, which is sponsored by Royster Realty and hosted by the Hudson PTO. Eighth-grade Honorable Mentions went to Kelly Gough, Colin Hogan, Olivia Marrali, Connor Nobbe, Madison Romano and Sam Wolanske.
Students selected for this program were nominated by teachers, administrators, staff members and peers at their school. Students were selected for their significant accomplishments or achievements in and/or out of school, and for demonstrating their willingness to help those around them and contribute to their school and community in a positive manner.
Grace, a member of the Red Community, "is a dynamo of a person who is not only academically talented but is also a great kid and fun for her teachers and classmates to be around," according to her teachers. Grace plays the piano and violin, taking classes at the Cleveland Institute of Music and playing in their Camerata Orchestra. Grace's research on the impact of Styrofoam on the environment led her to propose a switch to biodegradable Styrofoam, and she has presented her ideas to the school principal and food services coordinator, as well as City Council members. Grace worked with the Environment Club to collect aluminum and plastics from each teacher every week and cleaned out the courtyards at the school. Grace believes that all kids can make a difference "by always being willing to participate, to help others and to just do their best." Grace's future aspirations include continuing her commitment to environmental efforts as well as becoming a scientist and finding a cure for cystic fibrosis. Grace enjoys writing, tennis, swimming for the Hudson Explorers Aquatic Team, and attending Chinese school to learn Chinese and traditional/acrobatic dance. Her extracurricular activities include Power of the Pen, Model UN and the Hudson Middle School Yearbook committee. According to her teachers, "Grace accomplishes all this with style, remaining humble and kind to others, always willing to lend a helping hand while she is dancing among stars."
Ben, a member of the Purple Community, has demonstrated "respectful behavior and kindness to his peers and teachers" several times already into the young school year, according to his teachers. Ben has made a difference in his community by organizing a beverage stand with friends and neighbors during the Hudson Garden Tour and raising enough money to send two underprivileged children to summer camp. He believes all kids can really make a difference "by taking a little extra time to help someone in need and simply by being kind to others." Ben's future aspirations include attending college, playing football and becoming a doctor specializing in sports medicine. He enjoys playing football, basketball, baseball, music and reading. According to his teachers, "Ben's traits of humility and self-discipline set the stage for a successful school year. Students look up to Ben for his diligence, helpfulness and tolerance in the classrooms, in the school halls and on the athletic fields."
The Hudson PTO congratulates these kids who are making a difference in their schools and community. The PTO thanks Royster Realty for sponsoring this program and for their generous donation each month. The proceeds of their donation will assist the children of the Hudson City Schools.