Celebrating Student Achievement: The George V. Colella Awards Shine Bright

A Celebration of Academic Excellence in Revere

Every year, the city of Revere, Massachusetts, shines a spotlight on its most promising young scholars through the prestigious George V. Colella Academic Achievement Awards. Recently, during a city council meeting, nine exceptional students received recognition for their hard work, commitment to education, and exemplary citizenship.

Honoring a Legacy of Support for Students

The awards, which include a $200 honorarium and a certificate, are not just a token of appreciation; they are a testament to the legacy of former Mayor George V. Colella. His vision for an educationally enriched community laid the foundation for this celebrated program, which has now awarded nearly $16,000 to students over its 11 years. As City Councillor Paul Argenzio stated, "Mayor Colella conceived of the awards program and arranged for the personal funding...His foremost personal legacy was in providing the best quality education for the young people of our city." This steadfast dedication resonates through every award given, and its significance extends beyond mere recognition.

Empowerment Through Education: The Award Winners

The George V. Colella Academic Achievement Awards honor one fifth grader from each of the city’s six elementary schools and one eighth grader from the three middle schools. This year's recipients include:

• Eighth Graders:
• Marco David Spiriti – Garfield Middle School
• Narolyn Baez Rodriguez – Rumney Marsh Academy
• Tyler Pham – Susan B. Anthony School


• Fifth Graders:
• Juliette Calderon Tejada – Beachmont
• Fartun Kastani – Garfield
• George Fotiadis – Hill
• Tavleen Kaur – Lincoln
• Gioia Sciaraffa – Paul Revere
• Ariana Delplank Bastianeli – Whelan

These young scholars are not just succeeding academically; they are also excited about their futures. As they prepare for high school and college, they embody the spirit of hard work and dedication Mayor Colella envisioned.

Community Support: A Vital Component

The success of the Colella Awards program is deeply rooted in community support. During the recent council meeting, Mayor Patrick Keefe emphasized the significant role that previous mayors, such as former Mayor Brian Arrigo, played in maintaining the funding for the awards. The commitment from the city to secure ongoing financial support reflects the collective belief in nurturing future generations.

This collaborative approach ensures that students remain inspired to strive for excellence. "I have to mention this, Carol Tye always talks about how readers are good writers, and writers are good readers," said Mayor Keefe, spotlighting the meaningful contributions of community members who promote educational success.

Encouraging Future Generations

While awards ceremonies celebrate triumphs, they also serve as reminders of the importance of continued dedication to education. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Dianne Kelly reinforced this message, saying, "All of this year’s award winners are worthy and live up to the expectations of what Colella had in mind when he created the program. We must continue to support students' progress from elementary and middle school into high school and beyond." This philosophy highlights the educational journey, encouraging young learners to pursue their ambitions.

The impact of programs like the George V. Colella Academic Achievement Awards can create ripples of inspiration, motivating peers to strive for their own academic and personal goals. In a world where challenges abound, community resources that advocate for student success offer hope and encouragement to navigate those hurdles.

The Importance of Recognition in Education

Recognition like this not only rewards individual efforts but also cultivates a culture of achievement within schools. Awards possess the power to motivate students and promote a sense of belonging and community pride. As Carol Tye noted during her years as the ceremony host, the importance of acknowledging young talent is fundamental in fostering an environment where learning thrives.

Taking Action Toward a Brighter Future

As the community continues to support educational initiatives, it's essential for individuals to take an active role in enriching the lives of young learners. Whether volunteering time, supporting local education funds, or championing the cause of student recognition, every contribution counts. The future of Revere's students—and indeed the country—depends on the efforts made today to create fertile ground for growth and education.

In conclusion, let the George V. Colella Academic Achievement Awards remind us of the impact of community, commitment, and the importance of nurturing young minds. Celebrate these achievements and aspire to make a difference in the lives of our future leaders.