By Mark Reynolds
Recently the Marlboro School Board honored their first Students of the Month for the 2026-27 school year.
Moriah Keys was introduced as the Marlboro Elementary School Student of the Month by Assistant Principal Kyle Wright. He brought up teacher Christine Williams to speak about Moriah.
“She’s a very talented and creative artist. She always works hard to make her art the best it can be and she is so attentive during lessons [that] when I am teaching I feel like I can see her creative wheels turning before I’m even done. I love to see what she comes up with,” Williams said.
Williams said Moriah loves to draw landscapes.
“I was surprised because I don’t think I ever saw her draw one in my class; I only saw her draw figures and people and she said that is not what I’m best at, so I keep practicing to get better. I think that speaks volumes about the type of artist and person she is.” Williams said.
Williams read comments from other teachers: Kara Rooney said, “Moriah has great energy and is fun to teach; Librarian Maureen Stalter said Moriah always loves to help others, is an excellent reader and is an absolute pleasure to have in class; Music teacher Susan Johnston said Moriah is a kind and empathetic student who always brings a wonderful energy to the classroom, from singing to dancing, playing instruments and reading music, she is always putting in her best effort and making those around her smile.”
Williams concluded by saying, “Moriah, we all love having you and we can’t wait to see all the amazing things you’re going to accomplish this year.”
Middle School Assistant Principal Demian Stanmyer said he has known Sullivan Davis for three years, “and I can’t stress enough what a wonderful, tremendous choice she is for this award. I can always count on Sully for a giant smile and a big hello and she’s just constantly a ray of sunlight. We’re going to miss you next year.”
Teacher James Ventriglia describes ‘Sully’ as, “inquisitive, responsible and someone who has a positive mindset day in and day out. Sully always asks thoughtful questions and respects everyone’s point of view during class discussions.”
Principal Alicia Gannello said Erin Nagel highlighted Sully’s academic excellence in science.
“Sully’s exceptional dedication and enthusiasm toward learning, consistently provides insightful, well-considered responses during discussions,” Nagel said.
Hayden Carlin said, “Sully is always engaged in what we are learning and she is a reliable contributor to class discussions. She brings a positive attitude to the class every day that positively affects all of her classmates.”
Steven Grey said Sully, “exudes hard work and dedication while always having a positive attitude. We all agree that Sully is a remarkable student, is kind-hearted and is always ready to lend a hand to those around her. We are honored to name Sullivan Davis our Student of the Month.”
Laya’ Thompson is the Marlboro High School Student of the Month. Principal Ryan Lawler said Laya’ “is an amazing senior. She has been contributing as a student, giving feedback about ways to improve our school for 4 years and it’s no surprise that she is a student board representative. She has made a great difference for us and has contributed to a positive school culture and climate.”
Social Worker Meghan McMahon‑Vigeant commented that, “Laya’ is a strong and motivated student who approaches every challenge with focus and determination. Laya’ is a leader at Marlboro High School and approaches her role as a quiet, dependable and humble leader and shows up every single day and works hard. She is a member of the National Honor Society, No Place for Hate, SALT, Student Voice and is a Cheer Captain at student games. She has shown a commitment to making Marlboro High School a welcoming place for all students and values the voice and perspectives of her peers. Laya’ treats all students with kindness, handles her responsibilities with grace, is a role model and an incredibly deserving Student of the Month.”