Jake McGhee-Miller was recognized at the Board of Education meeting on Jan. 28 for being the first recipient of Wildcat Recognition, a new district-wide initiative to honor students for going above and beyond in the school community.

“I’m thankful the district chose me. I appreciate the recognition very much,” said McGhee-Miller. “I’m not a person to seek out recognition, but I did feel gratitude that I’m being recognized for being a good citizen.”

McGhee-Miller received the honor for assisting Laura Maston, guidance/counseling office secretary. Maston was carrying a large box, laptop and papers from a course fair by the Senior Lounge when McGhee-Miller offered to help Maston.

McGhee-Miller said Maston “graciously declined” his offer, but his kind gesture was not forgotten.

“His care and concern for me as a staff member shows his true character as a student and having a student that shows this compassion and eagerness to help is the type of person we want in our community,” said Maston.

High school Principal Robert Knuschke added, “He’s always very friendly, very conversational, can talk with anyone. He’s very mature for his age with the way he’s able to interact with adults. He’s genuinely a super nice kid and works hard. He’s one of the nicest kids in the building.”

McGhee-Miller is a volunteer firefighter in Sharon, Conn., and is studying construction at Dutchess BOCES’ Career & Technical Institute.

“I hope to work as a union carpenter down the road and work at becoming the best citizen I can,” he said.

“I carry a sense of pride that if anyone in my community is in need, I will help in any way I can.”