Ridgewood students, teachers earn top honors

Ridgewood Local Schools announced several students and educators were recognized at the Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center’s 37th annual Awards Ceremony March 4 at Secrest Auditorium in Zanesville. The annual event celebrates outstanding students and educators from districts served by the Muskingum Valley ESC and recognizes excellence in academics, leadership, teaching and creative achievement.

Ridgewood senior Emily Maple was honored as the school’s Outstanding Senior Student, recognizing her academic achievement, leadership and positive contributions to her school community. Maple is involved in the performing arts at Ridgewood, playing in the jazz, marching and concert bands; singing in concert choir, chorale and Syntax Error; and performing on stage with the drama class. She has a leading role in Ridgewood's upcoming musical, "The Addams Family" (April 17-19).

"Emily is an incredible young woman who leads with kindness, hard work and conscientiousness," senior class adviser Jill Collins said.

Choir and drama teacher Haley Evans received the Outstanding Teacher award, recognizing her dedication to student learning and commitment to educational excellence.

Maple said of Evans, "Ms. Evans is always willing to help others. What I find most admirable about her as a teacher is her appreciation for each person as they are."

Preslee Wallace was named the Susan B. Mahoney Writing Award winner, an honor given to students who demonstrate exceptional writing ability and creativity.

Two Ridgewood students were recognized with the Franklin B. Walter All-Scholastic Award, which honors outstanding academic achievement, leadership and community involvement. Ava Rauh-Hill and Natalie Lukco (Coshocton Career Center) were both selected as school recipients of the award. Rauh-Hill also was named the Franklin B. Walter Award winner for Coshocton County, an additional distinction recognizing the top scholar among award recipients in the county.

In addition, Wendy Croy was recognized as Ridgewood’s Exemplary Educator, honoring her impact on students and her dedication to the teaching profession.

The Muskingum Valley ESC Awards Ceremony annually highlights the achievements of students and educators across the region.