Randolph Central School announced its “Students of the Month” for January. Front row, from left: Gabrielle VanOrd, junior, ELA; Emily Beightol, sophomore, art; Olivia Towne, sophomore, health; Kourtney Leeper, sophomore, social studies. Back row, from left: Elaina James, junior, Spanish; Joan Adams, junior, science; Matt Evans, senior, physical education; Savannah Rhodes, freshman, math; Kira Lewis, sophomore, physical education; Troy Wright, freshman, technology. Absent, Kendalle Booth, senior, library. Photo by Deb Everts

RANDOLPH — Randolph Central School has selected its “Students of the Month” for January. The student recognition program honors students in grades 9-12 for their outstanding achievements in leadership, teamwork, class participation, effort, and/or academic standing.

January’s “Students of the Month” are Junior Gabrielle VanOrd, English Language Arts (ELA); Sophomore Emily Beightol, art; Sophomore Olivia Towne, health; Sophomore Kourtney Leeper, social studies; Junior Elaina James, Spanish; Junior Joan Adams, science; Senior Matt Evans, physical education; Freshman Savannah Rhodes, math; Sophomore Kira Lewis, physical education; Freshman Troy Wright, technology; and Senior Kendalle Booth, library.

VanOrd, daughter of Gary and Annette Milliman of Randolph, has been selected for her accomplishments in English Language Arts (ELA). She said English and creative writing are her favorite classes this year.

“English comes easily for me, so I naturally like reading and writing,” she said. “That’s also my hobby outside of school.”

Gabrielle has no specific plans for college, but she’s been thinking about a career in funeral service such as a funeral director or attendant. Although she has not done any volunteering in the past, she would if she had the opportunity.

Leeper, daughter of Neisha Anderson of Randolph, is being recognized for her achievements in social studies.

Although Kourtney is a sophomore, she is already taking 11th-grade courses and will be graduating next year. She plays varsity soccer and, along with her team, has been a Scholar Athlete for two consecutive years. She also excels at track, in shot put and discus, and was awarded “Track Athlete of the Week” last year.

An art lover, she is a member of the art guild. She enjoys spending time with her twin sister, Kara, as well as reading and writing.

“My mom has inspired me the most in my life,” she said. “She has raised my sister and me by herself, and became a nurse on her own. That’s why I want to go into the medical field and attend the University of Buffalo to become an anesthesiologist.”

Adams, daughter of Steven and Jennifer Adams of Conewango, is being honored for her achievements in science.

Joan is a member of the National Honor Society, student council, and is president of the junior class. She excels in varsity basketball as well as volleyball, and was chosen for Second Team last season. She plays drums in the high school band and takes drum lessons at Infinity Visual & Performing Arts, in Jamestown. She also takes dance classes and helps out at her church.

Joan said she enjoys science, but likes history even more. She’s thinking about studying to be a historian or history teacher.

“All the members of my family have inspired me because they are so hard-working and strive to get to their goals,” she said. “It’s nice to be a part of that.”

Rhodes, daughter of Justin and Valarie Rhodes of East Randolph, is being recognized for her achievements in math.

She plays varsity soccer, basketball and softball in school and out in the community where she trains with other people year-round. Whenever she can, Savannah volunteers for community events including last year’s community Thanksgiving Day dinner at the fire hall.

Her future plan is to be a vet when she grows up, but she has no idea what college she will attend.

Savannah said she is inspired by her parents because they both have experienced successful careers.

“My dad has been a professional soccer coach who has traveled and coached across the world. And, my mom has been the president of multiple companies, so she’s been successful with her jobs,” she said.

High School Principal Jason Halpainy said “Students of the Month” are nominated by their teachers from every department who get together and figure out who the outstanding students are in each grade level. They look at whether the students do well for a marking period, if they had an amazing project or if they went above and beyond in the classroom.

Halpainy said each outstanding student is awarded a certificate and something designating the “Student of the Month” status is taped on their locker.