With the holiday season upon us, we’ve got an extra gift for two of our North Jersey students.
Join us in taking a look back at our winners of the North Jersey Student of the Week poll so far this school year. Read about what school administrators had to say about them and please cast your vote for the Student of the Week: Fall 2024.
This poll will stay open through Monday, Jan. 6. When the poll closes at 5 p.m., two students will be named North Jersey Student of the Week for the fall season. As with the weekly awards, these winners will be recognized in a story. They also will receive portraits drawn of them by artist Bob Rebach, whose work appears in NorthJersey.com and The Record’s weekly Athlete of the Week feature.
The first weekly poll of the new year will launch Monday, Jan. 13. We ask staff and faculty of high schools across North Jersey to nominate students doing something special in their schools and communities through academic achievement, extra-curricular activities and volunteerism for this poll now through Thursday, Jan. 9 at 5 p.m.
Nominees and poll are below photo gallery
We thank school officials who have recognized their students to kick off the 2024 school year and look forward to celebrating more of our outstanding North Jersey high school students in 2025.
The poll for the Student of the Week: Fall 2024 is at the bottom of this story. Before you vote, please scroll down and read a summary of what the nominators had to say about all of the students prior to them being named North Jersey Student of the Week winners.
Domenica Humala, sophomore, Lodi H.S.
Domenica is an exceptionally empathetic and motivated student who has demonstrated remarkable growth since arriving in the United States. An ESL learner herself, she consistently supports other students by translating and explaining concepts in English and Spanish, showing natural leadership qualities. Her willingness to help others while managing her own learning journey is admirable. On the soccer field, Domenica displays the same collaborative spirit, contributing to her team’s success with dedication and skill. Her positive attitude and determination are a source of inspiration for her peers.
Gerson Smith, senior, Lodi H.S.
Gerson is a talented soccer player who has demonstrated excellent skills and leadership on the field. His charismatic personality and hardworking attitude have allowed him to overcome obstacles throughout his high school career and life. He communicates with staff and students in a positive manner that is appreciated by the entire school community.
Kaelyn Brisby, senior, Mahwah H.S.
Besides succeeding in the classroom, Kaelyn maintains several leadership positions, including captain of the girls’ soccer team and an executive member of Student Government Association. Kaelyn’s dedication to the Mahwah community, her warm and friendly personality, and her leadership skills are just a few of the qualities that make her an exemplary student-athlete and Thunderbird.
Julia Ratinov, senior, Fair Lawn H.S.
Julia’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in her impressive 4.25 GPA and her rigorous course load. As a member of the National Honor Society and both the English and French honor societies, she has consistently demonstrated leadership and initiative. Her proactive nature is also seen in her involvement with various student clubs, where she has advocated for sustainable climate solutions and served as a dependable fundraiser and tutor. She is a compassionate and considerate individual. Julia’s intellectual curiosity is not confined to the classroom: Julia’s participation in the Waksman Student Scholars Program, where she successfully sequenced and analyzed her own gene, underscores her dedication to the field of biology.
Maia Pedreira, senior, North Arlington H.S.
Maia has proven herself to be a valuable asset to the North Arlington community. She is a four-year varsity volleyball player, leading her team to many victories. Outside of school, Maia spends her time working with the Muscular Dystrophy Association organizing fundraisers and volunteering at their camp. Maia is a hardworking and dedicated student, earning good grades during her time at NAHS. She plans to attend a four-year university in the fall and pursue a career in school counseling.
Caleb Hosier, senior, Midland Park H.S.
Caleb is a role model for his peers at Midland Park High School. A classroom leader, Caleb is passionate about learning. He demonstrates strong discipline and critical thinking, and effectively collaborates with peers. As captain of both the soccer and tennis teams, he encourages teamwork and inspires his teammates to achieve their best. His dedication to service is evident in his summer mission trips and his volunteer role at vacation bible school. He is captain of the Consumer Bowl team and a member of the chess team.
Aiyhm Alateiat, junior, Paterson Charter School for Science and Technology
Aiyhm, as a captain of the boys soccer team, demonstrates exceptional leadership on and off the field. His commitment to excellence is evident in every game, where he inspires his teammates with skill, and sportsmanship. In addition, Aiyhm plays a pivotal role in the school’s JROTC program where he exhibits remarkable discipline, responsibility and a strong sense of duty all while maintaining honor roll status. His contributions to our school community are invaluable and we believe they deserve to be recognized.
Aracely Villavicencio, senior, Lodi H.S.
Aracely is a student leader, and this is reflected upon her involvement in a dual enrollment in Management at Steven Institute of Technology’s Junior commission and a Youth Group Core leader in the National Honor Society. Aracely works with the local community assisting and creating publicity for the local food pantry and events occurring at the library. Her dedication to both the school and community she lives in is outstanding, as she also works closely mentoring others in order to also take on this role. Aracely takes on a rigorous academic schedule. She values the importance of her academics in order to shape her future.
Teah Mendez, senior, Lodi H.S.
Teah is an exceptional leader as a drum major, coordinating rehearsals and guiding her fellow students with enthusiasm and dedication. Her passion is infectious. Her intelligence and commitment to excellence are evident in both her academics and leadership. She is always eager to lend a helping hand. She uplifts those around her and contributes positively to our school community. Her kindness, initiative, and sense of responsibility make her a role model for all.
Reisa Pellumbi, senior, Lodi H.S.
Reisa is a highly respected and exemplary student. Besides pursuing her Advanced Placement classes, she also earns college credits at Felician University. Reisa is a dedicated member of the Lodi Memorial Library Teen Advisory Board where she contributes her efforts to enhance the library’s offerings for teens. This year, Reisa has taken on the important role of elections poll worker, showcasing her commitment to civic engagement. She is captain of the Rocket Club and treasurer of the Student Council, just to name a few of her exceptional leadership positions. There is no end to Reisa’s dedication to her studies, her leadership roles, and her active participation in both school and community activities.
Juan Miguel Cuervo, senior, Midland Park H.S.
At Midland Park High School, Juan stands out for his intellectual curiosity, passion for computer science, and unparalleled work ethic. Juan’s commitment to the field is evident in everything he does. He has been a dedicated member of our school’s Computer Club for all four years of high school, and his contributions have had a lasting impact on the organization and his peers. His leadership qualities were recognized when he earned the Xerox Award for Innovation and Information Technology during his junior year, a testament to his innovative thinking and technical prowess. Juan’s drive, dedication, and love for computer science make him a truly outstanding individual. He is the kind of student every teacher dreams of having—someone who not only excels academically but who also seeks out opportunities to grow and give back.
Canon Chiu, senior, Northern Highlands H.S.
Known for his leadership, compassion, and dedication to his school and local community, Canon has showcased exceptional skills as a leader as captain of our Drumline and Fencing team, cultivating creativity and promoting inclusivity within both teams. Canon was also a Student Ambassador who assisted freshmen with their transition to high school. Canon is the co-founder and co-President of the Animation Club providing a creative outlet for students. Canon also served as the treasurer on our Student Council. Canon received the Congressional Award Gold Medal in Washington, DC. This is the highest honor bestowed by the U. S. Congress upon youth, and it recognizes remarkable initiative, service, and achievement. Some of the organizations at which Canon volunteered were Scouts BSA, Special Sports Instruction Program, NJ State and local Leo Club, Camp Acorn, USR Historical Society and various charitable organizations. His ability to inspire and support others is sincere and innate.
This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: VOTE: North Jersey Student of the Week: Fall 2024 poll