The Addison Independent is proud to publish the Students of the Week from area High Schools each week. The students are chosen by teachers and administration from each school who would like to recognize their exceptional engagement in the high schools they attend.
OVUHS STUDENT OF THE WEEK
Brittney Danforth has been selected by Otter Valley Union High School as its latest student of the week. Brittney, or BAD, as she is sometimes called, is the daughter of Brian and Susan Danforth of Brandon. Her brother, Bradley Danforth, is a freshman at Otter Valley.
Brittney has been a very successful student. She is currently enrolled in AP Literature, and has made scholars list and honor roll consistently throughout high school. This past semester she had the wonderful opportunity to intern in kindergarten and fifth-grade classes at Neshobe Elementary School, and she really enjoyed her time with the classes.
Her athletic activities have focused on being outdoors. She has participated in cross country running since 8th grade, Nordic skiing from 7th grade to sophomore year, and tennis since freshman year. She participated in Unified snowshoeing as a junior.
For pocket money, Brittney works at Subway in Brandon and babysits. She has also volunteered with the Brandon Rec. Department in the summer.
When not studying or working, Brittney likes to spend her weekends during the winter skiing at Pico and in summer playing tennis with friends.
To her fellow students she says, “High school years fly by quickly. Enjoy them while you can.” When her high school experience has flown by, Brittney plans on attending college in the fall.
According to Teacher Francis Willard, “Brittney is a kind and compassionate student that is always willing to help a classmate. She is hardworking and not afraid of a challenge.”
Teacher Michelle Cioffredi adds, “Last year, I had the good fortune to have Brittney in my sports medicine class, a dual-enrollment class for juniors and seniors. As a junior … she stood out as one of the most capable, inquisitive and responsible students in that class. This year … she has developed an internship in elementary education. She spends the major part of her school day working in a fifth-grade classroom at one of our local elementary schools. Her mentor teacher describes Brittney as someone the students enjoy working with and they are always glad to see her walk in. She is responsible and shows both flexibility and self-direction as she interacts with students.”
The faculty, staff and students of Otter Valley Union High School wish Brittney the best of luck as she strikes out on her post-high school path.
 
MAUHS STUDENT OF THE WEEK
Mount Abraham Union High School is pleased to present Abigail Nezin as Student of the Week. Abigail lives in Lincoln with her parents, Becky and Chris Nezin. Her older brothers, Lucas and Elias, have both graduated already; her younger brother, Elliot, is in 8th grade; and her two sisters, Adeline and Sadie, are in 5th and 2nd grade, respectively.
Abigail has shown continual growth and achievement at Mt. Abe. As a freshman she made honors, as a sophomore she made high honors, and as a junior she made highest honors. Along with a few classmates, she was chosen by Mt. Abe faculty to represent the school at American Legion Auxiliary Green Mountain Girls State when she was a junior. At Girls State, young women from all over Vermont gather and actively engage in our local and state legislative and political infrastructures. Participants have the opportunity to act as Judicial branch attorneys in mock trials, run for office, spend a day at the State House, and meet with legislators. The two most important things she learned while at Girls State, were the importance of leadership and practicing civic engagement.
Abigail played basketball as a freshman and sophomore, and played field hockey all four years of high school.
When she is not in school, she likes spending time outside and being with her family.
High school has taught her the importance of respect and hard work. “As long as students offer respect for teachers, and work their hardest, most teachers will notice and will, in return, treat students with respect and help them to learn as much as possible,” she says.
After high school, Abigail plans on attending college somewhere in New England, close to home. She would like to study something in the medical field, like nutrition or nursing.
“Abby grew up in a family of six kids,” School Counselor Alan Kamman says. “As the oldest girl, her parents have often relied on her to help care for her younger siblings. She states the following, ‘Being part of a large family, I have learned to be patient, generous and forgiving.’ Abby displays these qualities daily. In addition, she is kind and considerate. Abby has a big heart and would do anything to help someone else. Her genuine concern for people, social justice, and equity, will make her a true asset to any helping profession. “
Field Hockey Coach Mary Stetson states, “She is a student who doesn’t ever call attention to herself. She is consistent, hardworking, and committed to whatever she participates in. She is a strong role model for her peers. Abby is a student who is going places!” 
Otter Valley Students of the week receive a gift certificate from the Book & Leaf Bookstore. Mt. Abe Students of the Week receive a free pizza from Cubbers. Vergennes Students of the Week receive a free sandwich and drink from 3 Squares Cafe. Middlebury Students of the Week receive a free pizza from Green Peppers. Students of the Week from all area high schools will receive a gift certificate from Vermont Book Shop.
With support from:
Barash Mediation Services
Bourdon Insurance Agency
Business Telephone Systems
Champlain Valley Plumbing & Heating
Cubbers
Green Earth Energy
J.W. & D.E. Ryan
Jackman Fuels Inc.
Middlebury Antique Center
Peak View Eye Care
Tinker and Smithy Game Store
United Way of Addison County
 
Vermont Book Shop