MAUHS STUDENT OF THE WEEK
Mount Abraham Union High School has named Erik McLysaght as it’s latest Student of the Week. Erik is the son of Susan Blethen and Jonah McLysaght of Starksboro. Erik’s dedication and hard work have earned him this honor. He has made honor roll every semester of his high school years often achieving high or highest honors. Throughout high school he has strived to obtain the best grades he can in preparation for college, taking multiple AP level courses with excellent results. Erik was also nominated to give a testimonial at the Vermont State House in regards to neuroscience’s effect in the classroom.
Erik is also a lauded competitor in the Vermont Brain Bee, placing in the individual top four in the State Brain Bee and helping his team win the team award, which goes to the team with the highest cumulative points. He is a member of the Mt. Abe Jazz Club and the Neuroscience Club.
Erik took many leadership roles during at Mt. Abe, including Neuroscience Club president, peer tutor to the Brain Bee team, and a music department officer. He represented the Jazz band as lead guitarist and participated in a New York City competition, which the ensemble also went on to win.
Erik has also been a proud member of the soccer team since ninth grade. He has been involved in both varsity lacrosse and track and field throughout his four years. Erik has always striven to lead by example. Being in multiple leadership positions, he has learned many skills that will be vital for life outside of high school.
During the summer Erik works at “Summit Soccer Camp,” where he coaches K-4th-graders how to play soccer. He hopes to pass on the skills and knowledge that he has gained to the next generation and loves to see the enthusiasm for the sport on every child’s face.
In his spare time Erik is a frequent adventurist and spends a majority of his time skiing or hiking. When not outside he plays music for hours, honing his guitar skills or learning new instruments. He also enjoys spending time with his friends. Erik says, “Working hard always come before intellectual capacity. I have seen many smart individuals fail to succeed because of their work ethic. I would also advise anyone to try to be a leader in any situation that they can.”
Erik plans to attend the University of Vermont next year with a declared major in Neuroscience. He hopes to enter the medical field, and run with the UVM rescue squad, in hopes to become a doctor later in life.
School Counselor Alan Kamman says, “Erik has always challenged himself to take the most rigorous classes he could.” English teacher Lisa Grzyb adds, “The gears of Erik’s mind are always spinning. His levity and insight prompt thoughtful class discussion.”
The Mt. Abe community wishes Erik all the best at UVM and for all his future plans.
OVUHS STUDENT OF THE WEEK
Otter Valley Union High School has chosen Felicity Lynsey Drew as its latest Student of the Week. Felicity is the daughter of Jennifer Popp of Florence and Michael Drew of Proctor. Her sister, Olivia Drew, graduated Otter Valley high school in 2017 and currently works at The Mountain Top Inn. Her brother, Noah, is in middle school at Otter Valley.
Felicity has worked hard at OVUHS. Currently her most difficult class is AP Literature with Mrs. Roberts.
Throughout high school, Felicity has participated in at least two sports every year. In grades 9-12 she played soccer and basketball. When it came to her senior year she thought she would add in another sport and decided to play lacrosse. She has really enjoyed it.
Felicity has been working at Keith’s Country Store in Pittsford. This paid job helps her learn skills she will need if she were to live on her own. She also babysits, for which she gets paid to nurture children and test her skills for living on her own.
Outside of school Felicity likes to be around family and to go to different sporting events. She also enjoys going for walks.
Of her experience at OVUHS Felicity says, “When going through school, I have learned to be patient. I’ve taken the time that I have had for granted. As a kid I’ve always wanted to go from one thing to the next and speed through things like school. Once you’re done with elementary school you always move on until you eventually end up in college. Slow down and enjoy what you have. Because eventually you’ll be somewhere even bigger.”
After high school Felicity would like to go to college to study to be a Veterinary Technician. She likes being around animals and she thinks that it would be a job she could enjoy for the rest of her life.
Chemistry teacher Larry Gerrior says, “Felicity is an insightful, sensitive, and deeply self-aware individual, driven to explore academics at all levels and disciplines. Throughout the year, Felicity was an active participant in our discussions, and she always supported her peers. Her caring nature and personality allow her to work well with others in a team setting, as she always respects others’ opinions, even when they differ from her own.”
The Otter Valley community wishes Felicity all the best as she moves on from high school.
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 $5 gift certificate to Route 7 Sandwich Co. 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
Countryside Carpet & Paint
Cubbers
Jackman Fuels, Inc.
J.W. & D.E. Ryan
NFP Insurance Benefits & Wealth Management
Peak View Eye Care
Route 7 South Sandwich Company
United Way of Addison County
Vermont Book Shop