Bristol Public Schools honors students and staff at 38th annual achievement award ceremony

The Bristol School District held its 38th Annual Staff Achievement Awards and CABE Student Leadership Awards on May 8, 2025, celebrating the exceptional contributions of both staff and students. The event highlighted the district's commitment to recognizing outstanding performance and leadership within its schools.

Deputy Superintendent Mary Hawk opened the ceremony by emphasizing the importance of the Staff Achievement Awards, which honor individuals who have gone above and beyond in their roles. The criteria for these awards include innovation, improvement in instruction, and inspiring leadership. This year’s recipients included Christine Karath, James Hahn, and Megan McCarthy, among others, who were recognized for their exemplary service and dedication to the Bristol Public Schools community.

Following the staff awards, the CABE Student Leadership Awards were presented to students from various schools who demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities. Each school principal introduced their awardees, highlighting their achievements and contributions. Notable recipients included Lisette Castillo and Matt Mauriello from Bristol Central High School, both of whom have shown remarkable commitment to community service and leadership throughout their high school careers. Castillo, who will attend the University of New Haven, has been actively involved in numerous school initiatives, while Mauriello, set to attend the University of Connecticut, has logged over 300 hours volunteering at Bristol Hospital.

Bristol Eastern High School recognized Kylie Sotula and Luke Lupienc for their leadership and academic excellence. Sotula, who will pursue nursing at Regis College, has been instrumental in various school-wide initiatives, while Lupienc has excelled in athletics and leadership roles, preparing to attend American University.

The ceremony also acknowledged students from Bristol Preparatory Academy, Chippens Hill Middle School, Northeast Middle School, Green Hills School, and West Bristol School, each showcasing the diverse talents and leadership skills of the district's youth. Students like Nana Santos and Alvin Torres from Bristol Prep, Nicole Rodriguez and Lola Akin from Chippens Hill, and Gavin Martin and Yulia Samaluk from Northeast were celebrated for their positive impact on their peers and school communities.

The event concluded with a strong sense of pride in the accomplishments of both staff and students, reinforcing the Bristol School District's mission to foster leadership and excellence in education. As the district looks ahead, the recognition of these individuals serves as a reminder of the vital role that educators and students play in shaping a supportive and thriving educational environment.