Dear INDY Families -  We are proud to share that Norah S. from Ms. He’s 5th grade class has been selected as Independent Elementary’s Student Citizen of the Year, sponsored by the Castro Valley Chamber of Commerce. This award honors one student from each school who demonstrates outstanding leadership, character, school involvement, and community impact. Students submitted essays sharing examples of how they demonstrate responsibility, initiative, cooperation, and contributions both in and outside of school. From there, teachers selected six finalists—Anna D. and Neelam J. (Mr. Balassone), Violet N. and Payton G. (Ms. Cox), and Erik K. and Norah S. (Ms. He)—who participated in an interview process with the 5th grade team and myself, using a common rubric

All six students demonstrated these qualities in meaningful ways, and we are incredibly proud of each of them. Norah stood out for her innovative thinking and the impact her ideas have had on our school community. When she recognized a need to better center student voice, she worked with her teacher to create a student newspaper—an idea rooted in problem-solving and inclusion. She also shared this work at a Friday Assembly, encouraging other students to get involved and contribute their ideas.

Beyond her ideas, Norah consistently leads with kindness, responsibility, and a genuine care for others. She represents INDY in a way that makes us incredibly proud.

Please join us in celebrating Norah and this well-deserved recognition!

PHS