Shaker Middle School sixth grader Natalie Cehowski is being recognized as the April North Colonie Kids Care recipient for her kindness and inclusivity.
Natalie was nominated by Ms. Brook Greco, a Shaker Middle School music teacher, who was also one of the directors of the SMS musical “Willy Wonka” this spring. Natalie was a member of the cast in the musical and emailed Ms. Greco to ask if they could do a performance for the five communications classes, which are made up of about 35 special education students. Natalie didn’t stop there. She continued to follow up with emails and in person conversations with Ms. Greco until they could make a concrete plan to perform for her classmates. Ms. Greco says it was truly Natalie’s suggestions and perseverance that made this special performance possible and that it was so much fun not only for our students and staff in the audience, but for the cast and crew as well.
Natalie’s parents had this to add about their daughter… “Even with starting at the new school this year Natalie stayed true to herself, always trying to be inclusive to all her classmates. She also thrived in other aspects of her school life. Natalie joined the student council this year, the school play, picked up travel basketball to add to her first love softball all while making the high honor roll the first two quarters of the year so far. She has stayed true to herself, and excelled so far in her middle school career.”
Congratulations Natalie and thank you for the kindness you show all students, teachers and staff on a daily basis. You are a wonderful representation not only of Shaker Middle School, but of the entire North Colonie Central School District.