(November 7, 2024) Five Rochester City School District students have been honored with the prestigious “Do the Right Thing” award for their exceptional acts of courage, kindness, generosity, leadership, and maturity. These students were recognized for their positive contributions to their communities, schools, and families.
Kireid Champion, a 7th-grade student at Loretta Johnson Middle School, was nominated by Rochester Police Department Sergeant Todd Wassinger for his quick thinking and bravery. This past spring, Kireid called 911 to report an emergency. He met the responding officers, led them to the location where assistance was needed, and provided essential details about the situation. Officers commended Kireid for his strength and courage in handling the situation.
Seaonna Distefano-Moore, a 6th-grade student at Austin Steward Elementary School No. 46, was nominated by her 5th-grade teacher, Jennifer Quinn, for her honesty. One morning, Seonna was given a $100 bill by another student. Instead of keeping the money, she immediately gave it to her teacher when she got to school, ensuring it was returned to its rightful owner.
Kam’ron Penn, a 6th-grade student at The Flower City School No. 54, was nominated by his grandmother for his dedication to community service. Kam’ron volunteers every Saturday morning at his church’s food and clothing ministry, contributing four hours to help those in need.
Anthony Rosario, a 6th-grade student at Ida B. Wells-Elementary School No. 34, was nominated by school social worker Annie Miraglia for his heroic actions during a crisis. Anthony’s sister was hit by a car while the two were playing in their neighborhood. Anthony immediately ran over to help his sister, who was pinned under the vehicle. Ms. Miraglia says Anthony’s actions reflect his character, and he is a guardian angel who deserves to be recognized.
Prynce Watson, a kindergarten student at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. School No. 9, was nominated by his PreK teacher, Joseph Dobucki, for his quick-thinking during recess. When Prynce’s classmates found a knife on the playground, he promptly walked over to Mr. Dobucki and handed it to him, preventing any potential harm. His actions helped ensure the safety of everyone on the playground.
The goal of the “Do the Right Thing” program is to foster positive relationships between the Rochester Police Department and community youth. The program rewards students who strive to make good choices, do well in school, give back to their communities, or demonstrate a turnaround or improved behavior. For more information or to nominate a child, visit www.cityofrochester.gov/DotheRightThing.
