McCann Student Receives Superintendent Award

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — McCann Technical School senior Amanda Vallone has received the Massachusetts Association of Superintendents Outstanding Student Award.

The School Committee applauded Vallone, of Clarksburg, on Thursday for her achievements at McCann and on being the recipient of the award, presented by the association to one student from each high school in Massachusetts.

"We congratulate you, and we know it is the family and the values you have but it is you every day being diligent, working hard, and taking that challenge," Superintendent James Brosnan said. "You make us proud, you make McCann proud, there is no doubt you make your family proud, and you make yourself proud."

Director of Student Services Mary Lou Accetta listed Vallone's successes that include membership to SkillsUSA, vice president of the National Honor Society, the highest grade-point average in her class, and second-place winner in the automated manufacturing technology district competition.

Accetta also read some quotes from Vallone's teachers.

"She is a very unique student, and she has a strong work ethic. She demonstrates a tremendous ability to adapt to new tasks, and she always strives for perfection."

"Amanda is a talented person with the skills, determination, and work ethic to accomplish any goal. She is the type of student that every single teacher wants in his or her classroom."

"Amanda is arguably the most patient and persevering student I have ever taught. She keeps going until she has solved the problem. She is creative and she constantly exceeds by expectations. She is also an exceptionally nice person who gets along with everyone, and I have no doubt she is going to go out there and change our world."

School Committee member James Gazzaniga said he anticipates Vallone will have many accomplishments in her life.

"We are aware of some of your achievements," Gazzaniga said. "I say some because I have a strong feeling there are going to be a few more down the line. It's not an accident you are a role model."

Vallone plans to attend Green Mountain College in Poultney, Vt., where she wants to study psychology.  

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