Wooster School 6th Grade Outstanding Citizenship Recognition: Vladimir Schwindeman-Romano of Redding

Written by Middle School Dean of Students, Peter Lingenheld

Let’s think about ‘reputation’ for a second…what it is and where it comes from. If in your mind you picture a student that has a reputation for being kind, courteous, polite, friendly to all, always willing to help…what makes that true? Is it magic? I’d say probably not. When you think of classmates that meet that description, and there are a lot of them here, a lot of you here, where does that reputation come from? I would say it comes from consistency in words: what words you use, when you use them, what you’re trying to express; and actions: what you physically do with your ability to move your body. You add words and actions together over time, and we start to see meaning: kind or unkind, thoughtful or thoughtless, generous or selfish, a problem maker or a problem solver. And every once in a while, like now, it’s important to ask yourself: Over time, what do my words and my actions add up to? Do I act like the person that I’d like to be? Am I known as the type of person that I’d like to be? If you are human, you will likely find some room for improvement, but I hope you will feel glad to know that you come to a school where we want you to identify that room for improvement, and to make those positive changes. We expect you to use language and actions, to build reputations, that add value to your days at school, and that add value to the learning and social experiences of everyone else.

On the subject of reputation, I will just say that our 6th grade honoree is known to an extremely broad assortment of peers and teachers as the type of young person that you want to have around. I will now uncork a flood of such feedback that I have received.

“Vlad is such a great guy! He is always positive and thoughtful. Often if I ask Vlad how his weekend was he will say 'spectacular' or 'superb'. His disposition is sunny and full of joy! I have never had a moment where he didn't seem positive. He works hard. He concentrates and puts his best foot forward. At times he has even asked other students politely to be quiet so that he can do his work! He is well deserving of this award and he will be elated! Thank you!” 

“Vlad worked in Waiter this citizenship period. He never missed jobs and he was never late. He always came up to me to ask what he should do and always completed his tasks. He never asked to leave until he was done. He always had a positive attitude about his work. Keep up the great work, Vlad!”

“Vlad has a great sense of humor when our advisory does conversation starters at lunch. He is always laughing and sharing stories. Everyone knows how much Vlad is willing to help…even before he is asked, he is waiting for the next task.”