Megan Bianchi- Academic Standout January 31st

Academic Standout Recognition

Date: January 31st, 2022

Student: Megan Bianchi

House Team: Ramshead Peak

Presenter: Jessica Sardelli

The KMS teaching faculty are proud to recognize Megan Bianchi as this week’s Academic Standout! Megan is a U19 Women’s Alpine athlete, who comes to KMS from Hingham, Massachusetts. Megan received several strong nominations from her teachers, all of which agree that she is one student who showcases on a daily basis the excellence found within our academic program!

Putting for the first nomination is Social Studies Department Co-Chair and Middle School Humanities teacher Ian Groezinger. Ian writes, “Megan joined my elective, Power to the People, when she arrived for winter-term. Even though she jumped into the course mid-year, Megan hit the ground running and has been nothing short of stellar. She has a knack for analytical writing, being sure to eliminate any sense of bias while addressing all avenues of perspective. In addition, Megan shares insightful, thought-provoking comments during class to help drive our discussions forward, particularly in answering the proverbial "so what?"’

Seconding her nomination is Social Studies Department Co-Chair Courtney O’Keefe. Courtney reflects, “It is with excitement that I put forth a nomination for Megan Bianchi this week for Academic Standout! From our very first AP US History class this year, Megan has proven herself to be an exceptionally hard working and self-directed student. She is highly engaged and motivated, meets any and all challenges with purpose and drive, and works diligently on all assignments and assessments with the sole goal of improving upon her already strong academic skills. She is naturally inquisitive, loves asking questions, and is open to looking at the history she is studying with a critical eye and an openness of mind. Taking an AP level US history course is not easy, it requires much in the way of time management, commitment, and dedication to diving deep into the complex nature of our nation’s history. Megan meets the associated challenges of such a class with a level of grit and determination that rivals many of her peers. Her work quality is always impressive, yet she continuously strives to improve. This proves that she is destined to be a lifelong learner, a quality that is needed more than ever in our current world. Overall, Megan is an asset to the classroom, a true leader as well as collaborator in discussion, and is a pleasure to teach. Congratulations, Megan! A recognition well-earned and well-deserved!”

Sports Performance and Psychology Specialist and Wellness Coordinator Jessica Sardelli, who is also Megan’s advisor, also supported Megan’s recognition this week. Jess reflects, “I have been Megan's advisor for two years now, and I continue to be amazed at the hard-working, driven, mature, talented, and wonderful person she is. Although I do not have Megan in academic classes, I am able to observe her efforts and work-ethic both academically and athletically. She demonstrates exemplary balance as a student-athlete, with her head in the game of both worlds and always pushing for excellence. Her drive and academic achievements are most deserving of this award. I am beyond excited to see what is in store for Megan!”

Winter-term Math and Science teacher Susan Cushing also supported this nomination. Susan comments, “Megan is a hard-working, dedicated Physics student. She is inquisitive and possesses good analytical skills, working hard to fully understand the concepts taught. Megan is a responsible, respectful student with an eagerness to learn and never hesitates to step up and work through problems in our class. Well-done and well-deserved.”

Adding to Megan’s write-ups is English Department Co-Chair Shayna Miller. Shayna states, “Every winter, Nate and I are thrilled to have Megan back in our classroom. Her pleasant disposition, genuine thirst for knowledge and ever-apparent positive work ethic make her an ideal student of English. No matter what task is asked of her, Megan always approaches it with a “what-can-I-contribute-here” attitude. Furthermore, she does so with a smile underneath her mask, never complaining. Congratulations, Megan. And from the English Department, thank you!”

And rounding out these amazing write-ups is Math Department Co-Chair Allison Resnick. Allison writes, “Megan Bianchi is such a great student. She doesn’t stand out one week from the next as she is a constant stand out and a model student. She works hard, asks questions, and communicates well about upcoming travel. Megan is a pleasure to teach as even while doing math she always has a smile on her face. This academic standout is well-deserved.”

Congratulations, Megan! We are very proud of your hard work and dedication! Well-earned and well-deserved!