Principal Ira Michaud quoted French poet Edmond Jabes in describing the five 2021 Edgecomb Eddy School sixth grade graduates. Jabes once said “The question creates and answer kills.” Michaud said current society’s need for a quick answer often stops further examination of an issue. “I love this quote. You don’t do this,” Michaud said. “You delve deeper and ask questions which often results in more questions. This quality makes you wonderful to work with and will serve you well as you proceed through life’s path.”

Each graduate received a few kind words as they graduated. Eva Whitmore was described by her classmates and school staff as “Expressive, playful, mischievous and wildly creative.” Whitmore spent two productive years at the school. She received the Eddy Award for Creative Arts. Music teacher Jennifer McIvor recalled the first time Whitmore performed a trumpet solo. “It was evident on the first day you were comfortable performing with peers,” she said. “This year, your leadership and collaboration working with classmates with the concert video, and your duet dance with Charlotte (Abello) were beautiful. Whitmore also received the Sara Leone Citizenship Award, which is presented annually. Teacher Jennifer Gosselin taught Leone in her kindergarten class. She described Leone as “someone who made a strong impression on friends, staff and community.” The award goes to a student who shows Leone’s traits of “openness, compassion, helpfulness and kindness,” according to Gosselin.

Charlotte Abello received the Academic Award, which is based on schoolwork and Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) standardized national test results. Sixth grade teacher Julie Browne reported Abello scored above the national average in math and literature. “Charlotte is so unique and has strengths in many areas. She always performs to the best of her ability with confidence and a smile,” Browne said. “She has deep love of learning, a strong curiosity and work ethic that pushes her through any challenge.”

Abello described her time at Edgecomb Eddy as a valuable educational experience. “This is the only school I’ve ever known,” she said. “It helped me discover ‘Who I am’ and bloom into a person that I’m today. I’ve made so many friends and relationships, the school is like my second home.”

Classmates and staff described Abello as “curious and intelligent.”

Classmate Jayden Orne was described as “a fierce athletic competitor, tenderhearted and a kinesthetic learner.” Graduate Royce Rogers was described as “loyal, wicked cool and driven.” Graduate Mathew Scarborough was described as “100% comedic, boldly courageous, sensitive and loyal to the people in his life.”

Another Abello was also recognized by the school staff. Outgoing Edgecomb School Committee Chairman Tom Abello received a framed certificate of appreciation. “You are a special member of the community. You are here as a parent and as a former school board member. You’ve dedicated countless hours of service and were a fierce EES supporter,” said Browne.