Congratulations to Benjamin Drechsel, fifth-grader at Melrose Elementary School; Emily Drake, a seventh-grader at Fremont Middle School; Phoenix McCullough, a junior at Roseburg High School; and Ava Bryan, a senior at RHS. These students were recognized with Exceptional Student Awards at our April School Board meeting.

Each month, students are chosen by their schools to be honored at our School Board meetings. Students may be recognized for a variety of achievements and successes such as academics, community-mindedness, character, positive influence, and extracurriculars.

Here’s what their schools had to say: 

Ben is a well-rounded student who excels in and outside of the classroom. He loves to take on a challenge and is extremely goal oriented. He is well respected by his peers and teachers. He is dependable and flexible, collaborating and valuing all his peers' input. He is an avid skier and runner. In 4th grade he competed in the Melrose Mile in the spring and ran over 100 miles over the course of the school year during the walk-run club. He is on his way to meeting this goal again this school year. In addition he led his school Oregon Battle of the Books team as the spokesperson, making it to the regional competition. Joining leadership this year is a new role Ben has taken on and is excited about. Ben embodies everything it means to be a Bulldog.

Emily is the definition of a quiet leader. She may not always be the loudest voice in the room, but her actions speak volumes. Across her classes, Emily consistently leads by example through her kindness, responsibility, and genuine care for others. In the classroom, Emily is thoughtful and engaged, contributing meaningfully to discussions and always striving to do her best. She approaches challenges with maturity and curiosity, often seeking out extra challenges in math and supporting her classmates with patience and kindness. What truly sets Emily apart is her heart for service, including helping set up for a special education music class, and her positive attitude toward others.

Phoenix is a thoughtful, self-motivated student with a strong work ethic and exceptional attention to detail. Quiet yet highly engaged, he consistently produces stellar work and gives his full effort in everything he does. In Advanced Medical Skills, Phoenix is a critical thinker who leads by example and supports his classmates with kindness and respect. He is always on time, maintains a positive attitude, and is a pleasure to have in class. Through his internship at Pearson’s Funeral Home, he is pursuing his goal of becoming a funeral director, a path he is well-suited for given his professionalism and care.

Ava is an exceptional student whose strong work ethic and genuine curiosity set her apart. She consistently seeks deeper understanding, earning top marks while demonstrating perseverance, including excelling in Honors Biology and Medical Terminology. Ava is kind, inclusive, and thoughtful, always ensuring others feel valued and heard. She works well with peers, leads by example, and brings a positive attitude to every setting. Deeply involved in extracurriculars, she serves as Drum Major for the RHS Marching Band and has stepped outside her comfort zone in the school musical. Ava is goal-oriented, dependable, and a truly uplifting presence.