For the Reporter

The Auburn School District Board of Directors recognizes Jenny Payseno, a para-educator at Auburn High School, for her outstanding service at 7 tonight in the James P. Fugate Administration building.

Payseno works with special needs students in the Transition Assistance Program, assisting the students with life and work skills. The Auburn Riverside High School graduate has been working in the school district for six years.

“My job is to help prepare these kids to be successful in life after high school,” Payseno said.

Elsewhere

The school board presents the Gold Star Volunteer Award tonight to Maria Abrejera-Edwards in recognition of her support to the school district.

Nominated by three separate people for this award, a partial list of her volunteer activities include Ilalko Elementary PTA member as treasurer and co-president; Auburn Council of PTA board member; executive board for Ilalko’s SIP committee; four years of chairing the Ilalko school supply drive; coaching volleyball, basketball and tug-of-war at Ilalko; Walk-a-Thon/Fit-thon fundraiser; and the inaugural End Zone Academy fundraiser. She also volunteers in the classroom working on reading and math with students.

Abrejera-Edwards enjoys volunteering because she wants to inspire all kids, not just her own. “I love to inspire people to make a difference in their development,” she said. “It enlightens me every day.”

Ilalko principal Tim Carstens said, “Maria balances her life as mom and superhero to perfection. She is very deserving of this recognition.” …

The school board recognizes Kira Kopcho, an eighth-grader at Mt. Baker Middle School, for being an outstanding student tonight.

She is one of the school newspaper editors, is the Recycling Club chair in Builder’s Club, is the Art Club president, and is a skilled violinist and quiet leader in the orchestra program. She also maintains high grades in all of her classes, including honors courses.

She is a prolific reader and writer. In addition to her extra-curricular and academic load, she also participates in roller derby outside of school.

“Kira is fabulous, wonderful, all-around great kid,” Mt. Baker teacher Erin Carnahan said. …

Auburn Riverside will be well-represented at the All-State Band event in February in Spokane. Thousands of students audition and only 150-200 are chosen. The following students were selected for the All-State Band: Diego Cabanas, Kasey Green, Alivia Hammond, Sunny Lee, Hailey Wagner, Mya Wagner.

The Northwest Honors Band will perform in January at Pacific Lutheran University. These students were nominated by their teacher based on dedication, musical ability and work ethic. Only 200 students are accepted. These students were selected for the Northwest Honors Band: Jonna Baker, Cabanas, Hammond, Chandler Price, Erica Russaw and Dru Wickenkamp.