This fall, three members of the Highland Central School District (HCSD) community will be honored by the Mid-Hudson School Study Council (MHSSC) for possessing the qualities and skills necessary for making a difference in students’ lives.

Highland Elementary School (HES) Principal Joel Freer, Highland Rotary Club Co-Founder Steve Laubach, and Highland High School (HHS) Senior Security Guard Wade Sargent will each receive a 2019 Award for Excellence during a MHSSC dinner on October 17. The annual event recognizes outstanding abilities in administration, community service, pupil personnel services, school board service, and support staff services.

Mr. Freer has served as the HES principal for the past 11 years. He has shown meticulous attention to detail, a drive to build a smooth-running, welcoming school, and an unwavering commitment to children. He keeps his students, staff, and building at the forefront of all conversations.

“Mr. Freer is a valued member of the Highland administrative team, as he is a solid source of information on the District and pedagogy,” said HCSD Assistant Superintendent Sarah Dudley-Lemek. “He is quick to offer support to the other buildings and can be counted on to be timely and thorough in all his work,” she added.

Mr. Laubach is one of the founding members of the Highland Rotary Club and has been an active member for more than 30 years. One of his many responsibilities include organizing the annual Hudson Valley Ribfest. His hard work with this fundraiser has resulted in tens of thousands of dollars worth of scholarships being raised for HCSD graduates. He is also responsible for the Highland Middle School Book Project, the HES Rotary Junior Achievement Program, and more.

“I have come to know Mr. Laubach as an incredibly caring person who is dedicated to the betterment of the Highland community, the District, and the world,” shared HCSD Superintendent Thomas Bongiovi.

Mr. Sargent spent his career in law enforcement as an officer for the Town of Lloyd Police Department. Upon his retirement from the force, he accepted the position at HHS, and his positive impact and influence was felt immediately. His security experience and rapport with the students, staff, and community is unsurpassed.

Superintendent Bongiovi is honored to have Mr. Sargent on his staff. “I can honestly say that in my 32 years in education, I have never seen a more qualified, caring, and impactful support staff member than Wade Sargent,” he said.