Marlboro Elementary Vocal Music Teacher Susan Johnston honored fifth grader Kirsten Droney as the Marlboro Elementary School Music Student of the Month for February.

“She is a role model, a caring friend and hard working musician. [In] each and every class she always has a bright and happy hello,” Johnston said. “In General Music she demonstrates her ability to work with others, shares instruments and follows directions.”

Johnston said Kirsten is an active participant in all classroom activities, such as folk dancing, drumming and piano and when she sees a fellow student who needs help, “she gently guides them in the right direction...It is truly a pleasure to have her in General Music Class.”

Johnston said the elementary school chorus, “is made up of 5th grade students who choose to be there and is a non-required curricular activity, and Kirsten made the positive choice to be a part of this ensemble.”

Johnston said Kirsten is a positive example for everyone else, “and when she faces something new that is challenging, she has the ability to dig into the new material and face it head on...I’m truly impressed and proud of the consistent efforts made by Kirsten and I can’t wait to see where she will go because in music she truly is a dedicated Duke.”

Elementary School Instrumental Band Teacher Zachary Povall said, “each day Kirsten is always ontime and ready to learn. Her eagerness and dedication to music has allowed her to grow into an amazing euphonium player. She is also always willing to help another student or the entire band, from lending a hand in the set up and tear down of stands and chairs for rehearsal to assisting those around her with questions or concerns; she never shies away from helping.”

Povall said band instruments are very fragile and care must be taken because they can be easily damaged.

“Kirsten always makes sure to keep an eye on her instrument while also looking out for others as well; that’s being respectful of the instruments of the room,” Povall said.

Povall said Band provides an opportunity for students to learn cooperation, teamwork and understanding, “characteristics that Kirsten demonstrates each and every day.

Congratulations Kirsten, and Ms. Johnston and I are excited to see where you go from here.”

The Student of the Month acknowledgment for Kirsten was given a few weeks early because in the coming weeks she will be involved with the school musical, “Mama Mia.”