Story by Cheyenne Haupler

Two Woodland seniors, Avangeline Magi and James Scampolino were chosen by the Superintendent to receive a Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents (CAPSS) award for their outstanding community service, service to others, academic achievement, and leadership within the school community. Each year only two students from Woodland are chosen to receive this award.

This award sets new standards for students, encouraging more participation in helping the community. However, some students and often underclassmen are unsure about where to start when it comes to community service. 

“There’s plenty of opportunities around the school and middle school,” said Scampolino. “Look for things in the school through guidance and advisory.”

Scampolino has rounded up around 50 hours of community service from both his internship, PES field day in the summertime, and basketball camps. 

“The hardest challenge I had to overcome was reaching the goal of 40 hours while being a student athlete,” said Scampolino. “I found ways to incorporate my community service in with being a student athlete in ways such as basketball camps for younger students at PES called Hawks Hoops.”

Avangeline Magi plans to use service in college by joining clubs where she can continue to help her community, such as environmental clubs like student government. 

“I also plan to join a sorority where I can have more opportunities to be with my peers and learn more about service,” Magi added. “I would give the advice of putting yourself out there and not giving up or being discouraged if you are having trouble finding opportunities to branch out.” 

“The hardest challenge I faced was planning our statewide convention last year for CASC, it took a lot of planning and was for around 500 students, but with teamwork and dedication from everyone involved we were able to plan a perfect convention for all students attending,” said Magi. 

Even though hitting 40 hours seems like a lot at first, James and Ava show that it’s definitely possible if you just get involved. Whether you are a student athlete or someone looking to join a club, there are plenty of ways to help out. By putting in the work and leading others like James and Ava did, any student has the chance to be recognized for a big achievement like the CAPSS award.