Editor’s note: This story was updated on May 26 to include a photo of Brooke Stride and a comment from her teacher.

Lake Bluff Elementary School Principal Katie Williams and Brooke Stride

Fifth grader Grace Geraghty receives an Excellence in Character Award from LBES Principal Katie Williams

Two students from Lake Bluff Elementary School and one from Lake Bluff Middle School received “Excellence in Character” awards from the Lake County Regional Office of Education and Character Matters in Lake County, a committee of the Lake County After School Coalition.

The Lake Bluff  students are:

• Brooke Stride (4th Grade)
• Grace Geraghty (5th Grade)
• Eleni Athenson (8th Grade)

Fifth grade teacher Jill Weinberger said she nominated Grace for several reasons: “Grace continually strives to achieve her goals and push herself to exceed them. She has been involved in numerous activities at school such as the representative for the 21st century learner, Eco Club, and the LBES Tribune to name just a few. She is an immense help to others when necessary, yet is an independent worker as well. I feel she was chosen since she possess so many of the qualities the Character Matters Award is looking for.”

Brooke’s fourth grade teacher Lindsay Ryan said she nominated her student for a variety of reasons: “She is cooperative, demonstrates high standards of honesty and reliability, and she shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others. She is hard working and she is always happy. She is eager to learn and she is happy to help others. I am so fortunate that I get to work with her for two years, both 4th and 5th grade. She is a dream student and a joy to have in class. She always walks in with a smile and her smile is contagious. I am so proud of Brooke and all that she has accomplished this year. I am looking forward to watching Brooke continue to set a good example for others and at the same time, learn and have fun!”

Eleni Athenson was nominated by teachers at LBMS because of her optimistic and friendly nature. Here’s what they wrote about her on the nomination form:  ”Throughout her years as a student in Lake Bluff, Eleni has made positive contribution to the Lake Bluff School community.  She consistently displays compassion for her peers, teachers, and family.  Eleni is the type of student who is friends with everyone and maintains a positive outlook no matter the situation.  She always strives to bring out the best in others.”

The award program honors students and staff members in Lake County who exhibit outstanding character within their school communities. Over the past six years we have recognized hundreds of individuals who lead by example and are a source of inspiration and hope for the future. Common character traits emerge from the stories shared in the nominations, such as compassion, commitment, kindness, perseverance, integrity, and responsibility.