SHS student to compete in national award program

SPOTSWOOD- SeanMurray, a senior at Spotswood High School, has been nominated to compete in the national Principal's Leadership Award (PLA) scholarship program, sponsored by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

Spotswood High School Principal Thomas Calder announced the nomination, which places Murray in a national competition. One hundred national PLA winners will be chosen this spring to receive a college scholarship ranging from $1,000 to $12,000.

"Since Sean transferred into Spotswood High School [as a sophomore], he has earned high honors or honor roll status through his career," Calder said. "He is very involved in extracurricular activities and community service. The class of 2008 has elected Sean as the class president in both his junior and senior years. They recognize Sean's positive attributes and characteristics, and his ability to get things accomplished. I have been in education for 28 years and cannot recommend anyone more highly than Sean Murray. He is truly an elite student and person."

High School principals from across the country were able to nominate one student leader. Nominees were selected based on their leadership skills, participation in service organizations and clubs, achievements in the arts and sciences, employment experience, and academic record. They were also required to write an essay.

"Every year the nominees for the Principal's Leadership Award are just phenomenal, and SeanMurray is no different," said Gerald N. Tirozzi, executive director of NASSP. "He is an excellent example of what a true student leader embodies and deserves to be commended for his excellence in the classroom and community."

The PLA scholarship recognizes leadership in co-curricular activities as well as academic performance.

In addition to class president, Murray has been active in various school and community activities, including the National Honor Society,Yearbook Club, Future Business Leaders ofAmerica (FBLA), the Octagon Community Service Club and the Milltown Democratic Organization.He has also assisted the elderly and disadvantaged in the community by helping with lawn care and leaf raking, as well as feeding families at Elijah's Promise Soup Kitchen.

NASSP's seeks to promote the intellectual growth, academic achievement, character development, leadership development and physical well-being of youth through its programs and student leadership services. It administers the National Honor Society, the National Junior Honor Society and the National Associate of Student Councils.

Herff Jones Inc. funds the PLA program.