RMS Teacher and 2 RHS Students Win “Making A Difference Award”

Sixth grade math teacher Maureen Malinchak and RHS students Cooper Roy and Rory Rayer were named Making A Difference Award winners during a May 4 ceremony presented by The Delaware County Right To Education Local Task Force.

Ms. Malinchak was nominted by fellow math teacher Jim Scanella who noted Ms. Malinchak’s gift for working with students who struggle with math. In addition to her work in the classroom, Ms. Malinchak tutors students after school and plays a large role in the annual RMS Mini-THON.

Senior Cooper Roy was nominated by principal PT Kevgas who describes Cooper as a kind and thoughtful young man who goes out of way to make other students and staff feel special. Cooper participates in the Transition program with the ultimate goal of gaining employement at Villanova University.

Senior Rory Rayer is a part of a team of Special Olympics student coaches who coach and teach over 90 athletes from Delaware County Special Olympics on Sunday mornings from February to June.

The Making A Difference Award recognizes outstanding individuals who meet one of the following criteria:

• Students who have persevered and overcome challenges to be successful within an inclusive setting.
• Students who have demonstrated exceptional support, friendship, acceptance, and understanding to ensure the inclusion of classmates of all abilities.
• Adults who have demonstrated extraordinary efforts through their exceptional work to promote acceptance and understanding to ensure the inclusion of all children of all abilities.