Claymont student honored as top Read 180 performer
Shawnee Casey, a student at Claymont High School, left, has been named one of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt’s top-performing Read 180 students.
Students in Jessica Klingler’s and Nicole Sankey’s English/language arts classes at Claymont High School celebrated classmate Shawnee Casey with a catered lunch from Texas Roadhouse of New Philadelphia, sponsored by the Read 180 program.
Casey was recently selected by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt as one of the top-performing Read 180 students in the nation. Winners are chosen based on academic achievement, personal growth and commitment to a growth mindset.
“I felt a little bit surprised that I won, but I was happy that I had accomplished a big goal of mine,” Casey said. “I’ve struggled with pronouncing certain words, and Read 180 helped me by showing me the word, but broken down. I can now read higher-level books, read and help others if they struggle, and read without asking for help.”
Casey’s hard work and success were rewarded with a catered lunch from Texas Roadhouse, which she shared with her family and her English classmates.
“Shawnee’s commitment to learning is truly remarkable,” Klingler said. “She has shown incredible determination in developing her reading and writing abilities. Her positive attitude and hard work have made a big difference in her academic progress. Shawnee inspires other students by demonstrating how continuous effort and a growth mindset can lead to success.”
Sankey also praised Casey’s dedication.
“Shawnee has been consistent all school year in her dedication as a student,” she said. “I am so very happy for her and the impact she shares Read 180 has made. Seeing her carry around a book she is reading and wanting to talk about it is something all teachers hope for. She is an example to all the other students. Watching Shawnee’s confidence grow has been a joy.”
Principal Kelsi Barnhart echoed those sentiments.
“Shawnee’s enthusiasm and engagement have been inspiring to her peers and teachers alike,” Barnhart said. “She embodies the spirit of a true learner, and we are incredibly proud of her accomplishments.”
When asked to offer advice to other students, Casey said, “Take your time and don’t get stressed if you can’t pronounce or spell a certain word. You can do it if you keep practicing.”
Other students nominated for the Read 180 award included Makenzi Henry, Allie Lowdermilk, Mikayla McCullough and Lilly Sproul, all recognized for their hard work and dedication in class.