Steubenville City Schools honors community trailblazers
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STEUBENVILLE -- Steubenville City Schools honored three community members, two of them Steubenville High School alumni, for their contributions to the area during the school district's 32nd-annual Pathfinders Assembly.
A continuation of the school district's commemoration of Black History Month, Friday's assembly recognized Cynthia Lytle and Big Red alumni Rik Jones and James Montgomery. Recognition was awarded based on accomplishments in the fields of government, the arts, education, business or humanitarianism.
Also recognized were the top finishers in two essay contests within the school district.
Started in 1992, the assembly is meant to celebrate Big Red graduates and other district contributors who are trailblazers, those who have forged a path forward while giving back to their community, said Aaron Newman, assistant principal of Steubenville High School.
Newman noted that the assembly, which has evolved significantly over the years and honored hundreds of community members, is led and produced by students. Current and former Big Red students shared talents through a variety of performances, while others acted as masters of ceremonies.
"I very much believe that among this group of students are future Pathfinders," Newman said.
A welcome address and the Pledge of Allegiance were led by Big Red student Isaac Hill, who introduced fellow student Sabria Jones to sing "Lift Every Voice and Sing," which has been recognized as the Black National Anthem.
Gia Bowman introduced guests to the assembly, including members of the city school board and local principals. Additionally, Te'Jah Montgomery recognized the hundreds of past Pathfinders who "have left a legacy of achievement and excellence in Steubenville and beyond," and she thanked the assembly's program assistants, the SCS Black History Committee and the Big Red student body.
Nyah Dunburg-Ingram recognized the winners of a multi-grade essay contest across the school district. Winners included third-grader Miracle McGee, East Garfield Elementary; fourth-grader Lily Kotsanis, Wells Academy; fourth-grader Ashtyn Mitchell, McKinley STEM Academy; third-grader Dionesi Wallace-Jones of Pugliese West Elementary School; eighth-graders Phynyx Fleming and Emily Martin of Harding Middle School; and 10th-grader Jaeda King of Steubenville High school.
Also recognized were the winners of a Martin Luther King Jr. reflection essay contest, organized b the SCS MLK Committee and sponsored by the Steubenville Martin Luther King Jr. Association. Top finishers included Ta'Nora Terry and Ezra Leasure, first and second place, respectively, in the kindergartener category; Ki'Zyiah Bennett and Savannah McCallister, first and second place in the first- and second-grade category; Ashtyn Mitchell and Elijah Hilty, first and second place in the third- and fourth-grade category; Phynyx Fleming and Emily Martin, first and second place from Harding; and Anthony Pearce and Jusante Wright, first and second place from SHS.
Pearce shared his first-place essay, in which he described King's influence on his own decision making and work for justice.
"Out of many role models I could look to in making ethical decisions," Pearce said, "Dr. King is definitely up there in helping me learn how I can better myself."
Following a vocal performance of the Keyshia Cole song "Love" by student A'ryiah Jones, Tiarra Williams introduced Cynthia Lytle, the first Pathfinder. Although not a Big Red graduate, Lytle noted she has children enrolled in Steubenville schools and has many alumni family members.
Lytle herself received an education award for her 10 years of service as the director of strategic partnerships and community engagement for Urban Mission Ministries, connecting individuals and families with services for a better quality of life. Responsible for multiple local outreach events, Lytle encouraged attendees -- particularly local officials -- to let youth sit at "the table of decision making in our community."
After an original hip-hop performance by 2016 SHS alumnus Elisha "Platinum" Fletcher, Josh Schoonover recognized 1985 SHS graduate Rik Jones, who was given an award for humanitarianism. Having joined the Marine Corps after graduation, Jones moved from artillery to broadcasting, eventually settling the information technology field after exiting the Marines.
Jones is a captain and squadron commander for the nonprofit Civil Air Patrol, an Air Force auxiliary that instructs youths ages 12 to 18 in leadership, STEM and emergency services.
Jones said of his various service roles: "It's important for me to give back to every kid who walks in the door."
Next were performances by Jasmine Wooden, who presented a mime routine set to "I Need You" by Donnie McClurkin, and Ramon Ramos, who danced to "Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson.
Savier Faulks then recognized James Montgomery, who was recognized for humanitarianism. A 2008 SHS graduate, Montgomery played on the Big Red football team, being part of the 2005-2006 team that won back-to-back state championships and went undefeated to earn what's known as "The Perfect Season."
Montgomery began coaching in 2005 for the Steubenville Tigers tackle football and cheerleading program. When that program ended, Montgomery rallied former Tigers staff to found the Steubenville Broncos program, for which he is the president.
"When I started coaching, it was just about coaching to me. Now it's about making an impact on players' lives," Montgomery said, adding later: "A good coach can coach a kid, but a great coach can change a kid's life."
The final talent performance was a dance routine set to "Stand Up" by Cynthia Erivo. Dancing were Ellie Clark, Maleea Crownover and Alivia Vostatek.
Offering concluding comments, Javin Harper commended the student performers and community members, adding, "We are proud of the leaders of our community who are paving a way for a brighter future for all young people."