At the Sept. 13 Plumas County Office of Education and Plumas Unified School District joint board meeting, Chester Junior-Senior High School senior Gianna Tantardino received the Principal’s Recognition Award from Principal David Andreasen, reports PCOE marketing technician Cary Dingel.
In his remarks, Andreasen cited Tantardino’s many accolades and accomplishments as a student, athlete, and school community leader. Her academic awards include inclusion in the National Rural and Small-Town Recognition Program, as well as receipt of the prestigious Gold Lamp Award, the Scholar Athlete Award, and an Outstanding Academic Achievement award.
She will serve as the student body president for the upcoming 2023-24 school year. She has been team captain for basketball, volleyball, and softball, and was awarded all-league honors in both volleyball and basketball, proving herself to be an exceptional athlete.
Tantardino has also found time to make a difference in her community and beyond, said Dingel. Her involvement in 4-H resulted in her pig being named grand champion market swine at the 2023 Plumas-Sierra County Fair, showcasing her dedication to agricultural pursuits and the community. She volunteered with the Girls Leadership Academy for Service and Sports, working with youth in Costa Rica, inspiring and empowering the next generation, said Dingel.
In her free time, Dingel reports that Tantardino enjoys wake surfing, snow skiing, and beekeeping — a testament to her adventurous nature and love for the outdoors.
Chester High staff members describe Tantardino as dedicated, confident, enthusiastic, and respectful. “She embodies the spirit of a well-rounded, accomplished student who sets a shining example for all,” said Dingel. Principal Andreasen wrapped up the award presentation by saying, “Gianna, we are immensely proud of your achievements, and we look forward to witnessing the incredible things you will undoubtedly accomplish in the future.”
“PCOE and PUSD have exceptional pupils who do well academically and accomplish great things in and out of school,” said Dingel. The Principal’s Recognition Award recognizes outstanding pupils who display the characteristics promoted in the governing board’s adopted vision and mission statements. Pupils are chosen by their schools for demonstrating personal achievement, and the skills necessary to be self-directed, productive, and responsible citizens.
Each school site has this opportunity two times per year — in the fall and spring — when the board is in their community. An elementary student and a junior-senior high school student are selected. Staff nominations go to the principal, who makes the final decision. The student selections are then provided to the superintendent’s office. The award recipient is honored, along with his or her family, at a board meeting in the community. The recipient receives a certificate including the principal and local board member’s signatures.
Information provided by Plumas County Office of Education
