GREENCASTLE – In a heartwarming ceremony, the Greencastle Exchange Club recognized Ryleigh Harshman, an eighth-grade student at Greencastle-Antrim Middle School, as its December Citizen of the Month. Ryleigh, the daughter of Valerie and Todd Harshman, was nominated by her teachers for this award, which acknowledges students who embody exceptional character and academic excellence.
The selection criteria for the Citizen of the Month award include being dependable and trustworthy, maintaining a positive attitude, demonstrating good judgment and citizenship and achieving personal academic goals.
Ryleigh’s teachers praised her for being a kind and caring student who makes a positive impact in the classroom. She is known for finding the good in others and willingly helping her peers, creating a supportive and calm environment even in stressful situations.
Robbie Cooper, Ryleigh’s English Language Arts and yearbook teacher, highlighted her strong sense of responsibility and high expectations for herself. Her math teacher commended her excellent work ethic and dedication to reaching and exceeding her academic goals.
In addition to her academic achievements, Ryleigh is actively involved in various extracurricular activities. She is a member of the yearbook staff and plays field hockey for her school. Outside of school, she is a Girl Scout and participates in a competitive dance group at Clarissa’s, where her favorite form of dance is tap. In her spare time, Ryleigh enjoys traveling and photography.
The ceremony was attended by several notable figures, including Robbie Cooper, Ryleigh’s ELA teacher; Christine Palmer, assistant principal; and Beth Powers, a member of the Greencastle Exchange Club. Ryleigh was joined by her parents, Valerie and Todd Harshman, and her brother, Graeme.