The Wakefield Educational Foundation recently celebrated Wakefield Memorial High School (“WMHS”) students and staff who exemplify the core values of the high school plus go above and beyond in their efforts and contributions to the Wakefield Public Schools. Although many of the honorees were unable to be in attendance due to school-related activities, Principal McLeod exuded pride in the accomplishments of those both on stage and off.

Beginning with Senior Rosella Buscaino, who was travelling on the Swiss Exchange trip, Principal McLeod recognized her “as a student director on the Scholarship Foundation board, [who] organized a kids' night out at the civic center. She is an upstander who consistently does what is right.” Senior Emma Ickes, who as captain of the Lacrosse team needed to be in attendance at the game the same evening, was praised for her “leadership as a Morgan’s Message ambassador [which] has had a meaningful impact on our school community.”

On stage, salutatorian Ellie Pritchard received the WEF award for her leadership in a number of areas, including her role as President of the National Honor Society. McLeod spoke of Pritchard’s impactful study groups, remarking, “our conference room was filled on a Friday afternoon with students getting help in pre-calculus. We couldn’t believe it; it was incredible.” Isabella Sousa, senior, was noted for “creating opportunities for students interested in marketing, finance, and management” by launching Wakefield High’s DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) chapter. Junior Maura E. Riley stood out among her peers for her genuine and inspiring “passion for service,” specifically in her work with the Lynn Salvation Army to bring the Angel Tree program to the high school, bringing truckloads of donations to those in need.

McLeod next recognized a group comprised of two teachers, Michelle Steele and Lauren Buckler, and two students, junior Kaelyn Collins and senior Jessie Yarosh. As the only honoree of the four who could attend that evening, Collins represented the full group on stage. McLeod lauded their leadership in the Best Buddies program, noting “this group has expanded participation and fostered a more inclusive and compassionate school community,” and is credited with “bringing the 'Stars of the Spectrum' performance to our high school."

WMHS staff member Raisa Herrera Conefrey, was the final honoree to be recognized by Principal McLeod. “Her creativity and innovation inspires students every day. In her classrooms, students not only learn Spanish but also develop abilities that extend far beyond language.” acclaimed McLeod. She is also credited with leading the development of the Spanish dual enrollment program in partnership with UMass Boston. WEF congratulates all of WMHS’s 2026 honorees on their outstanding achievements and excellence in education.

The Wakefield Educational Foundation’s mission is to support the good work of individuals and groups who continue to make Wakefield a great place to learn and live. To support its grant process, WEF receives generous funding from key local business partners, private donors, and a series of annual fundraisers, including WEF’s Wakefield Public Schools Calendar showcasing student art; the S.T.A.R.S. program recognizing exemplary WPS staff; the Online Auction and the Adult Spelling Bee. WEF has awarded over $770,000 across the Wakefield Public Schools since 1989. Learn more by following WEF on Twitter or Facebook, or go to WEF01880.org.

WMHS Students and Staff Honored at WEF’s Celebration of Learning

POWERED BY SQUARESPACE