Congrats to Julia Parenteau of Clinton High, the T&G Student of the Week

Julia Parenteau, a junior at Clinton High School, has earned the title of Telegram & Gazette Student of the Week.

The president of her class as well as the Student Council, Julia topped a field of nine nominees in earning the honor. She captured 40% of the 868 total votes.

Julia was nominated by Principal Scott Czermak, who called her an "all-around great leader" who excels in and out of the classroom. She helps run the Gaels Giving Tree.

"She does not expect recognition, but I believe her dedication and community service warrant recognition," the principal wrote. "She truly wants to just help her community, an intrinsic desire that cannot be taught."

The T&G asked high school principals, teachers and guidance counselors to nominate students they say have shown outstanding academic and school achievement and community service.

Besides Julia, other students considered for the Student of the Week were:

Ava Cormier, Fitchburg High School: Ava is a standout senior. Her dedication to her academics and her drive to succeed make her excel academically. Ava's commitment to participating and improving school culture can be found in her contributions as a student council member, honors society member and Best Buddies participant. Ava's passion has always been to work with children and she is committed to continue her passion in early childhood education at Fitchburg State University. Not only is Ava an exemplary role model as a student for FHS, her kindness, maturity and passion for molding the minds of young ones will have a positive impact on future students that will have the good fortune to have Ava as their teacher and role model.

Cristina Cosgrove, West Boylston High School: Cristina, a sophomore, is being nominated based on her perfect school attendance record (no absences, tardies or dismissals) and her outstanding academic achievement so far this year. All of her teachers report that she is a very conscientious and diligent student who is invested in her education. Cristina challenges herself by enrolling in all honors and advanced placement courses. She excels in them.

Nathan Kozlowski, Millbury High School: Day in and day out, Nate is known for bringing not only a smile but also a positive attitude to school. Nate works extremely hard at his academics in order to succeed and is willing to take on any challenge that is presented to him. Without question, his personality and ability to connect with people is infectious. Nate is also known for how much he exudes pride in both his school and his country. He is a multisport athlete. He has officially enlisted in the Marines for his postsecondary plans and often speaks about his eagerness to join and serve.

Erica Ramirez Mercedes, Worcester Technical High School: Erica, a sophomore, is a self-starter. She has taken initiative to organize and design our quarterly hospitality newsletter and is dubbed the resident creative director because she is always first to coordinate and plan a shop event. She is a natural leader, one of the first students to learn and understand a BEO (Banquet Event Order) and execute a conference meeting independently. She inspires and leads underclassmen in Bistro.

Tristan Robinson, Abby Kelley Foster Charter School: Tristan, a sophomore, is highly motivated to achieve academically. Tristan manages multiple responsibilities while consistently showing regard for others' feelings, beliefs, rights and worth. Tristan models for others' high standards for academic excellence and personal character.

Gabriel Rosa, South High Community School: The growth Gabriel has shown from the beginning of his senior year until now is impressive. Gabriel is God-fearing and works hard to be the best person he can be by taking accountability and by correcting himself when needed. He is inquisitive and has a thirst for knowledge. Additionally, Gabriel is a leader and is well-liked among his peers.

Julio Salina, South High Community School: Julio is an ambassador for South High and embodies our core values on a daily basis — of being respectful, responsible, ready to learn and resilient. When Julio is not setting South High records in the weight room, excelling on the football field or flourishing in the classroom, he is regularly helping staff and students making South High the amazing place that it is. He takes pride in the SHS community and has grown into a true leader of the school. Julio does all of this with a smile on his face and lifts up everyone he encounters.

Robert Wykes, South High Community School: Robert is one of the kindest, most respectful and hardworking students I've ever worked with, said Tiffani Evers, instructional assitant. He is always on task and ready to complete every assignment with pride, care and without complaint. Another amazing fact is that Robert has never been absent thus far in his high school career. That says a lot about how important Robert believes his education is. He also works part time at a local supermarket.

Previous winner Congrats to Rhiannon Novick of Burncoat High, winner of T&G Student of the Week

Are you a school principal, teacher or guidance counselor seeking to nominate someone for Student of the Week? Drop us an email at studentoftheweek@telegram.com. More info here.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Julia Parenteau of Clinton High, Telegram & Gazette Student of the Week