The Herald-Courier

Ten Broeck Academy gives awards for character trait ‘discipline’



Photos provided
Students from Ten Broeck Academy were given recognition for possessing the character trait “discipline” at an assembly on Friday, March 10. They are pictured with special guest Kevin (center). From left to right: sixth grader Cole Daigler, seventh grader Emerson Botchelder, eighth grader Johnson Li, freshman Lainey Dunlap, sophomore Ethan Allen, and junior Tyyetta Herman. 

The character trait for the month of February at Ten Broeck Academy was “Discipline.” Seven students were given certificates to recognize them as young people who practice discipline.  But before awards were handed out, the student body witnessed an interview with a man named Kevin Dazuko, who has had many opportunities to choose to give up and be angry and bitter. But instead, Kevin has practiced self-discipline and now runs his own company from his home. Kevin is wheelchair-bound since he suffered from a muscular disease starting at age 8, but he is an inspiration to us all. 

Photos provided
Kevin Dazuko is interviewed by students from TBA about how he practices self-discipline in his life.

Two students had a chance to ask Kevin questions about his life, and how he achieves the motivation to accomplish the things he has. Kevin told the girls and their audience that being disciplined pays off because there is a very rewarding feeling that comes from accomplishing what you set out to do. 

“I work from my home,” he explained. “I could spend half the day in bed, but I choose to get up each day and do the work I have to do. I want the people who work for me to see someone who sets an example. I expect my employees to get things done, so I should also be working hard and accomplishing the tasks I must do.” 

Kevin also stated that working hard brings a sense of satisfaction. 

When he was asked how he works through the times when things are not how he wants them to be, he answered: “I’ve had to work beyond prejudice and criticism, but every time I push past those things there is a great sense of accomplishment. And when people try to put me down because I’m in a wheelchair, I realize I have to be assertive, push past the remarks and get things done in spite of it all.”

Cole Daigler was the sixth-grade student recognized for discipline. 

“Cole is very disciplined with his schoolwork, and he plays hockey. He is always looking for someone else to help.”

Seventh grader Emerson Batchelder was honored for her being “respectful and does not feel different towards others when their beliefs are different from hers. Emerson is her best at all she does.”  

Eighth-grader Johnson Li “shows well-rounded discipline along with listening to teachers. He provides contributions to class conversations.” 

Freshman Lainey Dunlap “works hard to study in science even though it is hard for her; she goes over and above to prepare for exams.”

Sophomore Ethan Allen “stands up and does things he does not want to do because he knows it’s right. He is always willing to help others.”

Junior Tyyetta Herman is “motivated and disciplined in doing her school work. She works hard and pushes herself in athletics as well.”

Senior Megan Jackson’s “focus has always been academics and sports and continues to excel onto the college level.”

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