At the February 9 Board of Education meeting, we recognized our Kids of Character for the district! Each month, one student from each building is recognized for modeling positive character traits such as respect, responsibility, and integrity for their fellow students.

Congratulations to our February 2026 Kids of Character: 

• Xenia Preschool: Ada Purdin 
• Arrowood Elementary: Kayden Ruffin
• Cox Elementary: Mikey Gabriele
• McKinley Elementary: Ezekiel Awuah
• Shawnee Elementary: Draven Smith 
• Tecumseh Elementary: Elijah Clark 
• Tecumseh Elementary (December): Elena Gargin
• Warner Middle School: Riley Evoniuk, Team Eagles
• Warner Middle School: Bailey Brehm, Team Nationals 
• Warner Middle School: Isabella Tope, Team Patriots 
• Xenia High School: Taetym Metcalf 

Read more about this month’s Kids of Character below, and view additional photos from the recognition in the online photo album.

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Xenia Preschool: Ada Purdin 
Ada has such a kind soul. She is a wonderful friend who makes good choices. She makes sure that all of her classmates feel included in the classroom. She always puts others needs before her own. She is a hard worker who takes pride in her accomplishments. She always comes with a smile and positive attitude that brightens the whole room.

Arrowood Elementary: Kayden Ruffin
Arrowood is proud to announce Kayden Ruffin as our Kid of Character for the month of February! Kayden is a second-grade student in Mrs. Harris's class. She writes, "Kayden is such a kind friend to everyone! He is very respectful to teachers and friends. Kayden works hard and does his best for all of his work. He has learned and grown so much already this year! " Thank you, Kayden, and we hope you know that we are so grateful for you.

Cox Elementary: Mikey Gabriele 
Mikey was nominated by his teacher, Mrs. Vogelsong. She writes, "I am honored to nominate Mikey as a Kid of Character. Mikey is a hard worker, polite, and well-mannered. He is always trying his best. He can be counted on to do what he's supposed to be doing even when no one is looking. Every teacher and staff member who comes into contact with Mikey expresses what an awesome person he is. It has been said more than once that we wish we could have an entire classroom full of Mikeys! I'm so glad I have gotten the privilege to be his teacher this year."

McKinley Elementary: Ezekiel Awuah 
Ezekiel has been an excellent role model in first grade! He comes to school ready to learn, shows kindness to his classmates, and always tries his best. Ezekiel follows classroom rules, works hard, and has a positive attitude every day. We are so proud of him and all the great choices he makes. Congratulations, Ezekiel!

Shawnee Elementary: Draven Smith
In the classroom, Draven consistently demonstrates empathy and kindness toward others. He is quick to notice when a classmate is upset or hurt and immediately checks on them to offer support. Draven willingly helps wherever he is needed, whether that means cleaning up a spill or assisting a peer with a challenging task. He regularly shares sincere compliments that positively impact those around him and helps create a welcoming classroom environment. Draven is especially thoughtful toward visitors and new students, often being the first to greet them and help them feel comfortable.

Tecumseh Elementary: Elena Gargin (Dec.)
Elena is new this year and jumped right into a servant leadership position!! She is a Student Ambassador showing responsible, respectful, caring, and courageous characteristics. Elena is not only gentle and kind to her peers, she is polite to adults as well. She remains dedicated and focused in her academics and her grades show it. Elena sets an excellent example for others and Tecumseh is lucky to have her!!

Tecumseh Elementary: Elijah Clark
Tecumseh has chosen Elijah as our kid of character because he goes above and beyond his best!! Elijah makes great choices and sets an awesome example for others. He listens attentively, is respectful to his peers and adults, and responsibly takes care of his belongings. Elijah is caring and helpful in and out of the classroom. Way to go, great job Elijah!!

 

Warner Middle School: Riley Evoniuk, Team Eagles
The 8th grade Eagles team is proud to announce that Riley Evoniuk is our Kid of Character selection for February! Riley is an exceptional student who consistently demonstrates academic excellence and maintains outstanding grades while challenging herself beyond grade-level expectations. Riley is currently taking three high school–level courses as an eighth-grade student. She is involved in WEB (Where Everyone Belongs) and is a member of National Junior Honor Society. Her ability to maintain excellent grades while taking high school classes speaks to her strong work ethic, time-management skills, and genuine motivation.
In addition to her academic achievements, Riley is highly involved in extracurricular activities. She is an active participant in dance and school cheer, where she demonstrates leadership, teamwork, and dedication. Riley is also involved in 4-H, further showcasing her responsibility, community involvement, and willingness to develop life skills beyond the classroom.
Riley is also a positive presence in class. She contributes thoughtfully to discussions and serves as a role model for her peers through her respectful attitude. Her ability to excel academically while remaining well-rounded makes her an outstanding student and a strong representative of Warner Middle School. Congratulations Riley!

Warner Middle School: Bailey Brehm , Team Nationals 
Bailey Brehm is the Team Nationals Kid of Character nominee for the month of February. She demonstrates dedication and teamwork through her involvement in both volleyball and basketball, always showing a positive attitude and strong sportsmanship. Bailey is also an active member of the school choir and enjoys singing at her church, where she shares her talents with others. Whether on the court or on the stage, Bailey consistently shows confidence, commitment, and respect for those around her.

In addition to her many activities, Bailey is someone who truly cares about helping others. She volunteers her time at the local food pantry, showing kindness and compassion to those in need. Bailey is also involved with WEB at Warner Middle School, where she helps support and welcome other students, and she is a proud member of the National Junior Honor Society. Through her leadership, service, and positive character, Bailey Brehm makes a meaningful difference in her school and community and is very deserving of this recognition.

Warner Middle School: Isabella Tope, Team Patriots 
Isabella Tope is Team Patriots’ February Kid of Character. She always has a pleasant disposition with each encounter in the hallway. She was recommended without any hesitation. She is always prepared and works hard with a great attitude, even when she meets a challenge. Bella regularly helps others during class and is always willing to go the extra mile to be successful.

One of her teachers said. . .
In class, Isabella works extremely hard. She is willing to share her ideas and asks questions when she is confused. Bella wants to make sure she understands the material to the highest level. Isabella is always going the extra mile to support both students and staff. If a student needs help with a problem, she is quick to jump in. At the end of class, she always makes sure all chairs are up so that the room is clean for the day.

Isabella is an upstanding citizen of Warner Middle School, and we are happy to recognize her as our February Kid of Character!

Xenia High School: Taetym Metcalf
It is my privilege to nominate Taetym Metcalf as Xenia High School’s February Kid of Character. Taetym is an exceptionally hardworking and motivated student who consistently demonstrates a positive attitude and a genuine commitment to helping both his peers and teachers. He approaches every challenge with determination and respect, making him a positive influence in the classroom and throughout the school community.

As a dedicated student athlete, Taetym exemplifies balance and discipline by excelling both academically and athletically. He is a valued member of the basketball team and maintains strong academic performance in the classroom. His membership in the Renaissance program further reflects his commitment to excellence, responsibility, and character.

Taetym is very deserving of this recognition, and we are incredibly proud of him for all he has accomplished so far this school year.