Student Stairclimber Award / October 2025 Stairclimbers

Erie's Public Schools Student Stairclimber Awards

Erie's Public Schools strives to always celebrate the success of our students. As part of that initiative, the Stairclimber Award is presented monthly at regular School Board meetings (from October through May) to one student from each building, recognizing their tenacity, grit and perseverance toward making improvements in their ABC's -- Attendance, Behavior and Classroom Performance.

The EPS Stairclimber Award, which stems from PA School Climate Data feedback and Strategic Plan Survey results, supports our district-wide movement of School-Wide Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (SWPBIS).

Meet our October 2025 Stairclimbers!

Mustafa Alibrahim, McKinley Elementary School, kindergarten

"Mustafa has been an amazing student. He is a leader and helper in class. He is always doing things the first time when directions are given, showing all the students how to do things by modeling and then helping those who need it. In EL class, he is attentive and does his best to learn all his English words. He is a star student through and through! We are so proud of Mustafa! We can't wait to see how much he learns this year!"

Lamario Cooley, Wilson Middle School, 8th grade

"The Stair Climber award is given to students that exhibit the districts ABC's; Attendance, Behavior and Classroom Performance and I am excited to say, Lamario Cooley embodies each one of these attributes. Attendance is very important to Lamario, he is not only in school each day, but also on time for each and every class as well as prepared. Once in the classroom he gets his materials and is ready to begin.
Lamario sets the example for other students by following expectations. As for behavior, he sets the bar high for his fellow peers. Lamario is courteous and smiles greeting students while acknowledging them in the halls, cafe and classrooms. He is respectful to teachers, staff and admin. Lamario often offers to help pass out papers, open a locker for someone in need or pick up something someone may have dropped. His classroom performance is beyond reproach. Lamario is a model student from passing out textbooks, collecting papers, sharpening pencils to raising his hand when engaging in classroom discussions, while giving space to other students during engagement. His high standards earn him grades that reflect his hard work.
Lamario is honorable and kind and ads nothing but positivity to the Wilson School Community and would be a wonderful addition to the Stair Climber Award recipient list."

Ariana Cruz-Burgos, Harding Elementary School, 2nd grade

"Ariana has improved her behavior so much. She is excited to learn and participate with the class. She has become an awesome helper to everyone around her. She shows kindness and thoughtfulness all day long. Ariana works very hard in class and has learned to accept help without getting upset. She is really deserving of this award this month!"

Jeremih Davis, JoAnna Connell Elementary School , 5th grade

"Jeremih shows up ready to learn. He's made a significant improvement in his attendance, and he's engaged in learning all day. He's going to have a great year and we're all proud of him!"

Alexa Drayer, Perry Elementary School, 5th grade

"The Perry teachers and staff are nominating Alexa Drayer for 'Stick-to-it-tive' Stairclimber for October. Alexa has come a long way as far as social skills with peers and adults.Alexa was brave enough to sing a song infront of Perry families at our Karaoke Bingo Night. She has been responsible with completing tasks and working hard. She is an amazing Perry student who is always safe, respectful, and responsible.We are very proud of Alexa's accomplishments and look forward to seeing her continue to shine!"

Malisha Ghalley, East Middle School, 7th grade

"Malisha has demonstrated meaningful growth this school year. Her classroom behavior has improved steadily, allowing them to stay more focused and engaged in lessons. Attendance has become much more consistent, which has helped support her academic progress. As a result, Malisha's grades have risen, showing a clear commitment to learning and personal improvement. East Middle School is very proud to nominate Malisha Ghalley as our first Stairclimber for the year!"

Vincent Hurta, Strong Vincent Middle School, 8th grade

"Middle school can be a tough time for kids, but Vincent makes it look easy! He's an all-around star in our books. Earlier this month, he stood up for a friend in a manner impressing his teachers and principal. His actions, when no adult was watching, showed his true character. Vince puts his all into everything he does - on the ice or in the classroom. Great things are in his future and we are so lucky he's been a part of the Colonel family."

Tomaj Logan, Edison Elementary School, 2nd grade

"Tomaj has displayed a significant shift in how he engages with academics and his peers during the start of the school year. Tomaj has followed the school wide expectations of being kind to himself, others, and the school and has used his PBIS points to read to a younger grade. Tomaj has practiced and used the self-regulation skills he learned the previous year, which has allowed Tomaj to remain in the classroom with success as he tested above average in the DIBELS Tomaj is funny, kind, and has been working hard during these first few weeks of second grade."

Xavier Munoz, Diehl Elementary School, 5th grade

"Xavier has demonstrated tremendous growth this year. He is taking ownership of his actions and making thoughtful choices that show his commitment to improving. Xavier is setting personal goals, putting forth greater effort in class, and showing more focus on his learning as he prepares for middle school. His determination to try harder, stay on task, and encourage a positive classroom environment makes him a true example of climbing the stairs toward success."

Cooper Osiecki, Patrick J. DiPaolo Student Success Center at Emerson Gridley/Erie's Public Schools Cyber Choice Academy, 10th grade

"This month’s Stair Climber Award goes to Cooper Osiecki. Cooper is a 10th grader in Erie’s Cyber Choice Academy. Cooper attends the lab daily. He follows the school rules with a positive attitude. Coop always shows up with a smile on his face ready to learn. He participates fully and tries his best no matter the topic or difficulty level. He always has a story to share. Cooper is truly a pleasure to have in class. He puts forth his best effort."

Ziyonna Overton, Erie High School, 11th grade

"Ziyonna has shown tremendous growth in all areas of her education this school year. Her attendance, behavior, and academic performance have all improved. She continues to demonstrate what it means to be Respectful, Responsible, and Resilient. We are very proud of Ziyonna and the example she sets for others. She has truly represented what it means to be a Royal this school year."

Jax Pfadt, Lincoln Elementary School, kindergarten

"Jax has shown amazing improvement in behavior now that he is in kindergarten! We are very proud of the choices he is making and how he is using great strategies to handle situations. Great job, Jax!"

Malcolm Rockett, Pfeiffer-Burleigh Elementary School, 2nd grade

"Malcolm has recently demonstrated wonderful growth and a strong sense of responsibility. His effort and commitment to arrive on time is truly impressive and sets a great example for others. We have all noticed and appreciate this positive change, and it shows that he is committed to his studies and respectful of our class's learning time. Keep up the fantastic work!"

Heayveon Santiago, Jefferson Elementary School, 5th grade

"Jefferson is pleased to nominate Heayveon Santiago for the Stairclimber Award in recognition of his exceptional growth and unwavering commitment to improvement. Sine the beginning of the this year, Heayveon's attendance has improved since he was nominated as a HERD leader within our school community, eagerly taking on additional responsibilities and setting a positive example for peers. Heayveon's respectful demeanor toward both staff and students, combined with his consistent hard work and best effort in the classroom, showcases the transformation and character development that makes him truly deserving of this recognition."

Se'Maj Thomas, Eagle's Nest Program of Academic Distinction, 6th grade

"Se'Maj has made a tremendous impact on us at Eagle's Nest, he transfered in from another school, and has truly embraced our school culture and climate transitioning into an exemplar scholar for all. He is constantly going out of his way to be helpful, supportive, and kind to other scholars and staff. Congratulations Se'Maj this award is much deserved. We our very proud of you!"

Sophia Wagatsuma, Northwest Pennsylvania Collegiate Academy, 11th grade

"Over the course of the last three years, Sophia has shown amazing growth in terms of leadership and her connection to the school community. She demonstrates leadership in ROTC, continues to maintain excellent grades, and has recently enrolled in two college courses, to push herself academically. It is truly remarkable to see her social skills blossom and have a positive influence on our staff and students."

Not pictured:

Jhi'Von Easter, Grover Cleveland Elementary School, 4th grade

"Jhi'Von Easter is a hardworking, kind student. He has matured and worked hard to move from full-time LSS to supplemental LSS with Learning Supports for reading. He goes everyday and works hard in the general ed classroom. He is responsible with his work and helps others!"

ERIE'S PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Student Stairclimber Award

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