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Wednesday, April 16, 2003

It's certainly a pleasure choosing the top 10 all-around student citizens of the south suburbs.

But it's not easy.

They are skilled in the classroom, in music and other artistic endeavors, in sports and in helping to make the community a better place. Of the many nominees, 10 were chosen from the PG Washington circulation area by Post-Gazette reporters and editors. Each student also nominated and wrote an essay about a teacher who has been an inspiration.

Here are the 2003 All-Star Achievers and their teachers:

Nicholas Carosella, Upper St. Clair

Yearbook editor, National Honor Society member. Organized neighborhood carnival to raise money for Children's Hospital. Volunteers with mentally and physically challenged students.

Teacher: Debbie Obrosky

"Mrs. Obrosky, my fifth-grade teacher, was pivotal in encouraging me to be more self-confident. It was her direction that year, and the support she has continued to show throughout the years, that has allowed me to benefit from my many great subsequent teachers."

Brian Corlett, Lakeview Christian Academy

National Merit Scholar finalist. Co-captain of forensics team, lead guitarist in a contemporary Christian musical group. Actor in school plays. Volunteers with children and the elderly. Will major in computer engineering at Pitt.

Teacher: Christopher Otis

"Pastor Christopher Otis, as a coach of my school's forensics team, has taught public speaking to me and deepened my understanding of current events. He has helped guide me in my decisions for the future and consistently challenged me to strive for excellence."

Emily Fear, South Park

Writes for school paper, helped create student literacy magazine. Named Outstanding Playwright by International Thespian Society. Had a play chosen for City Theatre's third annual Young Playwrights Festival. Plans on being a writer.

Teacher: Michael Golia

"I was lucky to have been a student of Michael Golia. He never shies away from controversial topics or discourages creative growth in his students. He has shown an active interest in my writings and is partly responsible for many of my accomplishments."

Kimberly Kweder, Baldwin

President of National Honor Society. Member of tennis team and drama club, section leader for high school chorus. Volunteers for Special Olympics. Co-organized project to collect coats for a women's center. Will major in broadcasting.

Teacher: Kathleen E. Pisowicz

"A Chinese proverb states, 'Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach a man to fish and he will eat for the rest of his life.' I enjoyed having an energetic teacher who connected with students' lives and encouraged us to voice our opinions during class discussions."

Megan Kustra, McKeesport Area

Member of National Honor Society, speech and ski clubs. Writes for school paper, cheerleader. Acted in school plays, volunteer cheerleading coach. Plans on majoring in communications.

Teacher: Janet Robb

"Janet Robb has been my speech and composition teacher and forensics coach since freshman year. She has spent countless hours helping me reach my potential in speaking and writing. She has been a positive influence with her humor and vigor for learning."

Katelyn Lesk, South Park

Vice president of National Honor Society. Chaired gift program for needy children. Volunteers for Special Olympics, Race for the Cure, March of Dimes. Organized talent show. Lettered in track and cross country. Will major in engineering.

Teacher: Harold Ohm

"Mr. Harold Ohm puts his heart into everything he does. Watching this caring and dedicated person makes me want to put 100 percent into my own activities. Not only is he a wonderful teacher in the classroom but also in life."

Kurt Luther, Upper St. Clair

National Merit Commended Scholar who is spending his senior year as a freshman at Purdue University. Member of cross-country team, Civil Air Patrol. Has directed several short films. Plans on being a visual effects artist.

Teacher: Paul Schlachter

"Mr. Schlachter has influenced me through his unremitting character. He epitomizes not only the qualities of intelligence and dedication, but also the distinction of being a polite, well-spoken and engaging individual. In him, I see a man who I aspire to be like one day."

Molly Majetic, Seton-La Salle

National Honor Society president, yearbook editor. Captain of softball team, member of jazz and concert bands. Won College of Holy Cross Book Award. Volunteers for food pantry and the elderly. Plans on becoming a photographer.

Teacher: Daniel Vereb

"Mr. Vereb is not just an amazing teacher; he is also a caring friend. I have worked with him on yearbook, attended his class, and he has encouraged me to explore and develop my creative talents and has challenged my intellect. His love of life makes learning a gift."

Matthew Sedlock, Bethel Park

Member of National Honor Society, peer tutor. Member of cross-country, wrestling teams. Returned to fall sports after fracturing a vertebra in his neck. Volunteers with a children's summer reading program. Will major in engineering.

Mary Jo Falsetti

"Mrs. Falsetti is the most caring teacher I have ever known. When a neck injury prevented me from attending school, she came to my house to tutor me. She helped me not only to continue my studies but showed me how to help people when they are in need."

Robert Vargo, West Mifflin Area

Maintained straight A's despite a severe concussion last year that caused him extreme memory problems. Captain of soccer team, member of basketball team. Teen docent at Carnegie Museum. Intends on majoring in computer engineering.

Teacher: George Price

"The most influential teacher in my life has been Mr. Price. In his physics class, I not only learned the many physical laws, but also about my future career in engineering. He has taught me how to study problems to find a solution, and not just give up with no solution."