BALLSTON SPA — Ballston Spa fifth grade students were recognized at annual 5th Grade Moving-Up ceremonies at their elementary schools before the summer break. During the ceremonies, students at each school were presented with the Maurice “Christopher” Morley Literacy Award.
The 2023 award recipients include Chase Bruder from Milton Terrace Elementary, Elizabeth (Liz) Evanchuk and Logan Wood from Gordon Creek Elementary, Draven Campbell from Wood Road Elementary, and Michael Ahern from Malta Avenue Elementary.
This award was created in Mr. Morley’s name, and is awarded to students from each elementary school who are moving up to the Middle School and have demonstrated exceptional determination and perseverance on the road to literacy, a press release states. The award includes a recognition certificate along with a gift certificate to a local bookstore.
Mr. Morley, who was born in April of 1922, struggled his entire life due to dyslexia. To his credit, Mr. Morley proudly donned a cap and gown to receive his Ballston Spa High School diploma some 60 years after his peers. The award is supported by the Rotary Club of Ballston Spa and is presented annually by each elementary school principal.
