Kloie sergeant receives youth leadership award

Newark High School junior Kloie Sergeant was one of 27 outstanding high school juniors recognized by State Senator Pam Helming at her 2026 Youth Leadership Recognition ceremony March 20th.

To view the designed article, visit the following link: https://aptg.co/-bQQXp

Held annually, the program highlights one junior from each of the participating high schools across Helming’s 54th Senate District in Wayne, Livingston and Ontario counties who have demonstrated strong leadership and achievement both in school and within their communities.

Area students receiving the are nominated by teachers, counselors and administrators based on their character, works ethic and commitment to making a difference.

Sergeant has been involved in numerous vocal, instrumental, performing arts and other activities at NHS including being Student Body President in Student Council, and Drama Club President: a member of National Honor Society and serves on the Principal's Council.

She is a member of Concert Band, Chamber Choir, Vocal Jazz, Parade Band, Wind Ensemble and recently participated in All-County Band. She has also taken part in NYSSMA Solo Festivals, Fall Dramas, Musicals and One Act Plays. This year, she was the dance captain for the March show β€œLegally Blonde.”

Sergeant is a member of the Take a Look at Teaching Club and on the Varsity Game Day and Competitive Cheer Team. She has worked at the Middle Schools 21st Century Afterschool Program for 3 years.

After high school she plans on attending college and majoring in early childhood education/special education.

β€œI’m really honored to receive this award as leadership is something that is extremely important to me,” Sergeant said. β€œI love being a person people can look up to.”

She was nominated for the award by NHS Principal Kelly A. Zielke and School Counselor Sue Gardner.

β€œThis was an easy choice to select a junior that embodies service, character, academics and represents Newark,” Zielke said. β€œKloie has been wonderful to get to know as a member of the Principal’s Council for several years and is a wonderful representative of our district.”

β€œKloie has always been so respectful and caring here at NHS,” Gardner said. β€œShe goes above and beyond in both the classroom and the many volunteer opportunities she participates in.”

Helming highlighted each of the award winners’ individual achievements at the event and presented each with a New York State Senate Citation.

β€œThese students are leaders in the classroom and in their communities _ balancing academics, service and responsibility while giving back to others,’’ Helming said. β€œTheir success reflects strong character and the support of parents, educators and mentors. These students are a powerful reminder that our future is in good hands, and we must continue investing in the next generation of leaders.”