Whiz Kid: Brendan Wray

Name:  Brendan Wray

Age:   10 years old

School:  Island Avenue School

Accomplishments:   “It felt like I was famous,” said Brendan Wray reflecting on being named Madison Rotary Club Student of the Year Award for Island Avenue School.  “Everyone kept on congratulating me!”

Nominated by Island Avenue School and chosen based on a personal essay, Brendan was recognized at a special Rotary luncheon.  Brendan’s essay focused on his good sportsmanship and ability to focus on the task at hand.

All students who receive the Student of the Year Award meet the Rotary's 4-Way Test.  This test, which promotes high ethical standards, asks "Of the things we think, say or do: Is it the TRUTH? Is it FAIR to all concerned? Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?  Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?"

Brendan’s parents, Kim and Joe Wray, his grandparents from Old Lyme and his little sister attended the special recognition luncheon in his honor.  He said his parents were very proud of him. “They thought it was really cool that I got picked out of the whole school for student of the year,” remembered Brendan. 

Key to Awesomeness:  Brendan’s essay was titled “How To Be A Good Citizen.”  In it he explained how he is helpful to his lacrosse coaches.  “I wrote about how I helped my coaches bring the lacrosse goals into the game when we are about to play,” said Brendan.

He also wrote about “not fooling around when you have to be serious.”  He explained that this is important in many different aspects of life, including sports, school and family.  “If you’re not paying attention you won’t know what to do when the time comes,” Brendan explained.

“In class and at play Brendan’s kind and modest nature adds warmth and fun to activities,” said Island Avenue School Principal Kathy Nutley.  “Brendan notices those who are alone and includes them, he organizes games without having to be the person who goes first, he is the star on the basketball court who remembers not to hog the ball,” added Nutley.  “He respects both classmates and adults, and we all think the world of him.”

Brendan’s helpfulness and goodwill does not end once he gets home.  As the middle child in a family of four boys and one girl he said he tries to be as helpful as possible.  “At home I help my sister when my mother is not at home.”

Brendan says the honor was extremely special to receive.

“I felt very accomplished because I’ve never gotten an award that big before and something that was that meaningful.”