Ryanna Todd, daughter of James and Jenna Todd, has been selected as the Career and Technical Education Student of the Month at Southwest Tech (SLL BOCES) for May 2026.

Ryanna is a senior at Clifton-Fine Central School and is enrolled in the Metalworking II program at the Southwest Career & Technical Education Center.

Ryanna is an inspiration to both her classmates and teachers. She is an extremely hardworking student who consistently takes on responsibilities and projects without hesitation. She has earned her DOT certification in metalworking and has competed in SkillsUSA competitions during both her junior and senior years, placing second in New York State as a junior.

In addition to her academic achievements, Ryanna is highly involved in both her school and community. At Southwest Tech, she serves as a student ex-officio board member for SLL BOCES, vice president of SkillsUSA, and a member of the National Technical Honor Society. At Clifton-Fine Central School, she serves as class president, student council secretary, Drama Club treasurer, Language Club vice president, Music Club treasurer, and Yearbook vice president. She is also involved in Impetus, Jazz Band, Envirothon, and Newspaper Club, while participating in softball, golf, basketball, and volleyball. In the community, Ryanna serves as captain of the Star Lake Junior Firefighters.

Metalworking Instructor: Jared Prashaw

Lauren Peacock, daughter of Jeanne Besaw and Danforth Peacock, has been selected as the Career and Technical Education Student of the Month at Southwest Tech (SLL BOCES) for April 2026.

Lauren is a senior at Hermon-DeKalb Central School and is enrolled in the Building Trades II program at the Southwest Career and Technical Education Center.

Lauren is a hardworking student, a leader, and a positive role model for her peers. She comes to class prepared each day and consistently strives to do her best while supporting others in the program.

She is an active member of the soccer, basketball, and softball teams at Hermon-DeKalb. Lauren also participates in band, National Honor Society, and student council. In her free time, she enjoys baking, fishing, and spending time with friends. After graduation, she plans to attend SUNY Canton to pursue a degree in engineering.

Building Trades Instructor: Alexander Fuller

Carson LeRoux, son of Majonica Drake and Edward Drake, has been selected as the Career and Technical Education Student of the Month at Southwest Tech (SLL BOCES) for May 2026.

Carson is a senior at Clifton-Fine Central School and is enrolled in the Professions in Education II program at the Southwest Career & Technical Education Center.

Known for his kind and conscientious nature, Carson is also recognized as a gregarious, intelligent, and affable student. He is a strong collaborator and communicator who has developed a passion for pursuing a career in special education.

In addition to his academic achievements, Carson is actively involved in athletics at Clifton-Fine, participating in soccer, basketball, and baseball. He also serves his community as a junior firefighter with the Star Lake Fire Department.

Following graduation, Carson plans to attend SUNY Plattsburgh to study special education.

Professions in Education Instructor: Annie Ruberti

Violet Blair, daughter of Gerald Blair and Kimberly Knight has been selected as the Career and Technical Education Student of the Month at Southwest Tech (SLL BOCES) for March 2026.

Violet is a senior at Gouverneur Central School and a second-year student in the Digital Media Design II Program at Southwest Career & Technical Education Center.

Violet is known for her exceptional talent, strong technical skills, and deep understanding of digital media. She arrives each day prepared, engaged, and eager to learn. She consistently demonstrates a positive attitude, a willingness to take on challenges, and a natural ability to support her classmates. Violet freely offers help to others and contributes to a collaborative, encouraging classroom environment.

A dedicated member of the National Technical Honor Society, Violet exemplifies the qualities of leadership, professionalism, and academic excellence. Outside of school, she enjoys reading and art, interests that complement her creative strengths in the digital media field.

After graduation, Violet plans to begin an apprenticeship in the tattoo industry, with the long-term goal of owning her own business. Her passion, creativity, and drive make her a standout student with a promising future ahead.

Digital Media Design Teacher: Susan Stewart

Niklas Tharaldsen, son of Stephen and Jana Tharaldsen, has been selected as the Career and Technical Education Student of the Month at Southwest Tech (SLL BOCES) for April 2026.

Niklas is a senior at Gouverneur Central School and is enrolled in the Heavy Equipment Operation II program at the Southwest Career & Technical Education Center.

Niklas is an exceptional student and a role model for his classmates. He is a talented and hardworking individual with a positive attitude. He is always eager to learn and willing to help others when needed. His long-term goal is to become a teacher in the heavy equipment field or to work for a local municipality.

Niklas is a member of the National Technical Honor Society at Southwest Tech and is also part of the Liberty Partnership Program at Gouverneur Central School. Outside of school, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and playing golf.

Heavy Equipment Operation Instructor: Monty Phinney

Logan Hill, son of Christine Wood and Steven Hill has been selected as the Career and Technical Education Student of the Month at Southwest Tech (SLL BOCES) for February 2026.

Logan is a senior at Gouverneur Central School and is enrolled in the Electrical Technologies II Program at the Southwest Career & Technical Education Center. He consistently demonstrates a positive attitude and shows respect toward both peers and staff. Logan uses his time effectively, exhibits a strong work ethic, and maintains an eagerness to learn.

Beyond his academic achievements, Logan is actively involved in both his school and community. He is a dedicated member of the Gouverneur soccer and trap teams, where he demonstrates leadership, commitment, and sportsmanship. During the winter months he continues his athletic involvement by participating in indoor soccer. Logan also serves his community as a volunteer firefighter, generously donating his time to help others. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, fishing and snowmobiling.

At Southwest Career and Technical center Logan is a proud member of the National Technical Honor Society. Following graduation, he plans to attend Clinton Community College to pursue Electrical studies, with the goal of becoming an electrician.

Electrical Technologies Teacher: Levi Durham