On March 16, 2026, the Rocky River Rotary Club hosted its annual Most Outstanding West Shore Student Awards, continuing a tradition that has recognized student excellence for more than 25 years.

​The luncheon ceremony brought together community members to celebrate students who have demonstrated dedication, leadership and commitment to their future careers. Each student recognized has achieved the highest level in their respective program. They stand out among their peers because of their hard work and ability to apply their skills in real-world situations.

​Lisa Boettcher served as the event coordinator. As the work-based learning director for West Shore Career Tech, she is responsible for connecting students with their opportunities outside the classroom. Through internships, students gain practical experience and develop skills that will benefit them after high school.

​“I think it’s important for students and those in our community to understand that Career Tech students are college- and workforce-ready,” Boettcher said. “We have students who excel both academically and in technical skills, and they are all more well-rounded and ready because of it.”

​Her perspective shows a broader goal for Career Tech education: their lives beyond the classroom. These programs aim to develop well-rounded individuals who can adapt to various career paths by combining academics with specialized training.

​The Outstanding Student Award is not just given to students based on a single criterion. Teachers select their students based on a combination of factors, including effort, classroom attitude, leadership and performance in real-world settings. Boettcher noted that these programs allow students to vet their career choices early.

​“Through these programs, students get to know themselves,” Boettcher said. “It’s great either way: students either find they love a program or realize this career path isn’t for them. I think it’s beneficial to find out that they don’t want to pursue that career, especially before spending the time and money on college. It gives kids a real competitive advantage.”

​For many of these recipients, the award demonstrates two years of hard work. These students show a unique and strong commitment to their craft. Isabella Lester (Medical Professions), Adrien Tullio (Construction Trades) and Rian Fetting (Welding) are three students recognized in the Career Technical Most Outstanding Student Awards.

​“It takes up so much of our day, and we put so much effort into it that it’s nice to know the work is being recognized. Makes us feel like it means something more,” Tullio said. Fetting agreed.

​This not only recognizes students individually, but also shows the strong community created by West Shore Career Tech. Through their programs, students work closely with one another. The program encourages students to collaborate, grow as people and build teamwork skills.

Lester added that the peer and faculty recognition was particularly meaningful. “I have never really been recognized for anything like this, so it means a lot to be congratulated at this event. Just knowing that my efforts are recognized by my teachers and classmates means a lot.”

​Dr. Yakoob Badat, director of West Shore Career-Technical Programs, emphasized the importance of recognizing students in these programs.

​“Most importantly, these students are diverse with their ability to work in groups and to use critical thinking skills in real-world situations,” Badat said. “These programs create a great group of students who we can’t wait to send off into their futures.

​This award ceremony can serve as a reminder of the impact that career-technical education can have on students and their futures. By offering real-world opportunities and targeted education, West Shore Career Tech equips students with the tools they need to succeed.

​As the event concluded, the students left with more than just an award. The recognition showed their growth, achievements and the effort they have put into becoming the best they can be. For these students, the recognition marks a great milestone — honoring their past accomplishments and the bright futures that lie ahead of them.