Darien's Mariam Ghaloo & Middlesex student collects state-wide award

The color green means a little something more to Middlesex Middle School (MMS) student Mariam Ghaloo these days.

In addition to being a member of the Green Team at MMS, Ghaloo recently received a state-wide award as part of her green way of thinking. The award was connected to Ghaloo's submission to Energize Connecticut. Energize Connecticut is an initiative dedicated to empowering Connecticut to make smart energy choices. The initiative involves the Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund, the Connecticut Green Bank, the State, and local electric and gas utilities, according to the EnergizeCT website. 

As part of a state-wide competition, students in MMS teacher Kelly DePiano's class (pictured above with Ghaloo) submitted a Public Service Announcement (PSA) on the importance of either LED lighting or insulation. Ghaloo's PSA on the importance of insulation was selected as a finalist and awarded a second place finish.

"I get excited to see when our students reach beyond themselves to look for ways they can have a greater impact on the community. I am thrilled for Mariam," said MMS Principal Debi Boccanfuso.

Darien First Selectman Jayme Stevenson attended the awarding ceremony at the Capitol building in Hartford along with Ghaloo's family. She received a certificate and Darien pin from Stevenson. She also received a gift card and plaque as her award.