By Kaya Leitner
HEROES OF STAPLES
Staples is filled with an abundance of talented and inspiring people. From the classroom to the hallway to the cafeteria, these five individuals stand out and illustrate the best of the batch, according to students surveyed at Staples High School.
DREW COYNE: Social Studies teacher adored by students
Social Studies teacher Mr. Drew Coyne has a large following of students who herald him as the best teacher at Staples. He is recognized for his ability to bring coursework to life and engage his students, Ellie Arrow ‘19, a student of Coyne, commented on Staples students’ admiration for the teacher.
“Mr. Coyne is definitely a Staples hero. He makes US History engaging, and his lessons are always relatable. He knows how to bring out the best in all of his students. I don’t know anyone who doesn’t love him and his energy,” Ellie Arrow ‘19 said.
Coyne gives insight on his teaching style and tendencies, “I try and be the best teacher
for myself – to feel proud that I am contributing to our society in a small way. I also try and do my best for my students. As I watch so many kids cope with increasing stress from college, sports, friends, and family, I often think that if I can be a better teacher, hopefully it can make my students’ lives easier too.”
ED MILTON: Staples beloved social worker and TAG director
You can find him in the outreach office talking away with a group of smiling students surrounding him at lunch hours. Staples students adore Ed Milton’s spirit and efforts in bettering the Staples community.
“Ed is always there for kids when they need him, you can talk to him about absolutely anything. From school, home life, to friends, I know he always has advice to help me in addressing a problem or stress I may have. In a high pressure environment like Staples, it is crucial that we have someone we can turn to for help. Ed is the perfect guy,” James Trinkle ‘19 said.
Also affiliated with Teen Awareness Group (TAG), Ed not only helps students as a social worker, but an advocate for advertising the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse.
Ed comments on what he does and why he enjoys it.
“Often there is a need for additional support when it is not school related, more family issues, giving kids and families an additional help here at school. I think I have one of the coolest jobs. I am amazed and learn from kids all the time.”
ELAINE DAIGNAULT- Social worker, K2BK and TAG director, and friend of Staples students
Working alongside Milton, Elaine Daignault is famous among Staples students for her kind and loving heart.
“Elaine is the absolute sweetest person, and there is no better person to run so many of our inspirational and influential programs implemented at Staples. From TAG, K2BK, or just a trustworthy shoulder to lean on, Elaine is amongst the greatest assets at Staples High School,” Grace Roseme ‘19 said.
Through her work at Staples, Elaine provides many forums for students to be heard about the issues that are important to them.
“I wanted to get involved in the Staples community and make a difference in people’s lives. Elaine’s clubs gave me the outlet to do so, and I couldn’t be happier,” Max Mahr ‘19 said.
DYLAN DIAMOND- Creator of myHAC
Who can remember life before the myHAC app? It seems archaic to log into Home Access on your computer to check your latest test grade. Dylan Diamond’s contributions to the Staples Community are described as heroic by many. Samantha Pacilio praises Dylan regarding the significant convenience of his app, questioning what she would do without it.
“The myHAC app has literally changed my life. I now have all my grades at my fingertips allowing me to know immediately if I need to make any changes or speak to a teacher. It has really helped me improve my grades and ease my stress about school,” Samantha Pacillio ’19 said.
Dylan Diamond’s app has been used by over 150,00 students and has been the second paid educational app in the app store, and as high as number forty seven in all paid categories for the entirety of the app store.
Dylan comments on the success of his app;
“I definitely see the impact each day that myHAC and Staples have made throughout the community and appreciate how they have helped streamline daily student life. I’ll admit that even to this day, walking down the hallway and seeing faces glued to their iPhone screens, either anxiously swiping to view their latest GPA or checking what period is next, still makes me smile.”
Dylan feels pride towards his work that has changed the routine of so many.
“I do feel proud that I have been able to make a difference in the community and benefit people’s lives in some way through my products. I feel successful in that I have learned a lot about technology and business throughout my journey as an app developer/entrepreneur, along with the apps’ success,” Dylan Diamond ‘19 said.
AMBER (Preferred her last name is not published)
It’s noon, you are waiting for the lunch bell to ring, your stomach is growling, and your day dreaming about your sandwich order. You rush to take your place in the long line of hungry students willing to wait for one of Amber’s creation. Billy Hutchinson ‘17 comments on his love for Amber and her sandwiches.
“Being a senior, I’ve been ordering from Amber for four years, she has my order memorized and I know she will make it perfectly. She is the sweetest and most helpful person, and I’d say she’s ranked the number one hero at Staples,” Billy Hutchinson ’17 said.
