Please join the Buffalo Public Schools as we present the 152nd Jesse Ketchum Awards. In recognition of the academic excellence of 8th grade students, the Jesse Ketchum awards have been presented for the past 151 years. Dr. Fatima Morrell, Chief of Culturally & Linguistically Responsive Initiatives and President of the Jesse Ketchum Memorial Fund Board will preside over this year’s ceremony. The Ceremony takes place on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at 6:30pm at West Hertel Academy, located at 489 Hertel Avenue, Buffalo, NY, 14207.
For the past 151 years, Jesse Ketchum medals have been awarded to eighth grade students with the highest academic average. This award honors the legacy of Jesse Ketchum, a notable figure in Buffalo history, who is credited with donating land and buildings to establish the first teacher training center in Buffalo. This site, Buffalo Normal School, was the precursor to Buffalo State Teachers College.
This year’s celebration marks the 152nd anniversary of the Jesse Ketchum Awards. The Keynote Speaker is the NYS Director of Diversity & Inclusion, Senator Tim Kennedy, Ms. Zeneta Everhart.
Jesse Ketchum medals are given to students who, according to Ketchum Fund guidelines “make the most of his or her school career, to do the absolute best in daily lessons in order to succeed.” The awards in each school are based upon the highest grades in the 8th grade year in English Language Arts, Social Studies, Mathematics and Science.
We hope you can attend.
