Carle Place High School seniors Lauren Skelton and Michael Kelly were honored by the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance's Nassau Zone as the Outstanding Physical Education Award recipients for 2000. Both Lauren and Mike were honored on Monday, Dec. 11 at an awards dinner held at the Milleridge Cottage in Jericho. In attendance were Lauren's and Mike's parents, physical education teachers Christine Ceruti, Jennifer Yannacone, Marino Ceccoli and Jim Colligan, the director of Physical Education, as well as the recipients from the other high schools around Nassau County.

Michael Kelly is a superb student-athletic. He is currently ranked 7th in a class of 112 and has earned an impressive 97.9 weighted average. Michael serves as vice president of the Spanish Honor Society, secretary of the Student Organization, and is a member of the National Honor Society, Math Honor Society, and Mock Trial Team. As an athlete, Michael is an All-County golfer and earned All-Conference honors as the starting point guard on the boys' basketball team. He led his team in steals, assists, and is an accurate shooter from the floor.

"As a student of physical education, Michael Kelly is the ideal student. Self-motivated, with an outstanding work ethic, Michael gives 100 percent effort in all class activities. His willingness to work with younger students on their basketball skills makes him an outstanding role model," noted a spokesperson for the Carle Place Physical Education Department, adding, "Lauren Skelton is an exceptional physical education student. She is highly self-motivated and possesses the desire and determination to accept any challenge. Lauren's increased sense of awareness and initiative makes her a leader in the classroom."

In addition, Lauren is a pivotal athletic on both the varsity gymnastics and track teams. Lauren earned All-Division in both the high hurdles and the 4 x 100 relay team, qualifying as a high hurdler in the States. This very talented dancer teaches dance in her spare time. She has participated in all of the school's musicals, is a member of the Key Club, and the board of SADD. "Lauren Skelton is a well-rounded student-athlete who will no doubt positively influence many and succeed in life," stated the school representative.

The representative added, "On behalf of the entire physical education department, we want to congratulate both Lauren and Michael for their outstanding effort, cooperation, and achievements in physical education, the interscholastic and extra-curricular programs, as well as their academic successes. Both of these students are exceptional leaders and superb role models for their peers. They have represented the Class of 2001 and Carle Place High School with dignity and class."