Morris County Superintendent’s Middle School Leadership Award

Mount Olive Middle School Student Honored with Morris County Superintendent’s Middle School Leadership Award

March 2026

Mount Olive Middle School is proud to announce that eighth grade student Zoe Rock has been selected as this year’s recipient of the Morris County Superintendent’s Middle School Leadership Award, a prestigious honor recognizing outstanding student leaders across Morris County.

Presented annually, the award recognizes one eighth grade student from each participating middle school in Morris County who exemplifies exceptional leadership, citizenship, and character. Recipients are students who make a meaningful difference in their school communities through academic dedication, participation in extracurricular activities, and service to others. The award celebrates students who lead by example and consistently demonstrate integrity, responsibility, and respect for their peers and teachers.

Zoe was selected by Mount Olive Middle School staff for her strong academic performance, leadership among her peers, and the many ways she contributes to the school community. At Mount Olive Middle School, Zoe is an active member of numerous programs and activities. She participates in Drama Club, Select Choir, the National Junior Honor Society, and the girls’ soccer team. She also serves as president of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, demonstrating her dedication to the school’s music program. Zoe is involved in band and chorus and participates in Unified Gym, where students of all abilities work together in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Beyond school, Zoe continues to pursue her passion for the performing arts. She is an accomplished young actress who has appeared on television and on Broadway, including in productions such as Gypsy. She is also a dedicated athlete and serves as captain of the STA club soccer team.

Students receiving the award from across the county are honored each spring at a recognition ceremony hosted by the Morris County Association of School Administrators, where families, educators, and school leaders gather to celebrate the accomplishments of these exceptional young leaders.

Mount Olive Township School District Superintendent Dr. Sumit Bangia congratulated Zoe on this achievement.

“Zoe embodies the qualities that this award was created to recognize,” said Dr. Bangia. “Her leadership, character, and commitment to both her academics and her school community make her an outstanding role model for her peers. We are incredibly proud to see her recognized at the county level.”

For Zoe, the recognition reflects a mindset she carries with her each day. “At the end of the day, if I can say I tried my best, it was a good day,” she said.

Mount Olive Middle School congratulates Zoe on this well deserved honor and thanks her for the leadership and positivity she brings to the school community every day.