Dependability, patriotism, leadership, and service. Those are the four leading qualities that determine those who are eligible for the Good Citizen contest.

The Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizens program and scholarship contest are designed to encourage and reward those who display good citizenship. At Watertown High School, one student per year is recognized as the school’s DAR Good Citizen applicant.

To be eligible, a student must be nominated by WHS teachers. After the student is chosen, they must write an two personal essays about how they are a good citizen in their community and how they embody dependability, patriotism, leadership, and service.

This school year, senior Kyle Rooney has been honored to become the DAR applicant from WHS. So far, Kyle has won in the Middlesex County region and he will be moving on to have his essay judged at the state level.

According to the DAR website, each state winner receives a monetary award and a special state DAR Good Citizens pin and certificate. The national winner will be invited to Washington, D.C., to attend the DAR Continental Congress and will be awarded a college scholarship. Each of the eight national division (multi-state groups) winners will also receive a cash award.

“It would be really cool to get to travel to D.C if I was one of the final contestants,’’ Kyle said. “I would be honored to represent the school.”

Kyle said that in his essay he wrote about his Irish heritage and how it has helped him affect the community, and how it has helped him develop as a leader.

Kyle has participated in many community activities, such as Camp Sunshine, Social Network, Recycling Club, Service Club, and the Raider Times. Kyle is also a peer mentor and a peer leader. Kyle also volunteers his time and knowledge to help teach young children how to ice skate.

Kyle is passionate about helping his community and making it a better place and that is why he participates in a multitude of activities. He is also passionate about hockey. Not only is Kyle committed to improving the world around him, but he is determined to excel at school and achieve the grades he wants.

Kyle Rooney embodies the qualities of a good citizen and Watertown High School is honored to have him among its students.

–Feb. 23, 2014–