Four Northampton Area High School seniors were recently recognized by the Northampton Exchange Club as Students of the Month for March and April.

Recognized during a dinner meeting April 3 were Kayla Rajsky, March Girl of the Month; Kyle Bauer, March Boy of the Month; Megan Martuscelli, April Girl of the Month; and Nathaniel Xander, April Boy of the Month. The students received lamps of knowledge trophies, framed meritorious Youth of the Month certificates and pens.

The event highlighted each student for outstanding scholastic achievements and activities.

Dr. Rodger Berg, program chairman, said credit must also go to the parents for the values they instilled in their children. All the honorees have in common the support of their parents, he said.

The students were told the journey through life is like climbing a ladder. Although it comes with a different set of challenges, success can be achieved with each step taken. The rungs on a ladder of life represent leadership, academic success and involvement in school activities.

"Nothing comes easy," said Berg, noting some students do not succeed because it requires too much time and effort.

"I challenge you to reach higher," he said.

A willingness to help others is another trait the honorees possess, Berg said.

"They have done well, climbed slowly, but surely," Berg said, adding their academic and leadership traits were instilled and fostered years before they entered high school.

Rajsky is a member of National Honor Society, SAAD (Students Against Destructive Decisions), Math Club, Scholastic Scrimmage, Science Olympiad and Spanish Club. She also does volunteer work.

Bauer is a member of National Honor Society, Drama Club, Science Olympiad, Scholastic Scrimmage, orchestra and jazz band. He serves as a church pianist, assistant baseball coach and lifeguard.

Martuscelli is a member of National Honor Society, SAAD (Students Against Destructive Decisions), Drama Club, marching band, pit band, concert band and wind ensemble. She participates in lights and sounds and Caring Kids and is a church Sunday school volunteer.

Xander is a member of National Honor Society and German Club and a participant in GAPP (German American Partnership Program). He plays doubles as a member of the varsity tennis team and is an Eagle Scout.