Abigail Martelle (Provided photo — Adirondack School Portraits)

SARANAC LAKE — State Assemblyman Billy Jones on Nov. 25 spotlighted Saranac Lake High School senior Abigail “Abby” Martelle on his Facebook page. It’s part of a series he said he is starting to showcase students in his district who rise to the challenges forced upon them by COVID-19.

“While students are certainly facing challenges in school due to the pandemic, I wanted to take the opportunity to highlight students from around the 115th AD,” Jones, D-Chateaugay Lake, wrote on his Facebook page. “Today I am showcasing Abigail Martell(e) of Saranac Lake CSD. Abigail has impressed teachers and faculty with how well she has transitioned to a new educational setting and social reality after she moved to the district as an 11th grade student last year. That adjustment alone is difficult, but also add the challenges of remote learning and Abby has show a level of adaptability that is to be admired.

“Abby worked selflessly on the yearbook last year, spending many hours on layout to meet deadlines to make sure that the yearbook was finished on time and presented in excellent quality. This was especially difficult under quarantine conditions, and amazingly, she signed up for this job again this year! Additionally, her band director, Mr. Kogut describes her as a ‘talented kid, who shows compassion for others and has true family connections.’ She also carries a heavy course load as a New Visions Student, but is still able to succeed academically while balancing a flexible work schedule to complete the program. Way to go Abby!”