Subject
title
Certificates of Recognition for Student Achievers - Richard Montgomery High School Student Achiever
end
Department
City Clerk/Director of Council Operations Office
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Mayor and Council present Certificates of Recognition to Rockville Student Achievers.
Discussion
Aaron Swibel, a sophomore at Richard Montgomery High School, won the Bernard/Ebb Songwriting Awards, which honor the best songwriters in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC. He won in the Youth Category.
The contest includes a live performance at Strathmore and awards one songwriter a grand prize of $10,000 plus $1,500 towards studio recording time at a DMV studio chosen by the winner.
One young songwriter under 17 will also be honored with an award of $2,500. All finalists in both categories will receive smaller cash prizes and will be featured on Strathmore’s social media platforms.
Aaron Swibel creates music that blends pop rock, pop ballads, country, and traditional rock and roll, exploring themes of love, personal angst, and nostalgia. Aaron Swibel began writing as a way to document his thoughts and continues creating to help others reflect on their own emotions. Aaron made his live debut at Outta the Way Cafe in Derwood, Maryland, and participated in the Maryland High School Choir Invitational, conducted by renowned Choral Director, Dr. Jason Max Ferdinand.
Congratulations Aaron!
Please see a sample of a certificate.
Mayor and Council History
The Mayor and Council routinely recognize and celebrate student achievers from Rockville Schools.
Public Notification and Engagement
Richard Montgomery High School administration, Aaron Swibel, and his family will attend the September 15, 2025, Mayor and Council Meeting to receive a Certificate of Recognition for his songwriting achievement.