Westport Community Bowls in Honor of Jaden Araujo

Some students leave an impression on their school, while others become part of its heartbeat.

At Westport High School, Jaden Araujo was one of those students.

Nearly everyone knew him, whether it was from the cheerful “beep beep” of the horn on his wheelchair in the hallway, his collection of watches, or the contagious smile that made people stop and say hello.

The “Mayor” of Westport High School

Special education teacher Erin Mello said Jaden’s personality lit up the building.

“He had a contagious smile and a fun, spicy and sassy humor,” Mello said. “He was always happy and loved to laugh and make others laugh.”

Jaden knew the school so well that staff often jokingly called him the “mayor” of Westport High School.

“He knew where every classroom and stairwell was and knew every administrator and teacher by name,” Mello said. “If you were lost, he knew how to get you there.”

He also had a playful way of making sure people acknowledged him.

“When he greeted people in the hallway, he would beep his horn on his wheelchair to get their attention,” Mello said. “If you didn’t say hello back, he wouldn’t stop until you did.”

A Love for Music, Math and Watches

Jaden had an incredible memory and a wide range of interests.

He loved mathematics, watching music videos, taking virtual trips on Google Maps and cruising around the school in his wheelchair. Music was a big part of his life, especially songs by Josh Baldwin, including his favorite, “Stand In Your Love,” which Jaden loved to sing and play on the piano.

Skip ahead to 2:35 below to hear Jaden's performance at the 2022 Westport's Got Talent:

He was also known for his watch collection.

“He had 86 watches,” Mello said.

Jaden could even imitate cartoon voices like Mickey and Minnie Mouse after hearing staff members’ Apple Watches announce the time.

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Honoring Jaden’s Legacy

After Jaden’s unexpected passing, members of the school community wanted to find a meaningful way to honor him.

Melissa Avila, Erin Mello and Ben Marshalek helped organize the Jaden Araujo Memorial Scholarship Bowling Fundraiser, inspired by one of Jaden’s favorite activities.

“During Phys Ed, his activity of choice was bowling,” Avila said. “The other students loved working with him and lining up the pins when he knocked them down.”

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The event also connects to Jaden’s involvement with the Special Olympics, which he competed in each spring.

Funds raised support the Westport High School Special Olympics team and provide a scholarship for graduating seniors who have worked with students of all abilities.

A Community That Shows Up

The fundraiser has drawn strong community support over the past two years.

“Westport truly cares about its families,” Avila said. “Many people show up who never even met Jaden, but by the time they leave, they feel like they’ve known him for a lifetime.”

This year’s event holds special meaning, taking place the day after what would have been Jaden’s 21st birthday.

“It’s such a meaningful event,” Avila said. “You can feel the love there.”

The 3rd Annual Jaden Araujo Memorial Scholarship Bowling Fundraiser will take place Sunday, April 12 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Holiday Lanes in Westport.