Williston Mayor Jerry Robinson and the City Council recognized their Students of the Month at the March 8 board meeting.

            Kayden Sams, a 1^st grader at Joyce Bullock Elementary School and son of Marscella Sneed was nominated by Mrs. Graham. She said Kayden is a superhero. A real-life superhero. His extraordinary superpower is the ability to inspire others and spread joy to everyone he meets. He inspires conscientiousness, respect, and generosity. When he smiles, it is truly impossible not to smile back. But Kayden’s superpowers extend far beyond his responsibility, kindness, and altruism. Kayden’s superpower also lies in his strength! Sure, Kayden’s superhero muscles help him stack our chairs up every afternoon (a responsibility he takes very seriously), but his true strength comes from his heart and his mind. The strength of his heart helps him motivate his peers, show compassion, and empathize with others. The strength of Kayden’s mind drives his unquenchable thirst for knowledge. Kayden NEVER backs down from a challenge He’s excited by them and is always sure to rise above when things get tough. Most remarkably, he regularly encourages his classmates to adopt the same mindset. With Kayden around, I never have to fear! Our class can always count on his outstanding character, leadership, and positive influence.

            Deonte “Tae” White, a 2^nd grader at Vision Christian Academy and son of Kayla Martinez and Deonte White, Sr., was nominated by Carolyn Smith who made the following comments. Deonte is an A-B honor roll student and never gets in trouble. Deonte is a remarkable young man. He displays a quiet confidence and is always considerate of his classmates. Deonte is always willing to help others when needed. He has made amazing progress this school year! Deonte is always respectful and obedient. I am so glad to Deonte as one of my students.

            Eli Thompson, a 2^nd grader at Joyce Bullock Elementary School and son of Maura Thompson was nominated by Neitz and E. Thompson who made the following comments. Eli is one of the most sincere friends that we have had the pleasure of teaching. He genuinely cares for his peers and makes sure to be a good friend to everyone. Eli always checks on his friends and classmates and never hesitates to lend a helping hand. He works very hard in class and is such a good model student. His big heart and infectious smile are a joy to have in our class.

            Zahir Leblank, a 5^th grader at Williston Elementary School and son of Yovanka Ceballos was nominated by teacher Kathleen Olson and Principal Emily Hancock. They said Zahir is an exemplary student. His love of learning and life is an inspiration for everyone. He is humble, kind, and a truly genuine individual. Zahir is a leader in everything he does and tackles any challenge he faces head-on with a smile on his face. Zahir competed in the District Spelling Bee representing Williston Elementary School. A fellow contestant was told they spelled the word incorrectly. Zahir raised his hand to stop the competition to inform the judges that the way the other contestant spelled the word matched what students were given as a study guide. The student was allowed to continue in the spelling bee. Zahir went on to win the District Spelling Bee and will represent WES at Regionals in March.

            Janelle Clay, a 7^th grader at Williston Middle High School and daughter of Tyophoia and Kimberly Clay, was nominated by Scarlett McGowan. Janelle works her tail off! Sometimes she struggles with a new concept in class, but she never gives up. Her attitude about school is so refreshing – I love to see her joy and excitement in class, even when others are not as engaged. Janelle is an AVID student who carries these skills into all her classes. She is not afraid of hard work and even managed to improve her reading comprehension skills to a proficient level over the summer break.

——————–

City of Williston Regular Meeting March 8, 2022; Posted March 13, 2022