Tag Archive for: #studentspotlight

VCS November Student Spotlight Honorees

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Two Vance County Schools fifth graders share the November Student Spotlight, whose goal is to celebrate exceptional students who are making a difference in their schools.

This month’s honorees are Olivia Zheng of Dabney Elementary and MiLay Cheek at New Hope Elementary, according to Grace Herndon, VCS Communication & Innovative Support.

The Student Spotlight program, sponsored by Vance County Schools and the Vance County Public School Foundation, aims to celebrate students who demonstrate excellence in academics and exhibit commendable qualities like kindness, dedication and a commitment to personal growth.

 

Olivia Zheng, Dabney Elementary

Olivia Zheng, a fifth grader at Dabney Elementary, is described as a model student. She is an excellent student and also promotes a harmonious school environment. Olivia’s

love for math and dreams of a future in the medical field showcase her passion for learning and making a difference. Her motivation to attend school comes from positive experiences with teachers and friendships. She is fascinated by the history of the Mayans and Aztecs and enjoys helping peers with homework.

Aside from academics, Olivia has always aspired to visit Hawaii. If Olivia could have any superpower, she would choose teleportation so that she could go to Disneyland. Moreover, she actively contributes to her school community by assisting peers with homework, showcasing her commitment to collaboration. Her advice to fellow students is to work and study hard, listen to teachers, and follow the rules. Olivia’s admiration extends to her parents,

who serve as a source of care and support in her life. If given a magic wand, Olivia’s wish would be for money.

 

MiLay Cheek, New Hope Elementary 

MiLay has a love of learning and demonstrates a dedication to whatever she does. Since

transitioning from virtual school to New Hope, MiLay has felt the warmth of the school community

and the encouragement from dedicated teachers, especially Mrs. Broughton, who keeps her excited about learning. MiLay’s passion for literature is evident, finding joy in reading for fun. Academic goals fuel her dreams, with hopes of attending STEM Early High and ultimately reaching Harvard to pursue her passion of becoming a veterinarian. MiLay has taken an interest in the Aztecs, Mayans, and Incas in Social Studies. While MiLay focuses on school and family, she finds inspiration in her aunt and mom—two strong role models who embody resilience and hard work.

Beyond academics, MiLay extends kindness to her peers, stepping in to mediate conflicts and create a positive atmosphere. Her dream adventure takes her to Washington, DC, where she envisions exploring the White House with friends. Her advice to fellow students centers on making good choices, focusing on schoolwork, and setting life goals. If granted a superpower, MiLay would choose mind reading to understand people’s thoughts.

VCS Announces September Student Spotlight Honorees

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Information courtesy of Aarika Sandlin, Vance County Schools Chief Officer of Communication & Innovative Support

 

Vance County Schools has named its three Student Spotlight winners for September. De’Shun Woods of Vance County Early College, Adreyan Burton of Vance County High School and Taelyn Evans of E.M. Rollins STEAM Academy are the first honorees for the 2023-24 school year.

Students are selected for demonstrating exemplary qualities and contributions to their school communities, according to Aarika Sandlin, VCS Chief Officer of Communication & Innovative Support. The Student Spotlight program, sponsored by Vance County Schools and the Vance County Public School Foundation, aims to celebrate outstanding students who are making a meaningful difference in their schools.

 

De’Shun Woods, senior, Vance County Early College

Woods is a senior at Vance County Early College. He is a natural leader, said Student Government Association Sponsor Brian Schlessinger, who commended Woods for his “innate

leadership qualities and dedication to helping others.” He demonstrates leadership through his academic achievements and his willingness to provide guidance and support to his peers.

Biology teacher Vicki-Ann Fullwood Barrett cited his “consistent performance in the classroom and engagement in discussions, which have been commendable. Beyond academics, he has demonstrated a commitment to being well-rounded through involvement in extracurricular activities, showcasing his dedication to personal growth.”

Woods is vice president of the Student Government Association, president of the Beta Club and

and serves as community service director of the National Honor Society. He plays clarinet and is the woodwind captain for the Vance County High Band. Woods was crowned Homecoming King recently and is a Vance-Granville Community College ambassador. And if that’s not enough, Woods also has a job with Chick-fil-A of Henderson.

Criminology is one of his favorite classes, and Woods has stated that he would like to pursue a criminal justice degree at N.C. State University to prepare him for a career with the N.C. State Highway Patrol. Woods said recently that the class is learning policing styles and discrimination in law enforcement, which motivates him to encourage more minorities to join the profession.

In his down time, Woods likes to listen to R&B music and watch his favorite TV show, The Blacklist. He said his mother is his biggest role model – she works hard and he values her leadership qualities. When asked what advice he would share with others, he said that students must have a voice for themselves and not be deterred by others’ opinions. He wants to encourage people to help one another and become the best version of themselves. De’Shun Woods is a shining example of a student positively impacting the Vance County Early College community and the community at-large.

Adreyan Burton, Junior, Vance County High School

Burton, a junior at Vance County High School, shines brightly as the Student Spotlight for September. His journey at the school is marked by outstanding scholarship and leadership. His commitment to academics and his consistent placement at the top of his class is a testament to his dedication to excel in his studies, school leaders state.

His passion for knowledge is evident in his willingness to go above and beyond in his

schoolwork, always striving for excellence. Beyond academic achievements, Burton possesses an extraordinary leadership gifts that motivate and engage others. He inspires his peers and contributes to a positive learning environment.

His favorite subject is English, because he said it keeps his mind sharp and focused. But he takes time for activities outside the classroom like donning the VCS Viper costume for school and sports activities.

Burton exhibits empathy and kindness in all that he does and he is known for his willingness to help anyone in need, whether it’s creating a culture of support and inclusion at school or inviting a homeless person to a restaurant to make sure that individual had at least one meal that day.

Weightlifting helps him stay in shape and he also enjoys riding 4-wheelers, the music of Hunxo and Lil Tony and TV’s “The Regular Show.”

He admires his mom for teaching him independence and advises others to focus on themselves, be unique and keep smiling.

With aspirations of being an entrepreneur, Burton said he could see himself flipping house or having his own clothing store. His dream adventure includes a visit to Jamaica to enjoy the beaches and the cuisine unique to that Caribbean island.

Taelyn Evans, 4th grader, EM Rollins STEAM Academy 

Evans, a 4th grader at E.M. Rollins STEAM  Academy, was recognized for her exceptional talents and dedication for learning. She comes to class eager to listen, learn, and excel in all subject areas. Her commitment to education is seen in her academic achievements, but also in her willingness to assist her classmates with their questions and assignments. She is a great team player and collaborates well with her peers, making her a dependable and supportive classmate.

Math is her favorite subject because her teacher, Ebony Watkins, makes content fun, she said.

Beyond her academic focus, her passion for

learning is matched only by her love for dancing and

singing. She is a member of Queen of Diamonds dance team and superstar Beyonce is her role model in the area of performing arts. She participates in school musical performances and plays baseball in the community.

Asked what advice she would give to other students, Evans said she wants everyone to do their best, try hard, and remember what they learn in class. Also, to stay calm and have good behavior. She aspires to be a singer and a veterinarian because she loves singing and animals, especially dogs. Asked if she could go on an adventure in the world, she shared that she would visit Africa to see animals and

Jamaica to reconnect with a former teacher. Her motivation for attending school every day is that her mom wants her to have a good education, along with her siblings and a large, loving family.

It’s her dedication and enthusiasm for learning that puts this young lady in the September Student Spotlight. Her teachers are proud to witness her growth, achievements and her commitment to helping other students within the school.

Vance Co. Schools Recognizes Student Spotlight Recipients

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-Information courtesy Vance County Schools’ Facebook page

Eight students who have been selected as Student Spotlight award recipients were honored on Monday, February 11, 2019, at the Vance County Board of Education meeting.

Nancy Wykle, publisher of The Daily Dispatch, presented each recipient with a framed certificate.

Honored were: Marisol Hernandez of E.M. Rollins Elementary; Nashanti Richardson of Early College High; Roland Chavez Galindo of Carver Elementary; Randy Palacios of AdVance Academy; Ruby Zuniga Trejo of STEM Early High; Andrew Chiem of Dabney Elementary; Chloe Hightower (not pictured) of Clarke Elementary; and Anderson Boyd of Aycock Elementary.

Superintendent Anthony Jackson and Board Chairwoman Dorothy Gooche congratulated each recipient.

The students are nominated by their teachers, principals and fellow students.

They received the award based on their outstanding character, compassion and caring for others and their strong commitment to making the most of their educational opportunities.

Eight Student Spotlight award recipients were honored on Monday, February 11, 2019, at the Vance County Board of Education meeting. Honored were: Marisol Hernandez of E.M. Rollins Elementary; Nashanti Richardson of Early College High; Roland Chavez Galindo of Carver Elementary; Randy Palacios of AdVance Academy; Ruby Zuniga Trejo of STEM Early High; Andrew Chiem of Dabney Elementary; Chloe Hightower (not pictured) of Clarke Elementary; and Anderson Boyd of Aycock Elementary. (Photo Courtesy Vance Co. Schools)

Student Spotlight Award Winners Honored

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-Press Release, Vance County Schools

A total of 17 Vance County Schools students, who everyday display good character and compassion for others and who are committed to making the most of their educational opportunities, were honored during the evening of May 21 at the “Student Spotlight” banquet held at the Henderson Country Club.

Approximately 150 family members, school system administrators, local educators and local community leaders, attended the event to honor each of the award-winning students.

Jason Brown, a graduate of Northern Vance High School who went on to star in the National Football League, was the featured speaker for the event. He gave a passionate address to the students and guests that focused on overcoming personal obstacles and working hard to achieve your goals.

The banquet was presented by the staff of The Daily Dispatch, the newspaper in Henderson. Nancy Wykle, publisher of the newspaper, led the proceedings. The Daily Dispatch is the leading sponsor of the “Student Spotlight” recognition program, along with Vance County Schools. Additional sponsors for the program include: the Vance County Public School Foundation; Prim Development and Residential Rentals; Mako Medical Laboratories; and the Henderson Kiwanis Club.

Those who helped to fund the banquet are Duke Energy, Greystone Concrete Products Inc., H.G. Reynolds Inc., Judge Randolph Baskerville and Vance-Granville Community College.

Those students honored as “Student Spotlight” award winners for 2017-2018 included:

“Student Spotlight” award winners are shown and include, first row from left, Omar Saleh, Tanner Abbott, Jordan Glover, Jeremiah Williams, Catherine Cruz-Ochoa, Carley Walthall and Angela Ponce. On the second row from left, are LaKaiyah Miller, Jordon Hester, Christian Castillo, Eyana Hargrove, Emani Foster, Ja’Quavious Harris, La’Tina Crute, Kwaji Bullock and Madonna Baselios. (Photo: CHRISTINE T. NGUYEN / The Daily Dispatch staff)

  • Tanner Abbott, a third grader at Aycock Elementary School
  • Madonna Baselios, an 11th grader at Southern Vance High School
  • Kwaji Bullock, a 12th grader at Northern Vance High School
  • Christian Castillo, a seventh grader at Henderson Middle School
  • La’Tina Crute, a fifth grader at Pinkston Street Elementary School
  • Catherine Cruz-Ochoa, a fourth grader at Carver Elementary School
  • Emani Foster, a 10th grader at Early College High School
  • Jordan Glover, a sixth grader at Eaton-Johnson Middle School
  • Eyana Hargrove, a 12th grader at AdVance Academy
  • Ja’Quavious Harris, a fourth grader at Zeb Vance Elementary School
  • Jordon Hester, a third grader at Clarke Elementary School
  • LaKaiyah Miller, a fourth grader at New Hope Elementary School
  • Angela Ponce, a third grader at E.O. Young, Jr. Elementary School
  • Omar Saleh, a fourth grader at E.M. Rollins Elementary School
  • Isreal Terry, a seventh grader at STEM Early High School
  • Carley Walthall, a fourth grader at Dabney Elementary School
  • Jeremiah Williams, a fourth grader at L.B. Yancey Elementary School