The board paused its business to recognize schools and students for recent achievements. Dr. Danita Dalrevis led honors for Alexander Early College, noting the school exceeded growth for a third straight year and earned an A on the state school report card; Principal Mary Brown was recognized for leading the school’s progress.

West Alexander Middle School staff were also recognized for exceeding growth; the presenter said the state rated West a B school based on performance and growth. Both schools were invited forward to receive celebratory remarks and a banner (the banner had not yet been completed).

The board also honored a junior rescue competition team composed of students including Wyatt Johnson, Hunter Dancy and others, who traveled to Fayetteville and finished second in the state. The team’s sponsors, Cole Sharp and Riley Whitener, and team members were recognized; presenters noted the team earned the Chad Smith Spirit Award and were the first junior team to receive that award.

Superintendent Griffin and board members congratulated the honorees and invited them to remain for the business portion of the meeting or to be dismissed. No formal action was required for the recognitions.