Chatham County Schools honors more than 60 students at academic and arts awards

Chatham County Schools recognized more than 60 students on an evening set aside to honor state- and regional-level winners in academics, arts and athletics.

“A goal here tonight is to recognize the outstanding academic achievements and commitment to growth that our students have … exhibited,” Superintendent Dr. Jackson said during opening remarks, urging the community to keep expanding opportunities for students.

Amanda Moran, assistant superintendent for academic services and instructional support, told attendees the slide deck in the meeting packet lists award categories and all student names for public reference. Moran said the honored students were first-place winners at state events or regional first-place winners where a state competition did not exist.

The program covered a broad set of recognitions: All-State band and jazz winners from multiple high schools; state-level theatre and thespian honors including adjudicated superiors; North Carolina elementary and middle-school scholastic competition winners (Quiz Bowl, Quill and Forensics); Governor’s School invitations for 11 students; perfect 36 ACT scores for two students; a Gates Scholar and a National Merit Scholarship finalist; winners in Career and Technical Student Organizations (FFA, HOSA, SkillsUSA); and athletic recognitions across the district’s high schools.

Several district staff and program leaders presented the awards. Brian DeCristofaro, arts instructional program facilitator, called winners by category; Carla Murray, executive director for elementary education, presented elementary recognitions such as the Carson Scholars; LaShonda Hester, executive director of middle grades, read regional science fair and Beta Club winners; and Michelle Burton presented high-school academic distinctions such as perfect ACT scores and scholarship recipients.

District leaders repeatedly framed the event around the district theme for the year, “Shine.” Dr. Jackson told students, “Because of you, we are One Chatham for all students,” and thanked families, teachers and administrators for supporting student opportunity.

The program concluded with a reception and photographs for award groups. The Board of Education’s slide deck listing winners was made available to the public as part of the meeting packet.

Notes: this article covers only the recognition portion of the meeting. Separate action items and votes taken later in the meeting are reported in separate articles.