Board honors students, volunteers and legacy recipients at Mo Gaba Positivity and Perseverance Awards
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Summary
AACPS presented the fifth annual Mo Gaba awards honoring students across grade levels and a legacy recipient; each winner receives a $500 Education Foundation grant for a school project and family members were present for the ceremony.
Anne Arundel County Public Schools used its Feb. 4 board meeting to present the fifth annual Mo Gaba Positivity and Perseverance Awards, honoring students and volunteers who embody resilience, kindness and leadership.
Monika Monk, director of communications, said the program began as a tribute to one student and now recognizes dozens of nominees districtwide. Winners included Maylene Alvarenga Diaz (elementary primary), Clyde Hicks (elementary intermediate), Riley Whitney (middle school), Kezia Kai Bohin (high school) and Ashton Graham (Legacy Award). Monk noted the Education Foundation of AACPS provided a $500 grant for each winner to fund a school initiative intended to spread kindness and positivity.
Monk thanked the awards committee, Design and Print Services and district staff who support nominations and the online archive at www.aacps.org/mogaba. Guests included Mo Gaba’s mother, Sonzi, and long‑time aide Lynn Leach.
The board and presenters emphasized inclusion and the program’s role in elevating student voice. Several honorees and family members were invited forward for photos during a break.
The board paused afterward for refreshments and a short recess to allow family photographs in the foyer.