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Monroe County School Board honors staff, Key West teams and awards Purple Star designations
Summary
The board presented GEMS awards to staff and recognized Key West High School cheerleaders and marching band for competitive and international accomplishments. Captain Thompson presented Purple Star School flags to College of the Florida Keys Academy and Sigsbee Charter School.
The Monroe County School Board on Feb. 10 presented staff and students with district commendations, and Naval Air Station Key West presented two schools with Purple Star School designations that recognize support for military-connected students.
Deputy Superintendent Acevedo introduced multiple GEMS awards, praising Monet Ray for student advocacy and work securing a wheelchair for a student, and recognizing Coach Caitlin and the Key West High School cheerleaders for winning a regional title and placing sixth at the state competition. Acevedo also introduced Gary Hernandez, Key West High’s band director, and commended the marching band for performances during an international trip to Rome.
On behalf of Naval Air Station Key West, Captain Thompson presented Purple Star School flags to the College of the Florida Keys Academy, which earned the designation for the first time, and to Sigsbee Charter School, which had its Purple Star status renewed. “This designation is more than a banner. It represents a promise that no military child will navigate change alone,” Captain Thompson said, thanking district staff and schools for their efforts.
Why it matters: The Purple Star designation recognizes schools that provide resources and a welcoming environment for military families who face frequent moves and transitions. The GEMS awards spotlight individual staff members and student groups whose activities—on campus and in the community—support student growth and engagement.
The board took the recognitions as a single agenda item and moved on to other business after the presentations.
