| By Rachel Brandes Moapa Valley Progress Submitted June 4, 2008
The Mack Lyon Middle School 8th grade farewell celebration took place on Thursday, May 29. A crowded gymnasium full of parents, grandparents, and siblings turned out to support the students as they become Pirates. Student Body President Jessica Vallet gave the opening welcomePrincipal Dave Wilson also welcomed parents and recognized those in attendance for their continued support. |
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| A video presentation created by student Pamela Mecham was shown which displayed pictures of the students as babies, in addition to photographs of moments throughout the school year.
Special recognitions were presented, first the Straight “A” Awards were given, six students in all received a certificate for their accomplishment. The Straight “O” Awards were presented to five students for achieving outstanding behavior throughout the year. The Straight “A” Three Years awards were presented to only three students, Lisa Carson, Pamela Mecham, and John Lucas Rockenbach. Librarian Phyllis Leavitt then presented the “Top Banana” awards. “These kids are so darn much fun,” stated Leavitt. Leavitt awarded the two students who went “bananas” with reading. Racking up 811 accelerated reader points was Ricky Glaubitz, Leavitt pointed out that this is equivalent to reading approximately 80 novels. John Lucas Rockenbach was just behind also earning himself a “Top Banana” award. A third “Top Banana” award was presented to departing Principal Dave Wilson. Leavitt expresses her appreciation to Wilson for his support with the reading program. “Thank you for being a reader leader” stated Leavitt. As Leavitt awarded Wilson with a banana award she said, “Here is to hoping the Virgin Valley kids don’t monkey around with you”. |
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The Student Council was recognized as well as the outgoing NJHS members who were recognized for their hard work throughout the year. The 8th grade Achievement Awards were presented to all students and the Presidential Awards were presented by Counselor Norita Espinosa. Silver Certificates were awarded to those who achieved a grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 – 3.79. A total of 28 students received recognition.
The Gold Certificate was presented to students who achieved a 3.8 – 4.0 GPA. Ten students received this award. Students included Katie Barlow, Timothy Burkey, Rebekah Caldwell, Lisa Carson, McColey Mason, Pamela Mecham, Madison Messer, Kaitlyn Oglesby, John Lucas Rockenbach, and Brianna |
| Sheldon. The Excellence Awards were presented by Dave Wilson and Hal Mortensen, these awards were voted on by teachers. John Lucas Rockenbach and Alyssa Zerkle were awarded with the Scholarship Award, Madison Messer and Jonathan Brown were awarded with the Citizenship Award, Kailyn Barlow and Branson Anderson were awarded with the Leadership Award, Rose Steffan and Alyssa Ramos were awarded with the Service Award, and Daniella Carbajal and Kameron Moore were awarded with the Effort Award.
The American Legion Award was presented to John Lucas Rockenbach and Pamela Mecham and the Grant M. Bowler Award was presented to the student who achieved the highest GPA in the class, this student was awarded with a plaque and $50 cash. Lisa Carson was the student recognized with this award. Last but not least the W. Mack Lyon Award was presented by Lyon family representative Cal Lyon. This award was given to Jessica Vallet for demonstrating the greatest leadership. |
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To close the evening Mr. Wilson spoke of his time at Mack Lyon Middle School with fondness. “My students are phenomenal” he said. “It was a hard decision to apply for the Virgin Valley position”.
Wilson expressed his appreciation to parents and his staff for the support through the years. “I love you all, it has been a great ride and I appreciate what you have done for the students,” he said. “I now present the future Class of 2012!” Students and parents enjoyed refreshments before 8th graders made their way to the Old Overton Gym to enjoy their last 8th grade dance. |
