Last month, first year Principal of Clinton High School Jerry Wayne introduced a new program to his students.

Wayne feels there are many aspects to celebrating the achievements of students. He points to athletics and scholarships as ways students receive recognition, but to celebrate the students more regularly, Wayne is introducing a new "Student of the Month" program at the high school.

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According to Wayne, he has had many conversations with his staff about what they'd like to see as credentials for students to achieve "Student of the Month" status. He heard characteristics such as respect for all, a positive work ethic and involvement in the school.

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The teachers make the recommendations and there will be a student of the month for each class. Wayne indicates students can win the award more than once. He held off on making the announcement to the students to see how they do without knowledge of the award.

The freshmen student of the month was Kylie Patterson. According to Wayne, Kyli is the student that you want in your class. She is concerned about her academics and always willing to participate. Kyli is the type of student that keeps the class running smoothly but is typically overlooked for awards such as SoM. She isn't involved in every activity, she isn't going to boast about herself, but students like Kyli make classrooms a wonderful place to teach. Kyli is a quiet leader and wonderful role model. She has great attendance and is a true pleasure to have in class. Her notes and quality of work is very high and she consistently participates in class.

The sophomore class student of the month from September was Aaron Gamsby. Wayne indicates not only does Aaron have high marks in all of his classes, he takes a leadership role in those classes as well. Aaron is kind and respectful to not only his teachers but also his peers. In a classroom setting Aaron will be the first student to ask clarifying questions or to help other students if they are having difficulty with something. Aaron also shines in providing an exceptional model for behavior, as he is extremely focused and well-behaved. Also, he encourages other students to be respectful and well - behaved as well.

Sami Mitchell was the junior student of the month. Wayne says he could list all the positive attributes a 'Student of the Month' is supposed to have--her intelligence, her wit, her sense of humor, her common sense, her contribution and involvement in school and extra-curricular activities, her positive contributions in class--but I'm nominating her because of some other intangible quality she possesses: she makes me glad I'm a teacher. Miss Mitchell, when she comes to class, just seems to re-energize me as well as her classmates; perhaps it's because she is always upbeat, always smiling, always looking at the glass FULL! She will go out of her way to help someone in need, take him or her under her wing, share what she knows in a completely non-condescending way. She is here to learn. Whatever is out there, she gobbles it up and then wants more.

And the senior student of the month was Sarah Williams. Wayne says Sarah is perhaps the kindest soul he know. She gets along with everyone and wants to make others happy. She also finds the time to be successful in everything she does!