Students Receive Athletic and Incentive Awards

By Andrea Holata

TAMPA — On August 3, the Tampa community came together to recognize the Seminole students who excelled in academics and sports during the past school year. The students were treated to dinner, a motivational speaker, and of course, awards.

The night began with dinner provided by the Hard Rock staff. Everyone enjoyed the delicious food which included chicken, roast-beef, corn, rice, and several choices of dessert. After everyone ate, Danny Santiago introduced the motivational speaker, Howard Rainer.

Rainer spoke on the importance of literacy and how reading will help you to succeed. Although he didn't speak long, Rainer had some good advice for the students.

“ Believe, read, and you will succeed,” he said.

Thanks to Mr. Rainer for the encouraging words.

Next Mr. Santiago introduced Cindy Hughes, who is the director of education assistant. Hughes spoke about how she was excited about the Seminole students’ achievements, and how they seem to be getting smarter and smarter every year.

Afterwards, it was time to recognize the students for all of their hard work. The sports awards were given first. All the athletes received awards for participating. Sierra Simmons, who is the daughter of Keith and Myra Simmons took home the most trophies from basketball, softball and many others. Congratulations athletes for all your hard work.

Finally, it was time for academics. The students were excited and very eager to be recognized. The students received awards for all A’s, all B’s, most improved, awards and certificate and for missing three days or less.

Many thanks go out to the education department for providing the students with backpacks and gift cards to help the students start their school year off right.

The academics awards were given to the following:

A Average: Brenna Walton, second grade, Andrew Henry, third grade, Dakota Henry, fourth grade, Ashley Santiago, eighth grade.

All A’s and B’s: Jennie Eagle, first grade, Brenna Walton, second grade, Jesse Caldwell, second grade, Jacob Santiago, third grade, Andrew Henry, third grade, Sumer Carroll, fourth grade, Dakota Henry, fourth grade.

B Average: Jennie Eagle, first grade, Kyle Henry, seventh grade, Trystan Storm, first grade, Sierra Simmons, eighth grade, Danelle Thomas, first grade, Clayton Simmons, ninth grade, Ricky Dillon, first grade, Ethan Smith, first grade, Jessie Caldwell, second grade, Jacob Santiago, third grade, Emmitt Caldwell, fourth grade, Samuell Caldwell, fifth grade, Dylanie Henry, fourth grade, Summer Caroll, fourth grade, Tiffany Foret, sixth grade, Devin Doctor, sixth grade.

Three or less days absent: Dakota Henry, Ashley Santiago, Andrew Henry.

Kindergarten Awards: Calamity Caldwell, Christina Clarke, Ohana Henry, Rachel Jumper, Ryanna Thomas, Kanika Walkingstick.

Awards and Certificate Winners: Kyle Henry, Jacob Santiago, Jeremiah Santiago, Joseph Santiago, Mitchell Simmons.

Improved GPA: Peter Foret.