Three Catawba County Schools Shining Stars were recognized at the Catawba County Board of Education September meeting. Cooper B. of Banoak Elementary, Madi S. of Mill Creek Middle and Mack H. of Maiden High were named Catawba County Schools Shining Stars for September.

Pictured above are Madi S., Mack H. and Cooper B. Each student received a Shining Star trophy and certificate and a meal coupon fand certificate from Texas Roadhouse. Their schools also received a certificate.

 Following are summaries of their nominations.

Cooper B.

Grade 3 – Banoak Elementary

Nominated by Denise Taylor

Cooper B. - what an awesome kid! he is! Not only is he a role model student, he is kind, thoughtful and caring toward his peers. He especially looks after a child who has a severe illness in his class. He does it in such an unassuming way, never drawing attention to himself, or trying to garner credit for his kindness. He always seems to be purposefully mindful of how his actions may be perceived by the other child. He does this so the child will feel that it is not such a big deal that he needs someone to help him carry his books  - or ride the elevator with him - or walk beside him just in case he falls, as has happened several times already this year. He does this even thought it might take twice as long to arrive at the destination. Cooper seems to be beyond his years in the compassion and wisdom he shows and he is certainly a Shining Star at Banoak. 

Madison “Madi” S.

Grade 8 - Mill Creek Middle

Nominated by Yvonne Hildebrand

Madi Story is an 8th grade student at Mill Creek Middle School who is truly an exemplary student, displaying citizenship and many leadership traits both in the school and community. She is mature young lady who is always compassionate and willing to help others. She works diligently in the classroom, leads by example, and is respected by her peers.  Her handbell teacher said that Madi wanted to take her music home to practice, using pencils instead of hand bells. Madi quickly advanced to playing four bells and then assisted others in the class who were having trouble.  Her former Language Arts teacher pointed out that she is a wonderful writer and includes conversation in her papers and goes to great length in describing the characters and settings so that her readers will envision every component.

Madi is a member of the Junior Beta Club. For the second year she is an officer and member of the Leadership Team with Mill Creek’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes.  Her responsibility is not only planning the monthly FCA meetings but also publicizing them to the student body. She is a member of the Yearbook Staff this year, responsible for page creations, layout, pictures, write-ups and proofing.

Madi is a three-sport athlete: volleyball, basketball and softball. She is the team captain this year for her volleyball squad. Her coaches say she is a leader by example in all three sports and her dedication for excellence shines through. She is active in several AAU programs in the community and on various youth leagues. Her fellow players acknowledge her skill level and see her sense of humor and her smile as contagious. We at Mill Creek are proud of Madison Story as our Shining Star Nominee.

 Mack H.

Grade 12- Maiden High School

Nominated by Lt. Col. Andy Denny 

Cadet Colonel Mack H. is the perfect candidate of the "Shining Star" program. Cadet H. is the Vice Commander (#2 in command) this semester of the 140 cadets in the Maiden AFJROTC program. Next semester he will be the Commander. Mack is also a Drum Major in the Blue Devil Marching Band this semester.

In AFJROTC Cadet H. displays the leadership qualities that we relish in our cadets. He is very professional in his contacts with other cadets and the instructors. Cadet H. is especially patient with the new cadets or less experienced cadets as he assists with their training. He is very knowledgeable in every aspect of AFJROTC training and activities. Cadet H. sets the perfect example for all of our cadets and is definitely a "shining star" in AFJROTC!

Mack is also proving to be an excellent leader with the Marching Band as well. The Band is progressing rapidly toward their competition season due to the leadership of Mack. His positive attitude and professionalism is contagious! He is well respected by his peers!

In addition to being very involved in AFJROTC and the Marching Band, Mack also is in the top 10 academically in the senior class. “I highly recommend Cadet Colonel Mack H. for the Shining Star award,” said his nominator, Lt. Col Andy Denny of Maiden High School.