Oak Mountain students’ strong character lauded

Some people have a knack for getting along with others, and Oak Mountain High School’s Gregory Morris is one of them, according to people who observe him at school.

Morris was one of five students in the Oak Mountain community recognized recently for the strength of their character.

Teachers, counselors and administrators at the five Shelby County schools in the Oak Mountain area had the opportunity to nominate a student for the Character in Action award, sponsored by the Children’s Policy Council. The five students received their awards at a meeting of the Shelby County Drug Free Coalition.

Students who receive Character in Action awards embody leadership characteristics such as responsibility, respect and self-discipline, said Emily Litrell, a social worker for Shelby County Schools. Students must be nominated to receive the award.

 “What we’re trying to do in Shelby County Schools is create well-rounded students on their path to adulthood,” Litrell said.

This was the second year in a row Morris received the award. He was nominated at Oak Mountain Middle School last year, and faculty at Oak Mountain High School who nominated him did not know, Litrell said.

“Gregory’s ability to relate to others and make friendships is extraordinary,” Litrell said, reading quotes from nominating teachers. “He treats everyone with respect and seems to truly respect individual differences.”

Teachers who nominated Jacob Oliver, an Oak Mountain Middle School student, noted his dedication to his schoolwork and others.

“He never forgets to make up work. He never asks for extra time, and he never tries to get out of doing his work,” Litrell read from the nomination comments. “He runs errands for his teachers and constantly helps his classmates when needed.”

Oak Mountain Intermediate School student Julian Nicholson was nominated for his responsibility, dedication to academics and willingness to befriend others.

“A great example of Julian and his friendliness is his willingness to befriend students who do not necessarily make the best choices behaviorally,” Litrell said. “Julian tried to be a role model for these students who don’t necessarily have any friends.”

Julia Beuche, an Inverness Elementary School student, was recognized for the multiple leadership roles she holds at school. Bush is team captain in gym class, a library master who assists students in finding and checking out books and a peer helper in music class.

“Julia’s daily attitude is doing the right thing, even if no one is looking,” Litrell said. “She has a genuine, truthful and sincere approach to her friends and school.”

Alyssa LaCally is an active participant in Oak Mountain Elementary School’s Leader in Me program, and she helped display the “seven habits” at their school. The seven habits are qualities students are encouraged to exhibit, such as prioritizing their work, beginning tasks with the end in mind and being proactive.

“Alyssa is kind to everyone," Litrell said. "If she notices that someone is having a bad day, she makes it her personal mission to make their day better.”

To conclude the presentation, Shelby County District and Juvenile Judge Jim Kramer thanked the parents and administrators present at the ceremony. All of the individuals in these students’ lives have made a positive impact to create strong leaders, Kramer said.