Chelsea students recognized at Character in Action presentation

Five Chelsea students were recognized for their exemplary character Thursday morning.

The students’ teachers and administrators nominated them for Character in Action awards, which are presented by the Children’s Policy Council.

“We’ve tried to establish a program that recognizes the students we don’t see in the [juvenile justice] system,” said Shelby County Juvenile Judge Jim Kramer.

Emily Littrell, social worker for Shelby County Schools, said she appreciated the opportunity to recognize the students who have demonstrated excellent character in Chelsea.

“This is a non-academic award,” Littrell said. “Although getting good grades in school is very important and will open countless doors to students continuing into college and post-graduate work, in reality in the real world, you’re probably not going to be asked what grades you made in school.”

After school, Littrell said people will be concerned about leadership qualities and individual character more than grades.

Jacob Giles, a senior at Chelsea High School, was recognized for his respectful and kind attitude, Littrell said. Giles is a member of peer helpers at the high school and works as a mentor and tutor.

“He always treats others fairly and is very conscientious about others and their feelings,” Littrell read from nominator’s comments. “Jacob stands out not only because he strives to do his best in all endeavors but because he is not concerned with the popular route.”

Ty Adema, and eighth grader at Chelsea Middle School, was recognized for how polite and courteous he is to staff and other students, Littrell said. Adema is active in football and wrestling and helps with special needs students at CMS.

“Ty’s wrestling coach shared that he demonstrates great leadership qualities that consist of responsibility, work ethic, determination and desire to be successful,” Littrell said. “…His ability to work for the betterment for the team as opposed to personal gain is rare for someone his age and speaks volumes about the kind of person he is.”

Katelyn Shirley, a fifth grader at Forest Oaks Elementary, was recognized for her ability to set a positive example for her peers and show consideration toward others. Those who nominated Shirley said she has an ability to stand above drama that erupts among other students, and they admire her courage to remain uninvolved.

“She makes it her business to make all of our students feel loved, wanted and included,” Littrell read from the nominator’s comments. “I have never seen a student or an individual with whom Katelyn can’t work with.”

Branah Jones, a fifth grader at Mt Laurel Elementary, was nominated for her responsibility and motivation. Jones is a member of the Birmingham Girl’s Choir and the MLES Knightingales Choir.

“Whatever Branah starts, she is going to finish regardless of the obstacles that stand in her way,” Littrell said.

The final student recognized at the award ceremony was Alyssa Parker, a fifth grader at Chelsea Park Elementary. Parker participated in a student leadership conference at Chelsea Park this year and also serves as a Peer Pal and Chelsea Park Ranger.

“Alyssa never leaves a friend behind,” Littrell said. “If a friend is struggling to get their materials ready for class, she will stay and help them. She also willingly helps others who struggle in academic areas.”

All students received a plaque recognizing them for their Character in Action, and their parents received certificates as well.