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The Shelby County Chamber
Yesi Villanueva
Yesi Villanueva of Chelsea High School was named one of two “Academic Pathway Standout” Students of the Year by the Shelby County Chamber.
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Photo courtesy of the Shelby County Chamber
Matthew Bray
“Academic Pathway Standout” Student of the Year Recipient Matthew Bray of Oak Mountain High School) is presented with a check for $1,000 by the Shelby County Chamber.
Tthe Shelby County Chamber held the 7th Annual Student & Educator of the Year program on June 10 at the Chamber’s Community Room in Pelham.
They hosted the 8 award recipients (3 educators, 5 students) along with families, school administration and program sponsors in 15 minute slots.
A week before, on June 3, all of the nominees were recognized at their homes and presented with yard signs presented by Chamber representatives.
“We believe that recognizing the excellence that is demonstrated by students and educators throughout Shelby County each and every day is a worthy pursuit,” Chamber President & CEO Kirk Mancer commented. “Coupled with the challenges presented to all of our students and educators during the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s program is extra special."
Schools throughout Shelby County were invited to submit both an “academic leader standout” and “career pathway standout” Student of the Year to represent their school. All of the nominees were evaluated on the following criteria: GPA, extra-curricular activities and awards, a written response (essay) on their proposed career track/course of study and letters of recommendation. Each student was asked to participate in a 20-minute Zoom interview with a panel of three judges.
The Educator of the Year candidates were nominated in three categories – elementary, middle and high school -- by their school principals. Three judges evaluated them on their philosophy of teaching, community involvement and recommendations from colleagues and school administrators, including a brief video where many showcased their exceptional classrooms.
The five student recipients each received a $1,000 cash award, and the three educator recipients received a $750 cash award.
“They will receive these funds to continue their education and career development, and the three teachers will receive their awards for use in their classrooms at their discretion,” said Pari Barzegari, Director of Community & Career Development for the chamber.
“Career Pathway Standout” Student of the Year Recipients:
- Caleb Reed Horton (Shelby County High School) and Kelsey Mooney (Helena High School.
Also nominated: Zachary Adams (Chelsea High School); Heather Houston (Briarwood Christian School) and Lyle Jensen (Oak Mountain High School)
“Academic Pathway Standout” Student of the Year Recipients:
- Matthew Bray (Oak Mountain High School) and Yesenia “Yesi” Villanueva (Chelsea High School)
Also nominated: Grace Owens (Briarwood Christian School)
“Future Leader” Student of the Year Recipient
- Abby Grace Walker (Thompson High School)
Elementary School Educator of the Year Recipient:
- Martha Bentley (Elvin Hill Elementary School)
Also nominated: Lauren Brady Akin (Forest Oaks Elementary School); John Kyle Henderson (Oak Mountain Intermediate School); Kristen Sanders (Inverness Elementary School); Austin Self (Chelsea Park Elementary); Jennifer Slovensky (Oak Mountain Elementary School) and Caroline Trewhella (Mt. Laurel Elementary School)
Middle School Educator Recipient
- Janet Griffith (Thompson Middle School)
Also nominated: Heath Butler (Chelsea Middle School) and Gaye McKinnon (Oak Mountain Middle School)
High School Educator Recipient
- Geoffrey Wymer (New Direction)
Also nominated: Shannon Acton (Chelsea High School) and Lauren Ingram (Oak Mountain High School)
