Forest Ridge Elementary’s 5th Grade Celebration: A Day of Honors and Future Aspirations

Today was a day of excitement and recognition at Forest Ridge Elementary (FRE) as the 5th-grade students celebrated their accomplishments and looked forward to their futures. Assistant Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert and I had the pleasure of participating in this memorable event, which was masterfully hosted by FRE School Counselor Trishia Mikel.

The celebration was filled with numerous student recognitions that highlighted the diverse talents and hard work of the 5th graders. Mrs. Mosley honored those students who participated in the music performances. The Morning Show, organized by Mrs. Schantz and Mrs. Cornelius, showcased the students’ creativity and enthusiasm, while Mr. Mattingly’s School Store recognized young entrepreneurs in the making.

Mrs. Learn celebrated the students who excelled in Safety Patrol and the Science Fair, emphasizing the importance of responsibility and scientific inquiry. Ms. Mikel highlighted the achievements of the students involved in 4H Public Speeches and the Rotary Upward Bound program, encouraging them to continue developing their leadership and public speaking skills.

A special highlight of the celebration was the guest speaker, Michael Miller, a former FRE Owl and Class President of Crystal River High School’s Class of 2024. Michael’s inspirational speech resonated with the young students, reminding them of the bright futures that lie ahead.

Several prestigious awards were presented during the event. Ms. Jones, Assistant Principal, awarded the Good Citizenship Award, recognizing students who demonstrated outstanding character and community spirit. Ms. Mikel presented the National Society Sons of the American Revolution Award, honoring students who have shown exceptional dedication to their studies and their country. The VFW Award, presented by Mrs. Schantz and VFW Post 10087, celebrated students who have exhibited remarkable patriotism and service.

Mrs. Bone, the Reading Coach, awarded the President’s Education Award, acknowledging students who have achieved academic excellence.

One of the most exciting moments of the day was the presentation of the STEPS to CF scholarships, which I had the great honor of awarding on behalf of the College of Central Florida Foundation. Each year, a school committee selects students who excel academically and show great promise to receive this prestigious scholarship. Once these students graduate high school, they will have $4,000 waiting for them to use for any program of study at the College of Central Florida. This year, the STEPS to CF scholarships were awarded in honor of Tom C. Franklin Memorial and the Ted Williams Museum & Hitters Hall of Fame. The deserving recipients of the scholarships were Zalyn Malpica and Brody Mushlit.

Dr. Scott Hebert gave the special closing remarks, engaging the 5th-grade students, their families, and the staff with words of encouragement and celebration. His speech was a fitting conclusion to a day that honored the achievements and potential of these young students.

The event concluded with the FRE SUCCESS CHEER, led by FRE 5th graders Sophia Lindo, Xavier Padron, and Anelisa Wegner. The cheer was energetically echoed by all the 5th graders present, filling the room with a sense of unity and excitement for the future.

Today’s celebration at Forest Ridge Elementary was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the students, staff, and families. It was a day filled with pride, inspiration, and hope for what the future holds for these remarkable young individuals.

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