Select seniors receive awards, scholarships, and special recognition on Tuesday, May 22 in the CPAC. In all, 85 students were honored; the number of students to earn National Merit recognition was among the highest in school history.
Each accolade recognized individual efforts: each department gave out two awards for accomplishments in specialized fields; the Lions, Rotary, and Kiwanis clubs of the Lamorinda area announced scholarships; and awards for National Merit and CSF membership were presented. “We had 10 National Merit Finalists and we had 37 National Merit commended students, so 47 in total,” explained College & Career Counseling Center coordinator Gwenly Carrel. “That’s a pretty high number,” she said.
According to English teacher Tina Mayer, “Each department gives out two awards.” Mayer said, “Something special about the English department is that we also give out books along with either the plaque or certificate.” Seniors Colton Jang and Emily Leach received the two English department awards. Said Leach, “I was so honored. I’m so thankful to all of my English teachers for everything I’ve learned.”
Principal Carol Kitchens and Carrel presented all of the CSF and National Merit awards, of which there were many. Carrel was also in charge of organizing the program, sending out invitations and serving as MC for the evening. Carrel added, “I just love seeing all of [the seniors] being honored, and hearing what the teachers have to say about all of these amazing students.”