Union Springs High School celebrated its annual Academic Awards last night, Wednesday, May 29th, in a memorable event that highlighted the achievements and dedication of its students. The evening was a testament to the hard work and perseverance of the students, with families and faculty coming together to honor their successes.

The ceremony began with a warm welcome from Principal Mr. Jason Dentel, who expressed his pride in the students' accomplishments and gratitude for the support from their families. He emphasized the importance of recognizing academic excellence and fostering a supportive community that encourages student growth.

Awards were presented by each academic department, celebrating outstanding achievements in English, Mathematics, Science, Spanish, Social Studies, and Art/Music. These awards recognized the exceptional talent and effort displayed by students in their respective fields.

Junior scholarships were a significant highlight of the evening. Mrs. Nina Darnell, the 11th and 12th grade counselor, announced the scholarship recipients, with an impressive total of nearly $2 million awarded to students. These scholarships will provide invaluable support for the students as they continue their educational journeys.

The ceremony continued with the presentation of the Presidential Excellence awards, which honored students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance and commitment. The Positivity Project awards were also presented, recognizing students who exemplify the values of positivity, teamwork, and character.

Honor roll recognitions were a proud moment for many, as students were acknowledged for their consistent academic achievements. Awards were given for the honor roll, high honor roll, and principal's honor roll, celebrating students who have maintained high grades throughout the year.

The night continued with the announcement of the highest average awards, which recognized the top-performing students in the school. The Valedictorian and Salutatorian of the Class of 2024 were honored for their exceptional academic records and leadership.

The evening culminated with the presentation of the Teacher of the Year award, honoring an educator who has made a significant impact on the students and the school community. This year, the award went to Mr. Brian Stone, who has shown extraordinary commitment, inspiration, and support to his students.

Principal Dentel closed the ceremony with heartfelt remarks, expressing his appreciation for the hard work of the students and the unwavering support from the families and staff. He emphasized the collective effort that goes into nurturing a thriving educational environment.

The USHS Academic Awards night was a resounding success, celebrating not just the academic achievements but also the spirit of community and excellence that defines the school. Congratulations to all the award recipients and a big thank you to everyone who made the evening special. Here’s to another year of outstanding accomplishments!