For the first time at OLHMS, Dr. Enderle and Dr. McNichols created and initiated an opportunity to recognize 8th grade students. The Select 123 Award is a distinguished honor for 23 8th grade students. These students are featured on our OLHMS Graduate Wall of Fame, they represent our 8th grade class of 2023, and they are leaders in our school and community. These students will be our inaugural class that will represent OLHMS at their respected high schools, in the community, and leave a legacy upon our exemplary school and district.
On May 31st, our Select 123 students were honored with a Breakfast Ceremony sponsored by our D123 Ed Foundation. At the Select 123 Breakfast Ceremony, Dr. McNichols welcomed and thanked every parent and student for their support, dedication, and hard work. When Dr. McNichols spoke about the Select 123 students, he stated eloquently how “These students demonstrate a pursuit of knowledge and unwavering commitment to utilize key levers such as empathy, perseverance, adaptability, and service, [which will] prepare them for tomorrow’s world… These 23 extraordinary students here are our future. They will continue valuing and serving our school community, and continue to model all the wonderful qualities we hope to see in each one of the students that grace everyone in the halls of District 123.” After Dr. McNichols’s address, Dr. Enderle and Mrs. Georgelos spoke to our parents and students and emphasized additional vital statements.
The common theme in both Dr. Enderle and Mrs. Georgelos’s speeches were how “incredibly special” this group of 23 students truly is. As Mrs. Georgelos stated, “We spend 171 days together and after tomorrow, you will all take your separate paths. I just want you to remember that you are all special, and you are always invited to come back to us. This is a great place, and we had great times together. You will always have a place in our hearts, and this will always be your home.” After tears of sadness and joy were shed, the 23 students who earned the Select 123 Award were recognized and honored for their success. It was a memorable moment because our students' parents and loved ones shared this unforgettable moment. When Zofia was asked how she felt about being honored for the Select 123 award, she stated "I was very enthusiastic and happy to be selected! It feels amazing to be recognized for everything that I've done at school and in my community, and it's a privilege to represent my school and the OLHMS class of 2023. This will be a day I will never forget."
Thank you to this prestigious group of 8th grade students for their hard work and dedication throughout this school year!
