We were so proud of Elena. She received two awards. One for maintaining an A average in all of her classes all year long and another for who she is. The second award was called the "Top Dog" award. Each seventh grade teacher chooses a boy and a girl who they believe exemplifies exceptional character and leadership. This award is a great honor. Only about 25-30 students out of approximately 600 received this award.
What made this evening even more special is that one of Elena's really good friends, Casey, was the other recipient of this award from their teacher, Mrs. Loke
This is what Mrs. Loke said about them:
Casey: He is one of the most compassionate people I know. His concern and care for others, constant positive attitude and persistent work effort make him an outstanding role model for others. He is a friend to everyone, and I wish I had 100 more like him!
Elena: This student has a spirit which is infectious. Her enthusiasm for learning and friendly disposition light up any classroom. This year, she has set a wonderful example to students and teachers about persevering through any obstacle. She is a true testament to overcoming adversity with a smile, and her positivity touches everyone she meets. We can all learn a lot from Elena Tate.
Elena and Casey with Mrs. Loke
It was an amazing night. As parents we are so thankful that Elena goes to a school that not only values academics, but honors character as well. We teared up not only for Casey and Elena's honors, but for the special needs kids who were also recognized along side non-disabled students. It was wonderful!
We are so proud of Elena and Casey!! Casey has always been amazing to us.
Over the years, Elena has struggled on so many levels. One day last year, she was particularly upset about things and wanted to talk about it. After she was done filling us in on what was making her sad, she also told us about a bright spot in her day. She said that each day during one of the class changes she passes Casey and each day he puts his hand up for her to give him a high five. It makes her feel good. It makes her feel that someone cares about her.
Casey has made a difference in Elena's life. It is true that you never know what a smile or hello may mean to another person and that little things can really make a difference and have an impact. Elena said that she wished everyone treated her that way.
The pictures below show only part of the reason Casey is so deserving of the Top Dog award he received last night.
Casey and another great friend, Ethan, came to visit Elena when she was in the hospital.
They even did physical therapy with her!
Last Friday, Casey stopped by after school
to give Elena her birthday present.
to give Elena her birthday present.
He gave her a scrapbooking kit for her birthday. When he knew it was Elena's birthday, he asked his mom if he could get her a present. He knew she liked to scrapbook.
Before leaving, Casey agreed to test out the homemade
"photo booth" we had set up for
Elena's birthday party that night.
Elena's birthday party that night.
We definitely count Casey and Elena's teachers as blessings in our lives!
In Him,
The Tates
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."
Philippians 4:8
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