Youth Assistance Recognition Night honors Avondale students

Avondale Youth Assistance (AYA) celebrated the efforts and achievements of students across Avondale School District at the 48th Annual Youth Recognition Awards Ceremony. Teachers, counselors, coaches and community leaders nominated students to be recognized at the event in two categories - community service and personal achievement.

Students receiving Community Service awards during the evening performed community volunteerism including after-school tutoring, helping in a nursing home, hospital or church, and organizing community projects. Personal Achievement awards went to students who have demonstrated a dramatic positive change in attitude or behavior; have overcome a significant obstacle; or have made a strong positive academic turnaround.

Local elected officials including state representatives, congressmen, county commissioners, mayors, City Council and Avondale Board of Education members joined Avondale Superintendent Dr. James Schwarz in commending and celebrating the accomplishments of the students.

Students and guests heard from the Honorable Lisa Gorcyca, Oakland County Circuit Court Family Division Judge who spoke about the importance of the students making good choices and continuing the good deeds that had earned them recognition that night.

The Auburn Hills Morning Optimist Club, who helped sponsor the evening, awarded a special recognition to Avondale Middle School student, Amarae’ Robinson for her work helping cancer patients. The eighth-grader has been knitting hats and scarves to be donated as part of a care package for people undergoing cancer treatments. Optimist Club members selected Robinson’s nomination by her teacher Scott Thornbro because they felt that her efforts embodied the service emphasis of Optimist Clubs around the world.

As part of the celebration, the Avondale High School Diversity Club performed inspirational songs and the native Philippine dance, tinikling. The highlight of the club’s appearance was an original song by Club member and high school junior, Noah Harrison.

AYA Chairman Michael Kazyak was thrilled with the number of students being celebrated. “This year we got very close to recognizing 100 students. My goal is to double that number every year. So many students are doing amazing things to improve their lives and the lives of those around them. It’s important to let them know that their efforts are recognized and valued.”

To nominate an Avondale student for this recognition, visit www.avondale.k12.mi.us and click on Avondale Youth Assistance.

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