Congratulations to Anna Katherine Ray, Carter Elliott, and Miles Johnson, who have been named STAR students for the 2019-2020 school year by the Mississippi Economic Council M.B. Swayze Foundation, sponsor of the Student Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) program. This is a prestigious recognition, and a reflection of the focus and passion that each of the selected students has demonstrated in their academic pursuits.
Each STAR student selects a STAR teacher, recognizing an instructor who has made an indelible contribution to their academic achievements. Anna Katherine chose retired JA Latin teacher Judy McKeigney, saying “Mrs. McKeigney has always been a role model for me because of the kindness and love she showed to everyone, and especially to me.” Carter selected chemistry teacher Richard West. “I chose Coach West to be my STAR teacher because he has an evident love for teaching chemistry,” said Carter, “and he has helped me both as a student and a person.” For Miles Johnson, Sarah Shaw’s passion for science inspired him. “Mrs. Shaw has been such a wonderful teacher as well as a mentor to me, Miles said. “I’ve had her for three out of my four high school years, and her teaching really does make me want to learn more.” The relationships between students and faculty are one of JA’s cherished characteristics, and one of the notable aspects of the STAR program.
This year will mark the 55th Anniversary of the program. The purpose of the STAR recognition is to celebrate superb students and teachers. The award is granted to students based on academic achievement and excellence exhibited through ACT scores and scholastic averages.
This year’s celebration gathering has been postponed, but Carter, Miles, and Anna Katherine will be recognized among 330 other high school seniors in Mississippi for their academic achievements. The top 20 STAR students – the ALL-STAR Scholars – will receive scholarships, and their STAR teachers will receive awards as well.
