FLEMING ISLAND– Thursday evening’s School Board meeting saw many students, staff and citizens receive recognition for their commendable achievements. 

Here are some highlights:

• Tynes Elementary School fifth grader Kei’Ani McQuown was recognized for her win of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ annual Black History Month Essay Contest.

Students in fourth through 12th grade submitted essays focused on the contributions of African Americans to Florida’s History, with the winners being recognized by Gov. DeSantis and the Florida Department of Education.

McQuown also received a two-year Florida PrePaid College Scholarship. 

• Three students were recognized by the Clay County Education-Retired for winning their Black History Month Essay Contest. The contest is a continuation of the organization's year-long literacy program.

Orange Park Elementary student Maya Westfall received first place, Clay Hill Elementary student Lacey Swearingen earned second place and Orange Park Elementary student Michael Bellicourt received third place. 

The student’s received $100, $50 and $25 along with a certificate. 

• The following high school students were awarded for being National Merit Scholarship semifinalists, scoring in the top 1% of their state on the PSAT/NMSQT: Tristan Duke of Keystone Heights High School, Ezra Garrison of Fleming Island High School, Ramon Morales of Ridgeview High School, Nyhla Jones of Oakleaf High School and Noe Navarro of Oakleaf High School. 

• This year’s State Thespians were recognized for their hard work. The Florida State Thespian Festival is an annual event where young theater students from across the state showcase their theatrical skills. 

• The following students earned Superior ratings for their select performances, the highest they can receive: Lake Asbury Junior High School’s Jaeden Sims, Mackenna Mack, Kai Abrams, Ella Alcott, Mya Johns, Bella Schock, Brinley Victory and Lara Peyton. 

Fleming Island High School’s Ashlynn Amburgey, Ellison Shipe, Cash Belcher, Kerry Hunter, Payten Tison and Riley Rendelman.

Ridgeview High School’s Jillian McKinney, Lucy Bressley, Savannah Hudson and Monica Brice. 

• Volunteers of the Year were also recognized. Keystone Heights High School’s Michael Golden received Student Volunteer of the Year, Ridgeview Elementary School’s Ada Podolski received Senior Volunteer of the Year and Middleburg Elementary School’s Heather Smith took home the title of Adult Volunteer of the Year.