By MICHELLE ADAMS/Community columnist

City leaders of Montevallo now take time at each council meeting to honor local students and school staff members for their outstanding achievements in education. In a concerted effort between school administration and Mayor Hollie Cost, the student awards program began at October’s city council meeting.

“Consistent recognition of both our students and staff has revived the pride we have in our schools and our community,” Montevallo Elementary School Principal Dr. Allison Campbell said. “Montevallo is a great community with excellent schools, and we need to make sure everyone knows. I am so blessed to be associated with such amazing people. The MES staff sincerely cares for one another and, most importantly, puts students first.”

Students are recognized for academic excellence, model leadership skills and exceptional character.

“It was a special honor to be recognized,” Montevallo High School freshman Aania Cox said. “To be included in a city council meeting as a ninth grader made me feel as though I have an important role in Montevallo.”

Since students and staff from all three Montevallo schools are recognized regularly, city council meetings are filling beyond capacity. Parents, grandparents and other relatives and friends attend the meetings to observe the honoring of their student or staff member. This increase in attendance has a two-fold effect, since these same relatives are citizens of Montevallo, and their presence at city council meetings helps them to become more informed of city business and may prompt them to become more involved in their community and decisions affecting their community. Clearly evident is how the important connection and support between the Montevallo schools, city government and its citizens affect the success of its students.

“This program not only creates a stronger connection between the schools and the city of Montevallo, but it also builds pride and synergy throughout the entire community,” Montevallo High School Principal Dr. Wesley Hester said. “This is something in which every member of the Montevallo schools and community can have tremendous pride.”