At the culmination of the academic year, a special ceremony is held to honor the top outstanding eighth-grade students from across the Laredo area. Among the 23 students celebrated recently, Angel Pruneda from United ISD’s Salvador Garcia Middle School earned top honors, receiving first place and the coveted title of “8th Grader of the Year.” Fernando Flores of Trautmann Middle School received third place recognition.
Salvador Garcia MS Principal Dr. Jonathan Martinez said it was an exciting moment for his school.
“I am very proud of Angel. He has been one of the most dedicated students we’ve ever had here at Salvador Garcia Middle School,” said Dr. Martinez. “Angel’s academic excellence, positive attitude, leadership skills, kindness, and involvement in extracurriculars have truly set him apart.”
“All our students, who were selected to be 8th Grader of the Month, had to submit an essay about their favorite book or movie and how it impacted their lives. Angel’s essay was chosen from all those students to represent SGMS at the Outstanding 8th Grader of the Year Ceremony.”
Out of all the middle schools in the city that participated from public, private, and charter schools, Angel’s essay received first place, making him the overall outstanding 8th Grader of the Year!
"I told Angel that he made history for our school. This was a well-deserved recognition for an outstanding student," said the proud principal.
Trautmann Middle School Principal Gilberto Moreno said success is built on a strong academic foundation, and the teachers at Trautmann Middle work diligently to cultivate this in their students.
“Fernando Flores stands as a shining example of the collaborative efforts between students and educators. His unwavering commitment to his studies has led him to this well-earned achievement. Trautmann Middle School would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Fernando’s parents for their continuous support and guidance, which have been instrumental in his success. He has brought honor to TMS, and we proudly celebrate his outstanding accomplishments."
The “8th Grader of the Month” program celebrates the academic achievements, leadership, and exemplary behavior of students selected throughout the school year. One student from each participating school is recognized monthly during ceremonies attended by family members, educators, and community leaders. Notably, UISD Superintendent Dr. Gerardo Cruz delivered a motivational address at one such ceremony held in February at Ricardo Molina Middle School.
The program is a collaborative initiative by KGNS-TV, the Laredo Police Department, and other local sponsors. It aims to spotlight student success and promote the importance of education in the Laredo community.
During the year-end ceremony, all the school sponsors expressed pride in their students’ accomplishments. UISD congratulates all the honorees for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence.
(Winners of the 8th Grader of the Year award.)
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