The Savannah Morning News (SMN) has recently reintroduced its Student of the Week poll, shining a spotlight on high school students nominated by local public and private school leaders. These exceptional students not only excel academically but also actively engage with their school and neighborhood communities. Let’s take a closer look at the first round of student nominees for the 2024-2025 school year and learn more about their achievements.
First up, we have Elijoe Correa Sanchez, a senior at New Hampstead High School. Described by Principal Tawn Foltz as someone who embodies the spirit of a Phoenix, Sanchez is known for his dedication and willingness to help others. In addition to excelling in his classes, Sanchez is a member of the JROTC, where he has served as a commander and now advises the new commander. He is also involved in the drill team and Raider team, accumulating over 91 hours of community service. Foltz praises Sanchez as a role model for the SCCPSS community and New Hampstead High School.
Next, we have Joana Da Silva Carvalho, a senior at Herschel V. Jenkins High School. Da Silva Carvalho is a top-ranked student in the Class of 2025 and participates in both Advanced Placement (AP) and Dual Enrollment courses at Georgia Southern University. She has been recognized as an AP Scholar for scoring four or higher on three of her four AP exams. Principal Justin Durham commends Da Silva Carvalho for her leadership in the Jenkins Model United Nations team and the Student Ambassadors program, where she promotes civic engagement and organizes voter registration drives for eligible students.
Lastly, we have Laney Grace Westbrook, a senior at Savannah Christian Preparatory School (SCPS). Westbrook is known for her kind spirit and dedication to helping others. She has excelled academically, earning a spot on the High Honor Roll while taking AP and Dual Enrollment classes. Westbrook is actively involved in various clubs and sports teams at SCPS, including the Service Club, National Honor Society, and Spanish Honor Society. She has also demonstrated exceptional leadership as the chaplain of the volleyball team and as a recipient of the Abbie DeLoach Foundation Scholarship. In her free time, Westbrook volunteers for various organizations and has been recognized with awards for her character and service.
These outstanding students represent the best of their schools and communities, and it is up to the readers to vote for the Savannah Morning News Student of the Week. The nominee with the most votes will be announced online each Friday and featured in print on Sundays. High school principals, leaders, counselors, administrators, and teachers are encouraged to nominate students for future polls by contacting [email protected]. Let’s continue to celebrate and recognize the achievements of these remarkable students in our community.
