Sanford Middle School (SMS) recently recognized their October Honor Flag recipients, five extraordinary members of their community who have demonstrated what it means to be a Spartan a little extra this month.
The SMS Spartan Honor Flag celebrates individuals who demonstrate good character, kindness, leadership, service, school pride, and a willingness to go above and beyond, according to Assistant Principal Lindsay Pendleton, who created the program.
Each month, SMS administrators select one student from each grade and one staff member to recognize. Recipients are called down to the office to receive a certificate, learn who nominated them, and raise the Honor Flag for a commemorative photo. Nominations are made through a Google Form, which is sent out to SMS staff monthly, and available to the broader community to nominate SMS students, groups, or staff members. Soon, SMS will also raise a banner in the school’s main hallway to recognize Honor Flag recipients throughout the year.
This October, four students and one teacher were recognized for demonstrations of exemplary character as part of the SMS community.
Ivy Peters was recognized for her kindness, leadership, and commitment to including and encouraging others. A hardworking leader, Ivy goes above and beyond to help others feel welcome, and consistently looks for ways to support and uplift those around her.
Riley Garza was recognized for her helpfulness and initiative, always looking for ways to help without being asked. From helping keep classrooms clean to assisting teachers and classmates, Riley steps up whenever she sees something that needs to be done.
Ridleigh Guertin was recognized for being a positive role model and natural leader who consistently demonstrates Spartan Pride. Ridleigh shows up each day ready to learn, follows directions, and consistently demonstrates responsibility and dedication.
Kenny Santos was recognized for treating fellow students and staff with kindness and respect. Most recently, he demonstrated outstanding character by welcoming a new student with genuine friendship when she needed it most - a small act of kindness that made a big difference.
Tatiana Murphy, a Special Education teacher at SMS, was recognized for going above and beyond to ensure her students feel supported, included, and able to participate in every opportunity. Her dedication and care makes a meaningful difference for her students and their families.
While each Honor Flag ceremony is incredibly meaningful, this month’s recognition of Tatiana held special significance because she was nominated by a parent. This parent wanted to ensure Tatiana was honored for devoting her time to accompanying her seventh-grade students on their overnight trip to The Ecology School. Her presence gave her students the comfort and support needed to attend something they most likely wouldn't have without her.
The ceremony also held special meaning for a student recipient, who excitedly shared he had never had a chance to raise a flag before. His enthusiasm demonstrated the importance of the Honor Flag for these Spartans - an experience which many of these young recipients likely haven’t had before.
Through their leadership and care for others, these five Spartans have helped make Sanford Middle School a place where everyone can feel valued. Congratulations to Ivy, Riley, Ridleigh, Kenny and Tatiana, and thank you for helping make SMS a kinder, stronger, more welcoming community! Go Spartans!