Students attending Salt River Schools were recognized for their commitment to academics during a special banquet and awards presentation at the Round House Café on June 13. Students at the Accelerated Learning Academy from kindergarten to grade 12 received honors from their teachers for perfect attendance and/or maintaining a grade point average of 3.0 for the entire school year. 

“It is amazing to see so many people at this event. It has been years since we have actually hosted this event, but it is truly remarkable,” said Miranda Johnson-Moya, manager of the School & Community Relations Program at Salt River Schools. 

Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community Council Representative Wi-bwa Grey joined Johnson-Moya to recognize the students’ success. 

“It is a pleasure to see each and every one of you for a good reason. There is so much good spirit within you, from the little ones to the high school students, [and] I know you will all succeed past this moment,” said Grey. 

Grey called for a round of applause for the students, saying that it is important for the Community to celebrate their academic achievements and hard work. Grey said, “Thank you for pushing [yourselves] to wake up every morning [determined to succeed in school], and thanks to [your families who] support you, because without [your own hard work and] without your parents, your aunties, your uncles or your grandmothers, you wouldn’t be celebrating yourselves and your achievements today.”

Grey then led a prayer over the program and students, asking that they continue to lead and provide good examples for their peers and siblings who will follow in their footsteps. She also called for special blessings over the staff and educators who dedicate countless hours toward their commitment to educating the Community’s youth. 

After that, ALA staff members read the names of the students and presented the awards. Then everyone enjoyed dinner and time to reflect on the students’ achievements.