Parkland PTSA honors students with 3.0 GPA
Karissa McDaniel, Parkland High School PTSA president, presents a student with a certificate during a special celebration on Saturay, Feb. 22.
It’s no secret that high school can be challenging. With pressure from parents, teachers, peers, and the added pressure of social media, one could argue that being a high school student in today’s climate is more challenging than ever, which is why last weekend the Parkland High School PTSA (Parent Teacher Student Association) held a special ceremony to honor those who are facing those challenges head-on.
When discussing the event, PTSA president Karisa McDaniel said they just wanted to do something to honor the students who are facing the challenges of high school with grace.
“All of our money and our hard work is dedicated to giving back to the children because maintaining a 3.0 GPA or higher is hard to do when you’re in high school. It’s not easy,” McDaniel said. “You have so many different programs going on. You have children that are working, kids that are doing afterschool curriculum, athletic programs, it’s tough to maintain that GPA and balance all that at one time. So again, kudos to you all.”
During the celebration held on Saturday, Feb. 22, students who are currently maintaining at least a 3.0 GPA (Grade Point Average) were presented with a certificate marking their accomplishments. Before receiving their certificates, Parkland alumni Deshaywn Middleton encouraged the students to keep up the good work.
Middleton, who is a graduate of Norfolk State University where he was a standout defensive lineman before taking his talents to the CFL (Canadian Football League), encouraged the students to believe in themselves. Middleton, who is the younger brother of NFL player Doug Middleton, also told the students to take advantage of everything Parkland has to offer.
“One thing I want you guys to do is believe in yourself. When you believe in yourself, it goes a long way and you can achieve anything you put your mind to,” Middleton continued. “I just want you guys to stay determined, have perseverance and to believe in yourself, because I believe in you.”
Following the keynote address, the students who were recognized for their achievements enjoyed food and music with their peers and family.
