Photos by Rome City Schools
On Monday, December 3, the Noon Optimist Club of Rome recognized their nominees for the Middle School Student of the Semester by hosting a luncheon in the students’ honor at State Mutual Stadium in the Three Rivers Club.
Carson Floyd, an 8th grade student at Rome Middle School, was recognized as The Noon Optimist’s Club Student of the Semester from Rome City Schools, and what an honor it was.
“I am so excited to be here today,” beamed Floyd. “I couldn’t believe that I was chosen to represent RMS as Student of the Semester. This is such an honor.”
Carson was accompanied to the luncheon by his parents, Mark and Susan Floyd and Ayanna Clarke-Daniel, Rome Middle School 8th grade Counselor.
Along with the recognition of Students of the Semester, the Optimist Club was also celebrating their 70th anniversary, making the celebration of these students even sweeter.
Priscilla Watkins, Optimist Student of the Months Program Co-Chair, explained the guidelines for the selection of the Noon Optimists Club Student of the Semester winners.
“We have the student’s teachers nominate them for this prestigious award, as they know who is most deserving and will radiate optimism all of the time,” said Watkins.
The guidelines for selecting Student of the Semester are as follows:
-Has a “B” or better average
-Demonstrates exemplary attendance and participation in school activities
-Is a well-rounded, role model who fits, lives and exemplifies the Optimist Creed
Other factors that contribute to the selection are students who have overcome significant hardships or odds, the “unsung hero” of their class and more.
“I always leave the luncheon feeling inspired, knowing that the world will be in great hands as these students grow older,” smiled Watkins.
Ayanna Clarke-Daniel, Rome Middle School 8th grade Counselor, introduced Carson to the crowd, reading excerpts from the teachers whom nominated Floyd for this award.
“His teachers describe him as having such a drive to do better and to want to learn. He is your average 13-year-old who loves to read and practice on his drum set. Outside of school, Carson is also involved in chorus, band and Grand Illusion,” read Clarke-Daniel.
Carson then took the podium and presented his own speech, breaking the ice and filling the room with laughter as he expressed his want to reach level 100 in Fortnight (a popular online video game).
“I don’t know what all lies ahead for me, but I do know that I will graduate from Rome High School ready for college or work. Currently, my plans are to go to Jacksonville State University and march with the JSU Southerners,” explained Floyd.
Floyd also talked about a tough obstacle that he had to overcome these past several years, which has helped him to become a better student because of it.
“We are so proud of Carson for this amazing achievement,” said Clarke-Daniel. “It is always such an honor, and we can’t thank the Optimist Club enough.”
Congratulations to Carson for this outstanding achievement. Go Wolves!
