During the months of October and November, students throughout the division were honored for academic excellence. Students who finished the 2017-2018 school year with All As for their final grades were recognized with an academic medal during special evening ceremonies. Over 500 4th through 12th graders earned a medal for their exceptional achievement. In addition, seniors who maintained a 3.75 Grade Point Average though their Junior year received an Academic Jacket. The personalized Varsity Letterman jacket is presented to the student by their parents, who actually get to place the jacket on their child. This is usually followed by several hugs and lots of pictures.
This was the fourth year of the medal and jacket ceremonies for Isle of Wight County Schools. It was a tradition I started in my previous divisions and I wanted to make sure the students in Isle of Wight County had this same opportunity. With the assistance of a great sponsor, SSC, I am pleased that IWCS was able to present an academic jacket to over 120 extraordinary seniors.
The history of
wearing a varsity jacket originated over 100 years ago. This time honored
tradition is an outward symbol of hard work, determination and perseverance.
Often the letter, pins and stars recognize athleticism and great accomplishments
in a sport. The Superintendent’s Academic Jacket honors our
students who have demonstrated great achievement in the classroom.
Honoring accomplishments
in academics lets students know that we appreciate the many hours of studying,
note taking, reading, writing papers, listening to lectures, working in groups,
and staying up after everyone is asleep to finish a project. The jacket not only honors the students, but also their parents and loved ones, as well as the educators,
that have supported them throughout their academic journey.
Here is a video of the jacket ceremonies from Windsor High and Smithfield High. It is a special moment for the students and their families and one that is well deserved.
