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The Lowndes County Children’s Policy Council announced Thursday that a local kindergartener had earned the January Character In Action (CIA) award.

Kariyah Brown, a kindergarten student at Central Elementary School, was named as the January CIA award for demonstrating outstanding character among her peers. Nominated by her teacher, Kimberely Stewart, Brown is described as someone who consistently demonstrates leadership qualities.

“I [have] had the opportunity to witness her outstanding character in a classroom setting,” Stewart said in the nomination letter. “She demonstrates responsibility and excellent leadership qualities inside and outside of the classroom.”

According to Lowndes County District Judge Adrian Johnson, who chairs the council, the award began as an effort to acknowledge everyday positive behaviors. As part of the emphasis, local schools nominate one student each month, and from among the nominee’s, one outstanding young person is selected for recognition with the aim of conveying the opportunities that result from good character.

Stewart said Brown regularly notices when other students are struggling and offers to help

“She also has exceptional qualities such as sharing with others, following the classroom rules, and closely helping others who do not understand the lessons get a better understanding of the lesson,” Stewart said.

In spite of her youth, Brown is also a helper at home.

“Her grandmother expresses that she is very helpful around the house and she sets a great example for her peers and her community,” Stewart said.

The council rewards CIA winners with a certificate, a program t-shirt and a $100 Walmart gift card, Johnson said. Neither good grades nor athletic performance are considered when selecting the recipient, but instead the winner is chosen as someone simply displaying good character in the classroom and in the community.