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The Lowndes County Career Technical Center recognizes students each month, awarding a few of the many demonstrating the hard work and dedication needed to lay the foundation for their future careers.

Nominated by their instructors, 13 LCCTC scholars were celebrated recently as LCCTC April Students of the Month.

Junior Officer Training Corps (JROTC) Cadet Shawquarius McGhee was nominated for recognition by his instructor, MSGT Bruce Reeves. Described as a rising leader, McGhee joined the U.S. Marine Corps on Nov. 25, 2024, and received the honor of being named as Student of the Month for a leadership style that demonstrates character, team-work and selfless service qualities while excelling in the classroom with an exceptional grade point average (GPA) average. 

Zy’Riah White received the honor for showing significant progress in the JAG (Jobs for America’s Graduates) classroom. 

“She is constantly working to better herself and show her growth,” said JAG instructor Chantrice Morrison. “I am very proud of the student she has become. She shows great initiative and always has great ideas for helping others.”

Calvin McCall is excelling in his dual-enrollment welding class. He was nominated by his instructor, Jarod Pope, and modern manufacturing instructor Dan Davis who said McCall is willing to learn all he can about welding and has made significant progress in class [while displaying] leadership skills. 

Showing what agriscience instructor Kelsey Thomas describes as significant academic progress, Ernasia Mathews was recommended for Student of the Month by Thomas because goes out of her way to assist others and displays leadership by helping her peers at every opportunity.

Hezekiah Manora has shown great leadership, a strong desire to learn, and hard work this month. Bridget Davis, his business instructor, explained that Manora passed both his Microsoft Word and Microsoft Powerpoint 2019 certifications, proving his dedication to learning new skills. 

“He is always respectful and helpful to his teachers and classmates,” Bridget Davis said in the nomination. “He is quick to offer assistance when someone needs help, and his positive attitude makes him a great member of the class. Hezekiah sets a wonderful example for others with his respect and teamwork.”

Jakayden Seawright was recognized for the way he has been eagerly assisting students in preparing for their IT Fundamentals Certification exam. 

“He is always one of the first students to volunteer to complete labs on the smartboard,” said computer science instructor Kaneka Threatt, who nominated Seawright for the April Student of the Month award. “He displays patience and compassion, helping assist other students in the classroom.”

Nominated for a display of outstanding initiative is Keison Bennett, a modern manufacturing student. Bennet was nominated for Student of the Month by instructor, Dan Davis.

Welding student Camille Gordon is in the last semester of her dual enrollment welding class, and she is set to graduate from Wallace Community College with her short-term certificate in welding. 

“She has maintained a great GPA and she is always ready to accept any task you give her,” said Pope, who recommended Gordon for the award.

Thomas also nominated Edilberto McGirt, who he said has taken on a leadership role in helping prepare his classmates for the State Livestock Judging contest. 

“Not only has he challenged himself, but he has inspired his peers to elevate their skills through collaboration and support,” Thomas said.

Reeves recommended JROTC Cadet Jaliyah Jackson for Student of the Month, because Jackson has demonstrated above-average leadership skills that her peers can emulate. Her dedication to the JROTC program is very noticeable, Reeves said, and shows true commitment. 

Jaida Davis has also demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication. Nominated for recognition by Threat, David consistently displays strong problem-solving skills and commitment to learning and mentoring classmates in robotics and coding. 

Bridget Davis nominated Kelmaree Spagner for Student of the Month. “[Spagner’s] well-mannered nature sets him apart,” she explained. “Whether interacting with peers or teachers, he shows respect, kindness, and a willingness to help others. His thoughtful approach to communication and his polite demeanor make him a role model for others. “One of Kelmaree’s standout qualities is his attention to detail. No matter the task, he takes the time to thoroughly examine all aspects of his work, ensuring quality results. His commitment to excellence not only improves his learning but also motivates those around him to work with the same care.”

Another cadet, Tiya Smith was selected Student of the Month because of her leadership skills and her “can-do” attitude. 

“She is always taking her personal time to help out junior cadets when needed,” said her JROTC instructor, SGM Lenora White. “She always strives for excellence when it comes to her academics. Tiya is always stepping up and taking charge, and she is definitely trustworthy, and she always has a positive mental attitude, with a smile on her face.”