By NEAL WAGNER / Managing Editor

ALABASTER – Students from each Alabaster school earned the spotlight on Oct. 12, as they were recognized for their outstanding character during a Shelby County Children’s Policy Council meeting.

Each month, Shelby County Juvenile Court and the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office recognize local students for their strong character through partnerships with the Shelby County, Alabaster and Pelham school systems.

Character in Action awards are presented to students based on several criteria: Respect, self-discipline, responsibility, citizenship, friendship, fairness, perseverance and courage. The students are chosen for the awards based on nominations from their teachers and administrators.

“Alabaster City Schools is so proud of these students,” said Alabaster City Schools Student Services Coordinator Doran Tanner. “The Character in Action Award is one of my favorite days of the school year because it is an honor to recognize our students who are working every day to make our world a better place to live in. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for these special students.”

The following is a list of students who earned Character in Action awards on Oct. 13, along with comments from the teacher or administrator who nominated them:

Creek View Elementary School:

Lauren Blackmon – Daughter of Crystal and Clinton Blackmon

Lauren was honored for her kind, courteous and trustworthy behavior. “Lauren is the type of student who will support a friend, especially during a difficult situation,” her teacher wrote.

Meadow View Elementary School:

Stephany Rivera Montalvan – Daughter of Ana Montalvan and Raul Rivera

She was honored for her bold willingness to embrace challenges. “Stephany has a diverse group of friends representing her inclusiveness and her big heart,” read her nomination form.

Thompson Intermediate School:

Luke Reid – Son of Amanda and Andy Reed

Luke was honored for his exceptional behavior, manners and his initiative. “Luke is well liked and works hard to make all his peer feel included. He is a natural leader and leads by example,” read his nomination.

Thompson Sixth Grade Center:

Christopher Gallimore – Son of Nikasha Thomas and Chris Gallimore

Christopher was honored for his respectful behavior and his commitment to learning. “He is relentless in achieving success and has an amazing work ethic,” read his nomination.

Thompson Middle School:

Owen Yoder – Son of Troya Yoder

Owen is a Warrior Center mentor. “He is a friend to all, treats others equally and is mindful to ensure no one is left out. He frequently is asked to coordinate special projects around the school and has started his own successful lawn care business,” read his nomination.

Thompson High School:

Andrew Zow Jr. – Son of Andrew and Amebriss Zow

Andrew is a peer helper. “He is kind, soft-spoken and gentle in spirit. He is a friend to all and works hard to support all students. He is constantly looking for ways to make his school a positive place for all students and is truly making a difference in the lives of his peers,” read his nomination.