VIENNA — At Maries County R-I Elementary School, character matters just as much as academics and this month’s Superstar Awards celebrated students who have gone above and beyond in demonstrating exemplary self-control and integrity. According to elementary school counselor Alyssa Smith, the program recognizes students who consistently show respect, responsibility and kindness in the classroom and throughout the school.

Among the kindergarten students, Kylie MacCash and Addison Patton were recognized for their self-control, setting an early example of thoughtful behavior. First graders Zoey Helton, Gertrude Sallin, Dominic Summerford and Lexanne Thomas also earned recognition for their ability to stay focused and manage themselves in a positive way.

In the second grade, Redding Beltz and Matthew Campbell were awarded for self-control, while Reagan Brown and Hank Helton demonstrated outstanding integrity. Harley Hammond rounded out the group, impressing teachers with consistent self-discipline. Third graders Karson Miller and Ryklan Rice were similarly celebrated, with Miller recognized for self-control and Rice for integrity.

Fourth and fifth grade students also stood out. Liam Cohlmia, Raylan DeMent and Maebri Lanning earned Superstar Awards for self-control, while Emeri Hamm-Harvey, Trenton Schaben and George Schulte were recognized for their integrity. The fifth grade awardees: Charles Ellis, Dakota Hammond, Noah Hart, Ivory Helton and Dalton Ohlendorf demonstrated exceptional self-control, serving as role models for the younger students.

The Maries R-I Elementary Superstar Awards program continues to highlight the importance of integrity, self-control and positive actions, helping to cultivate a school community where students are encouraged to grow not just academically, but personally as well.