Valwood in the News

Maxwell Wins STAR Student Award

February 16, 2015

Senior Allie Maxwell and was recently named a PAGE (Professional Association of Georgia Educators) STAR Student for the region. This award honors “Georgia’s highest achieving high school seniors and the teachers who have been most instrumental in their academic development.”

“Being named STAR Student is truly an honor,” said Maxwell. “I have been so blessed with fantastic teachers and supportive and encouraging friends and family. I definitely wouldn’t be where I am without them.”

Mr. Peter Allen was chosen by Maxwell as her STAR (Student Teacher Achievement Recognition) Teacher.

“Coach Allen has been an incredible and influential teacher,” said Maxwell. “Throughout high school, he has encouraged and pushed me to be not only the best writer I can be, but also to find my “voice” – to follow my passions and learn to express my thoughts. I’m so thankful to have him as a teacher and role model.”

Coach Allen, who is no stranger to teaching awards and accolades, was humbled by the nomination.

“The opportunity to teach bright, talented kids is its own reward, so most successful teachers need no validation. But, being recognized as an influential presence in the lives of your students is always humbling and always an honor,” commented Allen.

To be considered for this prestigious award, the student must be in the top 10 percent or the Top 10 of their class based on grade point average. On Tuesday, Maxwell was presented the award by the Region Chairman and was joined by Mr. Allen, Valwood Headmaster Dr. Darren Pascavage, College Guidance Coordinator Michele Luedke, and her family.

Maxwell, who plans to major in exercise physiology and eventually become a pediatric occupational therapist, will now join Mr. Allen and the other region winners at a banquet in April in Atlanta, Georgia, where they will be recognized and the STAR Student and Teacher of the State will be announced.