Wasco Tribune - Serving the community since 1970

Students at the Freewill Baptist Christian Academy celebrated Friday as they received their awards in person.

Students from kindergarten through 12th grade were honored with a variety of awards, including a Bible Pin, Superintendent's Pin, and many others that recognized the efforts of the student this past year.

Valedictorian for the year was Parker Russell, who is also the son of Assistant Principal Toni Russell. It was a bittersweet moment when Russell introduced her son and told the attendees that it would be hard to not have Parker in class anymore, but it was a blessing and he was moving on to the next phase of his life.

Shandy Lauderdale and Abigail Long sang a duet.

Jamie Stewart | The Shafter Press

Thiago Sanchez gets a couple of awards including a Bible pin and for getting a certain amount of perfect test scores.

The preK to kindergarten students recognized were Millie Garcia, Artie Lauderdale, Ellie Lauderdale, Augustus Long. Mrs. Russell said that they were a joy to have in class.

Kindergarten to first graders recognized were Molly Plumley, Thiago Sanchez, Elijah Vandborg, William Carlberg and Lukas Garcia. The students worked hard throughout the year, according to the staff, as well as having a great time in extracurricular activities, such as a camping trip.

The Junior High students recognized were Ryan Vandborg and Elijah Blackwell. They were both mentioned by Russell as having great attitudes and were a big help with the younger students.

The High School students were Kishna Grant, Denis Vanderhelm and Parker Russell. Russell said he wanted to thank all of the staff for their hard work and dedication.