By Haley Mitchell Godwin

Crenshaw County Interim Superintendent Gregory Faught has launched a new “Student of the Month” initiative to honor learners for their character and competence in school. The first awardees were celebrated during the Crenshaw County Board of Education’s Sept. 16 regular meeting.

The honorees include Gavin Witherington from Brantley School, David Sampley from Highland Home School, and Marcus Jones from Luverne School. Each was recognized for exemplary character and contributions both inside and outside the classroom.

The program aims to recognize students who demonstrate positive behavior, hard work and good attendance, placing an emphasis on integrity and effort rather than superficial attributes.

“I want good kids to be recognized for their character and competence in school rather than for their appearance or what their last name is,” Faught said. “My hope is that this positive recognition will create a spark, and those students will realize that doing the right things in life feels good. It’s really just a celebration for them being responsible. We celebrate rather than reward.”

Faught tasked school principals with selecting one student each month, beginning in September. Students are chosen based on criteria such as strong attendance, good behavior, and setting a positive example for their peers. According to Faught, the ideal honoree may be a student who often goes unnoticed or isn’t typically in the spotlight.

Brantley School Principal Marcus Taylor praised the initiative, highlighting its role in promoting positive behavior across schools in the county.

“We want to extend a thank you to our Crenshaw County Interim Superintendent, Mr. Faught, for his leadership and vision in encouraging us to recognize a Student of the Month each month,” Taylor said. “Thanks to his guidance, the selected student will be honored at our board meetings and presented with a plaque recognizing their outstanding contributions to our school.”

Luverne School representatives echoed its support through a social media post, stating, “[The Crenshaw County Board of Education] values the importance of recognizing improved student performance, positive character actions, and good decisions made at school,” 

Highland Home School also lauded Sampley, with counselor Cody Walters commending him for representing the best qualities of a Squadron student.

“We are so proud of David and what he represents—a true example of a Squadron student,” Walters said.

The “Student of the Month” initiative celebrates students who exemplify outstanding qualities both in and out of the classroom, fostering a culture of recognition for personal responsibility and character within Crenshaw County Schools.