Vidalia BOE Recognizes Downie & Helms

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During their regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, January 14, the Vidalia Board of Education recognized J.D. Dickerson Primary School Student Nora Downie and J.D. Dickerson Primary School Parent- Teacher Organization (PTO) President Heather Helms.

Nora Downie

Downie was recognized with the monthly Student SPEAR Award, which honors students who exemplify Service, Participation, Excellence, or Achievement (Recognition) (SPEAR). “We started this award to recognize students who stand out not only on an academic or athletic level, but also contributing to our community and going above and beyond. We want to recognize these students that are demonstrating characteristics of being an excellent citizen,” Superintendent Sandy Reid explained.

According to J. D. Dickerson Primary School Assistant Principal Leslie Wiggins, Downie is a Pre-K student in Sabrina and Alaina Thompson’s class. She is very active in the community, as she volunteers with Mercy Ministries and the Imago Dei organization that benefits foster families. Downie is highly involved in extracurricular activities, including playing soccer at the Vidalia Recreation Department, dancing on the Sassy Sisters Competition Team, and participating in gymnastics. She enjoys pageantry and currently holds the titles of Little Miss J.D. Dickerson Pre-K, Tiny Miss Vidalia Onion, and Miss Ottawa Farms Strawberry Queen.

“She truly embodies service, participation, excellence, and achievement,” Wiggins told the Board and attendees. “Nora is truly a star Indian, whether you see her in the classroom, on the stage, on the gymnastics mat – anybody that comes in contact with her [sees] her smile and vibrant personality. Her joyful spirit shines as she celebrates her peers’ successes and she supports everyone backstage [when performing or competing].”

Downie is the daughter of Jack and Jessica Downie, and the family are all active members of Vidalia Cornerstone Church. “Nora loves to learn about Jesus and share her joy with others. Her dedication, her positive attitude, and her kindness makes her a true role model,” Wiggins concluded.

Downie was given a certificate to commemorate the occasion by Superintendent Reid, who congratulated the student on the achievement.

Heather Helms

After recognizing Downie, J.D. Dickerson Primary School Principal Charlene Norfleet and Superintendent Reid recognized Heather Helms for her contribution to the school.

Superintendent Reid began the recognition by explaining the purpose of the Indian Star Award, which is given to a selected community member each month. “This award celebrates individuals or groups who embody the spirit of service, inspire others, and contribute meaningfully to the betterment of the Vidalia City School System and the greater community,” she explained.

Principal Norfleet spoke on Helms’ deserving of the award, saying, “Mrs. Heather Helms is a shining example of dedication and leadership within the Vidalia community. As president of the PTO at J.D. Dickerson [Primary School], she has worked tirelessly to engage over 25 parents – which is unheard of – inspiring them to actively participate in enhancing the educational experience of students and staff.”

Norfleet added, “Her commitment to supporting the school is evident in her consistent willingness to lend a helping hand whenever needed. Whether organizing fundraisers, reaching out to administration for innovative ideas, or motivating and encouraging staff, Mrs. Helms has truly made a lasting impact.”

“Her passion and selflessness embody the spirit of this award,” Norfleet concluded, thanking Helms For her contributions to the school.

Helms reacted to the honor, saying, “I am thankful to be a part of the school. We have had a great experience at J.D. Dickerson.”

Helms was given a certificate to commemorate the occasion, and was thanked for her contributions to the school by Superintendent Reid.

SPEAR AWARD – Nora Downie (left) was given the SPEAR Award at the January 14 meeting of the Vidalia City Schools Board of Education for her excellence inside and outside the classroom. She was presented the award by Superintendent Sandy Reid (right).Photo by Makaylee Randolph