May 4, 2026 – Sixteen outstanding fifth-grade students from Mexico Public Schools were honored this evening at Emmons Hall for earning the prestigious President’s Award for Educational Excellence.

Students from both Eugene Field Elementary School and Hawthorne Elementary School were recognized for their exceptional academic achievement, strong character, and steady commitment to learning throughout their elementary years.

The President’s Award for Educational Excellence recognizes students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance while consistently showing responsibility, perseverance, and a dedication to learning.

To qualify for this national recognition, students were required to:

• Consistently meet or exceed grade-level standards in English Language Arts on their report cards
• Score at the proficient or advanced level on the fourth-grade Missouri Assessment Program assessments in both Math and English Language Arts
• Demonstrate the work ethic, character, and commitment to excellence that will continue to serve them in middle school and beyond

“This award is about much more than one test, one grade, or one great day,” EF Principal Scott Daly shared. “It reflects years of hard work, consistency, and a commitment to doing their best every day.”

Each student receiving the award also received an official letter from the U.S. Department of Education recognizing their academic achievement and encouraging them to continue pursuing excellence through learning.

Families gathered to celebrate the students, with photos, certificates, and group pictures marking the occasion. Following the ceremony, attendees were invited to enjoy refreshments in the school cafeteria.

Mexico Public Schools congratulates all of this year’s award recipients for their achievements and looks forward to seeing the impact these students will continue to make as they take the next step in their Bulldog education.

Eugene Field 5th Grade Student Presidential Award Honorees: 

• Ana Burrow
• Baylor Pappas
• Dean Swon
• Kelly Barnett
• Jackson Bryant
• Sophia Steelman
• Beau Crabtree
• Nalizio Zunguze
• Brayden Cross

Eugene Field 5th Grade Teachers: Beth Alexander, Gavin Jones, Amanda Warmbrodt, Shana Wiley

Eugene Field Administration: Scott Daly, Principal; Robin Friedrich, Assistant Principal

Hawthorne 5th Grade Student Presidential Award Honorees: 

• Caleb Creech
• Dylan Dalton
• Ameilia Nock
• Raigan Robinett
• Reed Schierbaum
• Jaxon Garner
• Abrianna Williams

Hawthorne Elementary Teachers: Brandon Eick, Sarah Femrite, Mariah Medina, Rashonda Willis

Hawthorne Administration: Katie Lehnen, Principal; Brett Davis, Assistant Principal

District administration: Dr. Troy Lentz, Superintendent; Mrs. Julie Lower-Welch, Assistant Superintendent.