Every year the music programs at the middle schools present awards to certain outgoing 8th grade students; the awards are usually presented at the Spring Concerts. The Outstanding Musician awards include a $100 dollar scholarship, provided by SOKM, which the student can use for a music-related activity such as music camp or to help with high school music fees. All the awards include the students names on perpetual plaques held at each school, and individual plaques given to the students.
The awards are: Outstanding 8th Grade Musician, Most Improved 8th Grade Musician, the Alan Black Memorial Award, the Don and Jacky Wallace Memorial Award, and Director awards. Students who have been in the music program for five years receive pins.
At Las Colinas Middle School, the Most Outstanding award went to Kyla Stivers. Most Improved, Taylor Fuchs and Roberto Murillo. Alan Black Award, Jacob Speth. Wallace Award, Alyssa Pacheco. Director Award, Jeanette Garcia, Aaron Martinez and Kyle Richey.
At Monte Vista Middle School, the Outstanding Musician award went to Emily Chang. Most Improved, Luke Patterson and Mason Sachs. Alan Black Award, Matteo Rivera. Wallace Award, Angela Batoon. Director Award, Isabelle Oroc and Janne Salcedo.
Emily Chang also won Most Outstanding Musician for YAA Orchestra. The Most Improved 8th grader for Orchestra was Janne Salcedo, the Director Award went to Aaron Martinez. Eight 5-year pins were awarded.
Congratulations to these musicians for their achievements, and we at SOKM hope you will continue your music education as you go on to high school!