On the last day of school on June 2, students at Martin Meylin Middle School convened in the school gymnasium to celebrate their achievements and be recognized for their hard work. Awards were given to certain students who excelled in different areas, and teachers recognized those in the school who went above and beyond.

The names of all eighth-graders on the honor roll were read aloud, and students were highlighted for their accomplishments in each department. The Academic Achievement Award was given to eighth-graders who remained at the top of the honor roll for the entirety of middle school; after being named, each student received a certificate for the achievement. Additionally, students were honored for athletic achievements, participation in Student Council and other accomplishments.

"We recognize a lot of things beyond academic achievements," said Alicia Kowitz, principal of Martin Meylin Middle School. "Students who might not always achieve high academic honors or extracurriculars need to be recognized as well."

The George Myers Leadership Award was granted to Cooper Hillen. Each year, the award is given to one eighth-grader who has demonstrated strong leadership skills, leading by example and being the best student he or she can be. "Cooper was really recognized by his quiet leadership. He led by example through his actions and words," said Kowitz. "His behavior resonated with the staff, and we were happy to present him with the award." Hillen's parents and grandparents were present at the ceremony to watch him receive the award.

The George Myers Leadership Award is named after the first principal of the school, who served in the role from 1967 to 1987. Myers' daughter, Maurine Myers Dukes, created the award in his honor in 1992, and it has been given out every year since. Teachers nominate students for the award, and the recipient is selected through a vote of the entire faculty.

The awards ceremony also featured several rounds of tug-of-war between students and teachers. Teams representing each grade and the school's staff members faced off in the tournament. Students were selected for each team through the school's Positive Behavior Intervention System (PBIS). Through PBIS, students earn tickets by exhibiting positive behavior at school. The students may redeem tickets for small prizes and candy during their lunch period or submit them in a drawing box to be chosen for the tug-of-war tournament at the end of the year. "PBIS is a school-wide initiative to focus on positive reinforcement, rather than negative reinforcement," Kowitz said. "We've seen a decrease in repetitive (negative) behaviors ever since we implemented it."