DWS Student Nominated for the John W. Harris Leadership Award

DWS Junior Beta President Garrett Hayes was the local nominee for the Beta Club’s Most Valuable Player trophy. Unfortunately, the 8th grader
didn’t make the final cut for the John W. Harris Leadership Award at the national level, but he still stands as a worthy contender. Not only has Garrett excelled academically, the gifted student also consistently demonstrates outstanding character with his compassion, dedication, and reliability in his service to others.
Garrett’s compassion is evidenced in part by his service to the Webb House Retirement home in Smithville where he volunteers twice monthly. “He has taken the time to get to know many of our residents, learning what they enjoy,” said Jenny Abernathy, Webb House Retirement Center Activities Director. “He spends time in our memory care unit with a lady who enjoys his piano playing and being read to. For our residents who have dogs, he lends a hand by taking their pups for a walk around the building. He helps the puzzle group with their latest jigsaw puzzle and even assists the kitchen staff by clearing tables after lunch. His service has not only been welcomed but greatly appreciated.”
Garrett’s dedication is displayed at his church home, Prosperity Baptist Church, where he performs with the group’s drama team as part of his service. “We can always depend on Garrett for cooperation, faithfulness, and dependability,” says Youth Leader Linda Hayes. “It is immediately clear that he has compassion for others and is always willing to raise his hand to answer, pray , or help another member of the group. Hayes says Garrett displays courage and loyalty among his peers and demonstrates “good Christian morals and leadership traits”
Garrett has shown initiative at school, helping to start our first-ever STEM Club. He assists with the care of younger students prior to the start of the school day. He regularly helps with Beta service projects and with outside projects like volunteering for the setup for the county fair and working during the county fair.
Besides Garrett’s academic talents, he has a flair for the creative. Entering the Visual Arts category for two years at the Tennessee Junior Beta State Convention, he placed second in Color Photography this school year, qualifying him to be the school’s first contestant to compete at the national level. He’ll be competing next month at the Junior Beta National Convention in Orlando, FL.