Rotary Students and Teachers of the Month

Walnut Grove high school Rotary students, senior Samuel Goins and senior Ella J. Stover and their chosen Rotary teachers of the month were honored to be chosen by the Rotary Club of Monroe student of the month program.
by Tristan Banks and Addison Butler

Samuel Goins
Student Samuel Goins was one of the students chosen for rotary student of the month. Samuel feels positive with this achievement and said, “It's pretty good, I got chosen in tenth grade, so it's not as new and doesn't have that novelty, but it feels good to be chosen.” He also says, “It feels like a symbol of what I worked hard for.”

He believes this has helped his current and future life, “It helped me connect with other students who are motivated like me to do good things for the community.” Being chosen for rotary student of the month helped him see his hard work.  He says, “Mr. Allen told me that when I graduate, I was one of the few students around the school who he thought of first when missing students, and that was nice.

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Mr. John Belflower
Mr. Belflower, a teacher here at Walnut Grove high school was one of the Rotary teachers his selected student was Samuel Goins he says, “Being recognized by the Rotary Club as Student and Teacher of the Month can have a profound impact on both the recipients and the broader educational community. For students like Sammy Goins, such acknowledgment highlights their hard work and achievements, fostering a sense of pride and motivation. It serves as a public affirmation that their efforts are seen and valued, encouraging them to continue striving for excellence. For teachers, it is a reminder of the significant influence they have on their students and a motivator to persist in their dedication to education, regardless of the challenges they face.”

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Ms. Lauren Whitehurst
Teacher Lauren Whitehurst was chosen for rotary teacher of the month.  She explains how this impacted not only her, but also the students. Mrs. Whitehurst says, “Teachers don't always see the impact of our work, we are trying really hard to reach kids, so when a student chooses you to be rotary student of the month, it is immediate feedback that you made a difference in at least one kid's life.” She also says, “I think for the students, it is nice to get reconnaissance from the principal that he saw you. It is also something that you could use on a job or college resume.” When asked about how she thinks she got this accomplishment, she said, “For me, it was basically doing your best everyday and trying to make a difference in a kid's life.”

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Mr. John Belflower (cont'd)
Mr. Belflower goes into detail about the Rotary program's effect on the local, state, and national stage.

“The Rotary program that includes recognitions like Student and Teacher of the Month is part of a broader initiative by Rotary Clubs worldwide. These programs aim to promote leadership, academic excellence, and civic responsibility among young people. By recognizing outstanding students and educators, Rotary Clubs emphasize the importance of academic and ethical standards, nurturing future leaders who are prepared to contribute positively to society.”

“Being chosen as the Rotary Teacher of the Month is an incredibly humbling experience. It reaffirms the positive impact a teacher can have on their community and acknowledges the hard work and dedication required to inspire and educate students. It’s a recognition not just of teaching excellence but also of the ability to positively influence the lives of students and encourage them towards greater achievements... Achieving recognition as a Rotary Teacher or Student of the Month involves a consistent display of excellence and commitment. For a student, it means maintaining high academic standards and contributing positively to the school and community. For teachers, it involves not only delivering high-quality education but also inspiring students and colleagues alike through leadership and dedication. This process is rigorous, requiring a sustained effort in not just teaching but also in embodying the values of the Rotary Club.”

​“The Rotary program plays a crucial role in encouraging a tradition of excellence and service among the next generation. By recognizing and rewarding outstanding academic and civic contributions, it motivates students to pursue high standards of achievement and community service. This, in turn, helps cultivate a well-educated, ethically minded, and service-oriented cohort of young people who are prepared to uphold and enrich the democratic principles and practices of a healthy republic.



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While Ms. Stover was unavailable for comment, she, Mr. Goins, and their teachers felt great about being a part of the rotary club and the teachers are looking forward to having more success for their students in the future.