Ferndale Youth Assistance held its 30^th Annual Youth Recognition Dinner and Awards Program on April 29, 2009 at Ferndale High School. The Youth Recognition event pays tribute to our honored youth in the Ferndale School District that have gone above and beyond in helping their school and community. Students were nominated by teachers and administrators from Adult Education, CASA, Ferndale High School, University High School, Ferndale Middle School and Coolidge Intermediate School There were over 125 students in our school district who were either recognized for their individual achievement or for their achievements as a group. Students were acknowledged for their extraordinary academic and athletic accomplishments, involvement in community service projects, overcoming personal tragedies and preserving through adversity, and for serving as role models to students throughout the school district. Students and their parents, along with award nominators, were treated to a strolling dinner before the award ceremony. Award recipients were presented with certificates from several local and state dignitaries, who were also in attendance that night.

This year also marked the third year of the David Michael Smith Memorial Scholarship, which Lloyd and Dianna Smith began after the tragic loss of their son on July 29, 2006.  The scholarship was awarded to one graduating senior who was able to overcome adversity and various obstacles throughout his high school career. The committee selected a student from Adult Education as the scholarship recipient. Lloyd and Dianna Smith will continue to provide a $500 scholarship to one youth each year at Youth Recognition in memory of their son, David.

This event gives our school district a great opportunity to recognize and acknowledge so many students who go "above and beyond."  Many of these students face adversity and challenges on a daily basis but have preserved and made a difference in the lives of so many other students and individuals in our community. We want to congratulate all of our award recipients this year.