On the evening of April 30th, the auditorium at Brunswick High School was filled with something more powerful than just school spirit, it was filled with character. We gathered to honor the students and educators who remind us every day that kindness isn't just a gesture; it’s a way of life.

The Katz-Helen and Ray Whittle, Jr. Foundation has been a pillar of Glynn County since 1999. It all started with Helen Whittle Katz’s simple yet profound vision: to acknowledge youth who live by the Golden Rule Law of Life: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you, for what you do to others will bring good or bad consequences to your own life." For over 25 years, this program has encouraged our community to remember that what we put out into the world eventually finds its way back to us.

While every student invited to the ceremony has shown remarkable character, we are thrilled to announce our Students of the Year. These three students were selected for their unwavering commitment to the Golden Rule and each received a $250 cash award:

• Elementary School: Kylie Brown (Glyndale Elementary)
• Middle School: Oliver Rowell (Jane Macon Middle)
• High School: Sadie Weis (Brunswick High)

Character isn't just taught in textbooks; it’s lived by the adults who lead our schools. This year, we were proud to recognize two exceptional individuals who go above and beyond to nurture a positive environment:

• The Don and Marjorie Varnadoe Paragon Award is a prestigious honor presented to an educator who goes above and beyond in teaching and living the Golden Rule within Glynn County Schools. The selected teacher received a $1,500 cash award. This year’s award was presented to Debbie Croslyn of Golden Isles Elementary. 
• The Golden Rule Staff Award honors a non-certified staff member who leads by example and nurtures a positive environment for their students. The selected teacher received a $1,500 cash award. This award winner this year was presented to Nikeia Mobley of Goodyear Elementary. 

A major highlight of the night was recognizing seniors from Brunswick High (BHS), Glynn Academy (GA), and Golden Isles College & Career Academy (GICCA). These students have demonstrated a long-term commitment to integrity:

Senior Award Winners ($3,000 each)

• Martin Davis – BHS
• Landon Wilson – GA
• Ian Carter – GICCA

Senior Award 1st Runner-Ups ($1,500 each)

• Charlie Clay – BHS
• Diego Nakay – GA
• Shaylee West – GICCA

Senior Award 2nd Runner-Ups ($1,000 each)

• Freddie Murphy – BHS
• Joie Showers – GA
• Anna Weese – GICCA

In addition to our top winners, monthly winners from across the county were introduced and received a certificate of accomplishment and a $50 cash award.

As the ceremony concluded and we moved into the reception, the atmosphere was one of genuine gratitude. These awards are about more than just a ceremony; they are about the small, daily choices that make our schools safer, kinder, and more supportive places to learn.

To all of our winners: Thank you for being the light in our hallways. Your actions prove that the Golden Rule is just as relevant today as it was in 1999!