Rome High School STAR (Student Teacher Achievement Recognition) student Anna Davidson and STAR teacher Kelly Goldin were recognized by the Exchange Club of Rome Friday afternoon, March 11, at the weekly club meeting at Coosa Valley Fairgrounds.
While lunch was served, Exchange Club President Lee Roberts began the day’s agenda by explaining to attendees that in order to obtain a STAR nomination, a graduating senior must have the highest score on a single test date of the SAT and must be in the top ten percent of their class based on grade point average.
Davidson scored an impressive 1570 on her SATs. Her score was 150 points higher than any other score, school-wide.
The STAR program, in its 64th year, is sponsored locally by the Rome Floyd Chamber.
From the Rome Floyd Chamber, Ben Murray, director of workforce and development and Eric Collins director of programs, presented the STAR students and teachers from Rome City as well as Floyd County Schools.
Murray told attendees, “The designation of STAR student is quite an accomplishment as it requires hard work, dedication and commitment. These students, without a doubt, are among the rising leaders of the future in our community.”
Upon introduction, Anna Davidson took the podium with gratitude.
“I’d like to thank all of my teachers at Rome High," she said, "but especially Ms. Goldin, my STAR teacher. She was my chemistry teacher and she turned chemistry from a subject that could have been tedious or difficult into one that was fun and interesting to learn.”
“She always has her door open to anyone who needs a friend and she’s always been there for me,” Davidson added.
She told Exchange Club attendees that while she has not yet chosen a college or university, she does plan to major in environmental science or marine biology.
Goldin smiled as she stepped onto the stage.
“I’m so honored to be here and to have had the opportunity to teach Anna for two different years and really grow to know her as a person over the last couple of years,” she said.
“Anna is so intelligent and hardworking, and what I think is most impressive about this young lady is her heart. She is a friend to everybody. She's always helping those who need it in class. I've never heard her say anything but a kind word for anybody,” Goldin said.
With a smile and a glance toward Davidson, she added, “Anna makes this world a better place and I'm so excited to see where the future takes her.”
The meeting concluded with proud applause from club members, guests and STAR student/teacher supporters.
Congratulations again, to Anna Davidson and Kelly Goldin!
