MCEC Celebrates 2024 Student 2 Student Team of the Year Awards at Global Training Summit

HARKER HEIGHTS, Texas – July 31, 2024 — The Military Child Education Coalition® (MCEC®) proudly announces the winners of the 2024 Student 2 Student® (S2S^TM) Team of the Year Awards, presented at the MCEC Global Training Summit in Washington, DC. These awards recognize exceptional S2S teams at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, celebrating their dedication to easing transitions for military-connected students.

“Congratulations to this year’s S2S Team of the Year winners,” said Dr. Becky Porter, MCEC President and CEO. “Your efforts to support your peers during transitions demonstrate the spirit of camaraderie and leadership that defines the S2S program.”

The awards ceremony included special presentations by students from various S2S teams, highlighting their initiatives and successes. Emma Thomas, former member of S2S at Union Pines High School, recipient of the 2019 Frances Hesselbein Student Leadership Program (FHSLP)recipient, and current UNC-Charlotte School of Nursing Senior, attended this year’s summit as an S2S advisor.  “I encourage all students to embrace every opportunity MCEC has to offer, and to step out of your comfort zones,” said Thomas of the personal growth and confidence she experienced through S2S and the FHSLP.

The 2024 S2S Team of the Year Award Winners:

Elementary School Level:

House Creek Elementary – Copperas Cove, Texas

For the second consecutive year, House Creek Elementary’s S2S team excelled in leadership development and community service. They conducted engaging activities like “Stacking Cups with Rubber Bands” to enhance communication and teamwork. The team also led multiple family engagement nights and service projects, contributing over 1,000 hours to initiatives such as food drives, recycling campaigns, and fundraising for the American Cancer Society. Their efforts fostered a welcoming school climate and strong relationships among students and staff.

Middle School Level:

Driscoll Middle School – San Antonio, Texas

Driscoll Middle School’s S2S team highlighted exceptional leadership by planning and executing various school and community activities. They organized Veterans Day events, participated in the Fiesta Flambeau Parade, and created an impactful Month of the Military Child celebration. Their service projects included feeding the homeless, supporting local veterans, and promoting mental health awareness. The team’s dedication to academic support and a welcoming environment for new students exemplifies their commitment to service and inclusion.

High School Level:

Burkburnett High School – Burkburnett, Texas

Also winning for the second consecutive year, Burkburnett High School’s S2S team is known for its strong leadership structure, academic support, and inclusive culture. The team’s members engage in various leadership committees and have significantly impacted the school community. Their initiatives include late tryouts for new students, a fentanyl awareness campaign, and extensive community service projects like aiding fire victims and supporting local families in need. The team’s dedication to 100% acceptance and service makes them a standout.

Elite Team of the Year:

Liberty Middle School – Madison, Alabama

Liberty Middle School, last year’s Middle School Team of the Year, now recognized as the Elite Team of the Year, stood out for its comprehensive support system for new students and its commitment to service. The team hosted events like “Welcome to the Den” for rising sixth graders, monthly bingo with local veterans, and the “Dandelion Gala” for military families. They raised funds for children’s hospitals, supported local animal shelters, and installed Free Little Libraries at multiple locations. Their proactive approach to leadership, inclusion, and community service highlights their exceptional contribution to the S2S program.

About the Award

The S2S Team of the Year Awards celebrate the outstanding efforts of student-led teams that assist new students in acclimating to their schools and communities, fostering a supportive and welcoming environment.

About the Military Child Education Coalition

MCEC® is a 501(c)(3) global nonprofit leadership, service delivery, and advocacy organization. MCEC supports all military-connected children by educating, advocating, and collaborating to resolve education challenges associated with the military lifestyle. Learn more about the national advocacy efforts of MCEC at MilitaryChild.org and on social media at Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Media Contact:
Karen Kirk
Director of Marketing and Creative
Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC)
Email: Karen.Kirk@MilitaryChild.org
Phone: 254.953.1923 ext. 1123