The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools has announced that out of the 47 students named in the 2012 Carson Scholars awards, 25 are from Cape Coral. Nine are also First Time Scholars.

Each year, the foundation recognizes a select group of high achieving students in 5th grade who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and humanitarian qualities, said Marshall T. Bower, Esq., president and CEO of the foundation.

“Students will receive a $1,000 college scholarship award and the honor of being named a Carson Scholar,” he said.

In addition to the scholarship award, the selected students were honored at a recognition banquet last Saturday, May 19, at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort.

“World-renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Benjamin Carson delivered the keynote address,” said Bower. “Additionally, 47 Lee County students have renewed their Carson Scholar status. These previous winners have maintained high academic standards and a strong commitment to their communities and are being recognized for their continued efforts.”

Nine students were named First Time Scholars in Cape Coral, with the following biographies provided by Bower:

n Tyler Center, Grade 5, Hector A. Cafferata Jr. Elementary School

“Tyler has been inspired by all of his teachers so much so that he can’t even choose a favorite! He has an impeccable work ethic and always tries to learn from his mistakes. He is part of the Math Team, Odyssey of the Mind, and Safety Patrol.”

n Andrew Davis, Grade 5, Diplomat Elementary School

“Andrew takes his learning seriously and is motivated to succeed. He sets such a good example for others that he was chosen to be a school ambassador, assisting a teacher with classroom responsibilities and working with younger students.”

n Kaleigh Edwards, Grade 5, Pelican Elementary School

Kaleigh is always an active participant in class discussions. She is passionate about her beliefs, yet able to consider different perspectives. She hopes to become a meteorologist one day and enjoys playing soccer, singing, and listening to music.”

n Abbey Flecha, Grade 5, Cape Elementary School

“Abbey doesn’t just volunteer, she initiates and organizes new service projects for herself and her peers. For example, she has organized a school-wide clothes and food drive to benefit the Salvation Army and organizes groups of friends to go to a nursing home.

n Haley Geer, Grade 5, Gulf Elementary School

“Outside of school, Haley is involved with many different causes. She holds lemonade stands to raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, makes posters to advertise the Strides Against Breast Cancer walk and helps in her church’s nursery.”

n Alexandra Nieves, Grade 5, Caloosa Elementary School

“Alexandra’s 5th grade teacher has inspired her to never give up and to believe in herself. She has learned the importance of taking good notes, studying ‘smart,’ and taking the time to carefully complete all tests and assignments.

n Steven Rua, Grade 5, Trafalgar Elementary School

“Steven genuinely loves learning. He regularly completes his assignments ahead of schedule and is persistent in everything he does. He has won many academic awards and particularly enjoys math. In the future, he hopes to become a doctor or professional swimmer.

n Lucien Sanford, Grade 5, Skyline Elementary School

“Lucien is a creative student who enjoys being challenged, especially in math. He is a volunteer at his school, at his church and with his Boy Scout troop. He regularly wins awards for both academics and citizenship, and enjoys drawing and collecting coins.

n Lauren Witte, Grade 5, Patriot Elementary School

“When Lauren’s church was moving to a new building, she spent many weekends and evenings helping to pack, clean, paint and watch the children of the adult volunteers. At school, she is a member of the morning news crew and enjoys social studies and science.

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The Carson Scholars Fund is a nonprofit organization founded in 1994 by Dr. Benjamin Carson and his wife, Candy. The Carson Scholars Fund has active chapters in Maryland; Delaware; Washington, D.C.; and selected areas in California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Pennsylvania and Tennessee. This year, 402 students from across the nation were named 2012 Carson Scholars. In addition, 730 students renewed their Carson Scholar status.

The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools Inc. is a private, 501(c) 3 non-profit organization established in 1986. Its mission is to enhance and enrich the quality of public education in Lee County for students and educators through programs, resources and experiences made possible through corporate, individual and educational partnerships. The Carson Scholars Fund was initiated in Lee County in 2009. Since then, The Foundation has awarded 152 scholarships to outstanding elementary school students.

For more information about this program, call Bower at 337-0433 or email Janelle@leeschoolfoundation.org.