Shouts of excitement and joy filled the gym of
Highlands Middle when students realized they were attending a surprise pep rally to kick-off this year’s A-Team Program, sponsored by Winn-Dixie and the Jacksonville Jaguars.
The award program, now in its fifth year, rewards middle school students and teachers for their hard work in academics, good attendance and overall attitude.
The students walked into the gymnasium to the beat of the Jacksonville Jaguars D-line, and were given teal and black pompoms to cheer on the guests. Several surprise guests were in attendance to congratulate and encourage the students, including members of The ROAR, Jaxson de Ville, Cole Pepper, the Jaguars radio host, and retired Jaguars players Quinn Gray and Micah Ross, who are now teachers at Andrew Jackson and Atlantic Coast high schools, respectively.
Eight Highlands students became the first members of the 2010-2011 Winn-Dixie A-Team. These students were chosen by Principal Dr. Catherine Barnes based on the three A’s - academics, attendance and a positive attitude. The students were awarded a four-pack of tickets to a Jaguars home game.
The school also received a $500 check from Winn Dixie.
For each of the Jacksonville Jaguars home games this season, Winn-Dixie will provide family four-packs of tickets to select students and two-packs to select teachers in Duval, St. Johns, Clay, Flagler, Baker, Nassau and Putnam counties.
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