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The Florala High School Peers Actively Working to Serve program was recently recognized as one of 32 recipients of the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools’ 2024 School of Distinction Award.

The CLAS School of Distinction Award recognizes school programs that serve as outstanding educational models for other schools in Alabama.

“I am honored to serve as the sponsor of the Peers Actively Working to Serve. PAWS I believe embodies the unique spirit of Florala and the remarkable qualities of our students. Through our partnership with the Tri-Cities Christian Service Center, we engage in meaningful community service every first and third Friday of the month, where we pack and distribute food for their ‘Food Fridays’ program on the third Friday,” Sponsor Presley Zessin said.

Led by Zessin, there are approximately 40 students in Florala High School’s PAWS program.

“The PAWS program was created to actively involve our students in the community and foster a sense of pride in the city of Florala. By participating in PAWS, students not only contribute to the welfare of others but also play a vital role in shaping the future of Florala High School and our community. Additionally, we collaborate closely with the City of Florala, supporting various events and initiatives as needed. I have such a love for Florala and am immensely proud of our students and their dedicated efforts through the PAWS program,” she said.

Four schools were selected for the School of Distinction Award from each of the eight districts across the state. Each recipient will be recognized at an awards luncheon in May.

“Congratulations to these wonderful Alabama public schools. The CLAS Schools of Distinction provide excellent examples of the significant learning opportunities taking place in public education in Alabama. Further, the stakeholders at every School of Distinction are to be commended for striving for excellence daily,” said CLAS Executive Director Dr. Vic Wilson.

The CLAS Banner School program was created in 2001 to recognize schools in Alabama that showcase outstanding programs and services to students. A total of 234 schools were nominated for this prestigious recognition. A CLAS Banner School recipient will be announced at the awards ceremony in May.

For more information about Florala’s PAWS program email presley.zessin@cov.k12.al.us.