Pau-Wa-Lu recognizes 290 of its top students

It looked as though the 300 students were cheering their team at a pep rally when they were actually celebrating themselves as honor students.

Pau-Wa-Lu Middle School held an academics assembly to recognize students who received a 3.3 grade point average and better and students who excelled in the Accelerated Reader program.

Out of a student population of 778 students, 290 were on the honor roll. The students received certificates and star pins.

"The star is something to show off like a badge," said principal Robbin Pedrett.

Former National Football League player and Gardnerville resident JoJo Townsell told the students if they felt passionate about something, the teachers at Pau-Wa-Lu were there to help give them a chance to succeed.

"Communicate that," Townsell said. "You've got to have self-esteem and find someone to help you get to the next level.

"My pet peeve with anyone of any age is when I see them wasting their talent. Fulfill your dream," he said.

Townsell said to put education first.

"Education makes you prepared for any opportunity that comes your way," he said.

Michael Clark is a seventh grader who received a certificate and a star for having a 4.0 grade point average.

"Our school worked hard this year," Michael said. "I always try my hardest. Some tests are hard but we try to do our best."