Aynor Middle School - Makayla Yu Butler - 8th grade
She was nominated by her guidance counselor, Margie Gordyk.

Courageous is the first word that comes to mind when describing Makayla Butler.  Makayla moved to the US from China last summer and began Aynor Middle School as an 8th grader with little knowledge of English. Makayla asked, in her limited English, to include music in her schedule; she loves piano. Once behind the piano in chorus, she could communicate through the universal language of music and relationships began to develop.  Makayla now has all A/B’s and her infectious smile and enthusiasm warms everyones heart.

Black Water Middle - Sarah Harrelson - 6th grade
She was nominated by her teacher, Meredith D’Amico.

Sarah Harrelson has experienced personal difficulties and has demonstrated courage and personal integrity in overcoming these challenges to become an excellent student and leader in the classroom.

Conway Middle School - Abigail Collins - 7th grade
She was nominated by her teacher, Yvonne Williams. 

Forestbrook Middle School - Justin Abbasi - 8th grade
He was nominated by his teacher, Ashley Rhodes. 

Justin was always a good student, but a family tragedy presented an unbelieveable challenge. Justin has taken the high road, and is excelling.  He is an even better student, is confident and sociable with lots of friends.  With Justin as a lead attorney, the Forestbrook Middle School Mock Trial Team went on to win the Regional, then State Championship! He is now interested in pursuing a career in Law, with a goal to be a Prosecuting Attorney one day. With Justin's experiences, drive, and wisdom, we know he will be a success!

Justin is the winner of the 2010 Taylor McKinney Award for Courage.

Green Sea Floyds Middle - Nicholas Ammons - 8th grade
He was nominated by his teacher, Cherry Willoughby.

Nicholas has overcome many obstacles. He struggled with a learning disability when he was younger but with a lot of hard work, he became better. He became distracted when his parents divorced but with the help of family and school, he is back on track. Today, Nicholas is doing great! He is an amazing, wonderful child and will grow to do great things.

Loris Middle School - Jeremy Floyd - 8th grade
He was nominated by his counselor, Pat Hatcher.

Jeremy Floyd has proven to be an outstanding student both in the classroom and on the football field. When faced with challenges and obstacles, he has overcome each one by making good choices for himself. Despite a severe car accident, he leads on the football field. He excels in the honors classes in which he worked hard to earn a place.

Myrtle Beach Middle - Kyle McCarthy - 8th grade
He was nominated by his teacher, Cheryl Bowers.

Kyle McCarthy is a great kid! He is an 8th grader who moved to Myrtle Beach from Connecticut this year. Despite many changes in Kyle’s school experiences, he has overcome many obstacles. He has made friends, gotten along well with everyone, and is very nice. Kyle has a positive attitude and is a perfect role model for all.

North Myrtle Beach Middle - Brandi Buckner - 8th grade
She was nominated by her guidance counselor, Beth Hill.

Brandi Buckner is a remarkable young lady who accomplishes goals she sets for herself despite her handicap.  As a matter of fact, she does not feel she has a handicap because she modifies obstacles so that she can be successful. Brandi was born with baby binding syndrome which caused her fingers and toes to be connected together. She has overcome so many obstacles and she continues to keep a positive attitude about everything in her life. Brandi is the type of student teachers dream of teaching.  She is an inspiration to all that come in contact with her.

Ocean Bay Middle - David Starr - 7th grade
He was nominated by his teacher, Cindy Lilly.

David Starr’s father passed away unexpectedly on July 1, 2009. Even in the face of this tremendous obstacle, David has been a standout student academically, athletically and in the community. He is currently an A-B student, an active member of his youth group at Christ Community in Conway, and he was a huge asset to the OBM football team this season. His teachers describe David as the kindest, most considerate and caring student in the 7th grade. He is the first to offer assistance to struggling students. He is a true example of character and leadership!

St. James Middle School - Rachel McColl - 7th grade
She was nominated by her teacher, Kimberly Ogburn.

Whittemore Park Middle School - Demar Williams - 8th grade
He was nominated by his school resource officer, Darren Alston.

Whittemore Park Middle School is proud to announce Demar Williams as our HTC REEL Kid nominee this year. A recent house fire destroyed everything, but Demar came to school putting his best foot forward. He didn't allow this great loss to distract from his educational pursuits. He is a true team player in everything he sets out to do. Demar has shown us all that a positive attitude can take you a long way in overcoming obstacles.