Academy for Arts, Science & Technology - Nichole Accordini - 11th grade
She was nominated by her guidance counselor, Lisa Aglietti.

Nicole Accordini has overcome many barriers during her journey through high school. Since finding out she was to become a mother, her motivation and willingness to be successful in school has been remarkable. Since becoming a mother in December, Nichole has worked even harder to maintain her grades, attendance and her responsibilities at her job. Nicole still has one more year of high school and with continued hard work, will no doubt go on and lead a productive life.

Nichole is the winner of a $2,000 Wireless Alliance Scholarship.

Academy for Technology & Academics - Ashleigh Ferguson - 11th grade
She was nominated by her teacher, Dr. Teresa Nirenstein. 

Near the end of her 8th grade year, Ashleigh Ferguson lost her mother to cancer. She had to relocate to SC to live with her Aunt and Uncle. She is a student of Dr. Nirenstein in the Health Science program and her base school is Carolina Forest. She made the state swimming team for the relay event. She has played volleyball and was a student ambassador representative to Europe the summer of 2009. She is currently an A/B student at the ATA and is the Junior Class HOSA vice-president. She is a positive student and a pleasure to be around and teach.

Aynor High School - Trey Capps - 12th grade
He was nominated by his guidance counselor, Stephanie Byrdic and his teacher, Patsy Windham.

Trey Capps is an exceptional young man who personifies what is good in this world. He has worked hard to overcome obstacles and has used his experiences to help others going through difficult times. In the fall of 2007, Trey’s mother lost her battle with cancer.  While Trey and his father were in Virginia for his mother's funeral, his best friend Zeke was killed in an automobile accident. Trey’s strength has never faltered.  When other students think they just can’t handle one more thing, they look at Trey, and they press on.

Carolina Forest High - Chris Fletcher - 12th grade
He was nominated by his guidance counselor, Pam Bosselait. 

Chris has had a congenital heart condition that has caused him to have many open-heart surgeries since his birth. Chris also suffers from scoliosis, and has had surgeries to correct spinal abnormalities. Despite the physical hardships that Chris has endured, he has continued to attend school regularly and has down-played his health issues so that he can blend in with the other students. He has even played varsity tennis, and enjoys the activity and social aspect of being a team member. Chris meets and exceeds the definition of a REEL Kid.  He has overcome many physical hardships but continues to look forward to each day and the contributions he can make.

Conway High School - William Fallaw - 12th grade
He was nominated by his guidance counselor, Jerrlyn Gaghum.

William Fallaw is an exceptional student who always goes above and beyond to be a model citizen. He lost his mother to cancer and rather than let that be an obstacle in his life, he has chosen to use the tragedy as a source of inspiration to be the best person he can be. In his writing about his mother’s death and its impact on his life it was outstanding and poignant. William ranks #2 in his class of 318 and is currently enrolled in Honors and AP Classes where he is excelling.

Green Sea Floyds High - Rakeem Dixon - 9th grade
He was nominated by his teacher, Wayne Williamson.

Rakeem Dixon was born with a kidney disease that was identified before birth. He goes to dialysis 3 x weekly but that does not slow him down.  He participated in Little League. He has been assisting the Green Sea Floyds High School football and basketball teams for the past 2 years. Rakeem also plays the drums in his Church. He is always cheerful and willing to help others. His parents say they thank God for Rakeem through the good and bad times. He is a blessing to everyone.

Loris High School - Ethan Grainger - 11th grade
He was nominated by his teacher, Danny McPherson. 

No one exhibits the spirit of perseverance more than Ethan! In December 2007, his father was killed in a work-related accident. In June 2009, his mother was killed in a serious automobile accident. The spirit of his parents, the support of family and friends, and his personal fortitude have sustained and strengthened him. Ethan is respectful, kind, considerate, and full of life.  Ethan is ranked number one in his junior class.  He excells in honors and Advanced Placement courses and is active in athletics. Adults and students alike are encouraged and strengthened by Ethan’s resilience and determination.  Ethan remains committed for himself, for his future, for the memory of his mother and father! 

Ethan is the winner of the 2010 Meagan Conner Award, REEL Kids' highest honor.

Myrtle Beach High - Dennis Hamilton - 11th grade
He was nominated by his teacher, Casey Beck. 

Dennis Hamilton is a very hard-working, reliable, and kind student. Dennis suffers from a major specific learning disability. However, he is in the general education program with support and passed his HSAP exit exams last year which is needed to earn a high school diploma. He maintains honor roll grades in all of his classes.  Further, Dennis has volunteered his time to be the varsity manager for the football, basketball, and baseball teams for the past two years. He is also an officer in the NJROTC program. Dennis' humility and determination are unmatched.

North Myrtle Beach High - Chris Roesch - 11th grade
He was nominated by his teacher, Liz Trainor.

Chris Roesch is a member of the Marching Band, playing the mallet instruments. Chris strives for excellence in all that he does, and holds himself to a high standard. Chris does not mention or draw attention to the fact that he suffers from physical and learning disabilities which challenge him daily. Because of his physical challenges, he is often not able to attend school and works with a tutor. Chris' overwhelming determination and positive attitude are an example to both teachers and peers.

Socastee High School - Flo Foriest - 10th grade
She was nominated by her guidance counselor, Eva Gaddy.

Flo Foriest embodies the description "extraordinary." Although an early 2009 accident in which she was hit by a truck while crossing the road home after school left her broken bones, her spirit is anything but broken. She chooses to use her experience not as a crutch but rather as a stepping stone to become a well rounded, thoughtful young woman. Flo is kind, patient, and gentle to all she meets and is a role model for her peers. She is a valuable member of any team or group to which she belongs. Flo embraces each day as the chance to learn, grow, and lead.