Aynor Elementary School - Ethan Gusman- 5th grade
He was nominated by his teacher, Paula Bryant. 

Ethan Gusman is a kind, polite, and helpful young man. Through circumstances beyond his control, Ethan is not able to live with his biological parents. He has lived with his aunt, uncle, and cousins for almost two years. Not only did Ethan have to face the challenge of adjusting to a new home, he also had to adjust to a new town and a new school. Ethan enjoys outings with his aunt and uncle and loves his cousins as if they were his own siblings. Last year in 4th grade was a transitional year for Ethan in a new school. He struggled with behavioral issues and academics. With his aunt's encouragement and support, Ethan has turned his life around. He is now a thriving 5th grader with excellent behavior and good grades. With all his life challenges and handling them as well as he has, Ethan deserves to receive the HTC REEL Kid Award.

Burgess Elementary - Raul Rodriguez - 4th grade
He was nominated by his teacher, Gillian McColgan.

Raul Rodriguez is a student who has overcome many challenges in the past couple of years. When he first started Burgess in the second grade, he had numerous behavioral and academic problems. It seemed he was always in the principal's office and did not care about anything or anyone. Now, Raul is earning good grades, is a lifeskill leader and has responsibilities he fulfills in the classroom and has made huge academic gains. Raul has had a tremendous turnaround and we are very proud.

Carolina Forest Elementary- Xixi Mockus - 4th grade
She was nominated by her teacher, Tim Zeltwanger.

Xixi Mockus is a fourth grade student who would be best described as a real survivor. She was born in Shenzhen, China and when she was approximately three months old, she was abandoned by her birth parents. While in the orphanage, Xixi had to undergo surgery at the age of three due to a birth defect which later required more medical treatment. Xixi remained in the orphanage until 7 years of age before she blessed her adoptive parents with her presence in November of 2007. In addition to the cultural change, Xixi was also faced with communication challenges since she could not speak or understand any English. Although it’s only been three years since Xixi began her "new life", she fit in quickly as she is quite sociable, affectionate and loving. Xixi demonstrates a deep faith and love for God and thanks Him for her adopted family.

Conway Elementary School - Elizabeth Cribb - 3rd grade
She was nominated by her teacher, Katherine Hendershot.

Elizabeth strives to do her personal best on a daily basis. She always puts forth 100% effort. She is a conscientious student. Elizabeth is a kind and compassionate friend to all of her classmates. She portrays only respect and admiration towards her teachers. Elizabeth is a mature young girl who is a true pleasure to teach in class.

Daisy Elementary School- Malik Sherman - 5th grade
He was nominated by his teacher, Amanda Stevens.

Malik Sherman has struggled with a very difficult and unstable home life. His home has recently been lost due to a fire. Even through these difficult circumstances, he comes to school with a positive attitude, willing to work and to give his personal best. He has currently been provided with a more stable environment by his godmother and he is now on the right path to having a successful future.

Forestbrook Elementary School - J.W. Cauthen - 5th grade
He was nominated by his guidance counselor, Linda Puckett.

After repeating the second grade due to numerous moves, JW Cauthen began to soar both academically and behaviorally. By the fourth grade, he qualified for the Gifted and Talented program and had become a student loved by all his teachers. He is respectful, polite, considerate of others, and a hard worker. When asked what made the difference for him, he replied, “Without my mom, I would be dumb as a rock. She should share this award with me. She gave me discipline when I did something wrong and not all parents do that.” JW loves to play baseball and enjoys many friends. He has a great future ahead of him.

Green Sea Floyds Elementary - Logan Jones - 4th grade
He was nominated by his guidance counselor, Jamie Beth Clark.

In January 2007, Logan, his older brother, and mother were on their way home when his mother’s car ran off the road. Logan’s mom was severely injured and while they waited for help, Logan and his brother watched their mother pass away. In spite of this family trauma, Logan was on the honor roll his entire 3rd grade year and continues to make excellent grades. He has the sweetest spirit and is always the one to make people laugh when they are feeling down. He is a friend to all classmates and always eager to learn.

Homewood Elementary School - Cameron Harrington - 4th grade
He was nominated by his guidance counselor, Debbie Lanier.

Cameron Harrington is a unique young man. He has many challenges that he works to overcome daily in his academics. Although we work to meet his needs in a small classroom setting, he enjoys sharing with everyone how much he is learning in class. He is always pleasant and has learned to carry on a conversation. Many of us take this for granted. He is a young man with a heart and mind eager to learn new things.

Kingston Elementary School - Phillisity McDowell - Kindergarten
She was nominated by her guidance counselor, Hanna Smith.

Lakewood Elementary School - Rashad Geathers - 3rd grade
He was nominated by his teacher, Felicia Reeder.

Rashad Geathers is a remarkable young man. A day never goes by without a smile on his face. He is a light in the life of all of us who are fortunate enough to know and teach him. Rashad’s attitude is one of determination, drive, and perseverance. He always gives his personal best even when faced with the greatest challenges and difficulties. His “I can do it” spirit inspires us daily. When Rashad arrived at Lakewood he was faced with a number of personal challenges. With the support of his loving family, he has faced them all like a “trooper” and overcome them with great success. Anyone who has known Rashad Geathers for any amount of time can tell you he has overcome many barriers. One of those would be the daily battle with a painful blood disorder. This determination and drive has resulted in great strides and gains on Rashad’s part. Rashad is a friendly, outgoing and funny young man. He is a friend to all and makes each and every group he is in memorable.

Loris Elementary School - Jaliyah Black - 1st grade
She was nominated by her teacher, Cara Todd.

Last year, when Jaliyah was in kindergarten her father died suddenly and unexpectedly. Being very close to her father, it was a tragic loss for Jaliyah. Nevertheless, she has persevered and continues to be a star student at school. Jaliyah not only excels in all academic areas, but she also is a great friend. She is someone who can be trusted to always be respectful, responsible, and ready. She is trustworthy and dependable and someone who always strives to do her personal best.

Midland Elementary - Joey Page - 3rd grade
He was nominated by his guidance counselor, Tonya Page.

Whenever we hear that jingle-jangle, rolling sound fill the air in the halls of Midland Elementary School, we can’t help but smile. That sound can only mean that a dark haired, bright eyed, energetic, third grade is coming our way. Joey Page is a child who makes his presence known. Although Joey was born with cerebral palsy which affects his gross and fine motor coordination, he has found his own way of doing things. At age three, Joey’s mother was told she should be prepared for the fact that he would likely never walk, talk, or be a productive learner. One evening Joey crawled over to his Nana and said, “Nana, don’t you worry, I’m going to walk by myself one day”. From that moment on nothing has stopped him. Not only did he start walking with the walker before the wheelchair arrived, he is now walking some on his own without his walker. Joey is talking, making friends, and is becoming a self-sufficient learner in his regular education third grade classroom. Most of all, he has a unique view of the world which is probably one of his biggest accomplishments. Almost nothing comes easy for him, yet he is determined to keep up both physically and academically. He is a child who loves others, loves life, and loves himself just the way he is.

Myrtle Beach Elementary - Deon’Vea Waterman-Heath - 3rd grade
He was nominated by his teacher, Susan Bradham.

Deon’Vea Waterman Heath is a student who has had to deal with unfortunate adversities at a young age. Last year, both of his parents passed away from illnesses within six months of each other. Deon’Vea is now being taken care of by his older sister, Anquette. He missed many school days last year which had an impact on his grade-level achievement. Today Deon’Vea meets each day with confidence, enthusiasm, and a beautiful smile. He is a role model for everyone in our class with a “can do” cheerful attitude about learning. He is moving beyond his losses, making his goals with academic achievement as an honor roll student and good citizen.

Myrtle Beach Intermediate - Kayla Killman - 5th grade
She was nominated by her teacher, Kristin Miraglia.

At a very young age, Kayla Killman was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease. After a long wait, she was finally approved for a kidney transplant which provided her mom and grandmother with hope that Kayla may be able to have a normal childhood again. After the surgery and medications that were required to support the transplant, mom watched Kayla’s entire world shift from having friends and running and playing to having few friends, a body that dramatically changed. She was unable to be a kid and the emotional ups and downs that came with such dramatic changes were hard for the entire family. Since coming to Myrtle Beach Intermediate School, Kayla has made many friends, has shown academic strength and is a continuous ray of light for many of her classmates and even her own teachers. Through all of the medical, social, and personal issues she has had to tackle and is still managing daily, she has found the key to “the bright side”. She is always smiling, being kind to her classmates and occasionally you’ll catch her on the front porch at recess singing like a little songbird. Of course, singing cheerful happy tunes rather than woeful ballads.

Myrtle Beach Primary - Joseph Callahan - Kindergarten
He was nominated by his teacher, Elaine Loftin.

North Myrtle Beach Elementary - Savannah Lewis - 3rd grade
She was nominated by her guidance counselor, Renee Long, and teacher, Michelle Goudelock.

Savannah Lewis is an absolutely incredible child. Even after the recent loss of her mother, Savannah has continued to do her personal best on everything she attempts. She has excelled academically, never allowing her loss to deter her from her goals. Not only is Savannah a gifted learner, she is a true friend. She is thoughtful and self-sacrificing. She has truly flourished this year even while facing tremendous tragedy. Only a courageous child could do such a thing!

North Myrtle Beach Intermediate - Kenley Hardwick - 5th grade
He was nominated by his guidance counselor, Gretta Gore.

When Kenley’s father died at the end of his 4th grade year, his teachers, friends and classmates didn’t think he would return to school for the final days of the year. He surprised us all not only by returning, but also by being our rock in the face of “his” grief! Our condolences were met with pats on the back, and an “it’s okay” response from Kenley. He is a compassionate, protective, brave and talented all-around student. A role model to all students, he always works to the best of his ability, and his energetic nature is guaranteed to lift your spirits. What can be daunting to many of us, he tackles head-on with much determination to achieve his aspirations. Recently, he auditioned for the show “Live to Dance” with his dance team in NYC. They placed 40th from a pool of 3000 dancers! What an accomplishment! Not making the show hasn’t deterred his love for dancing. He continues to practice and has classes five days a week. There is no doubt that his passion for dance, the pride and support he received from his dad along with mom and stepdad, and his desire to help others has allowed him to cope with his father’s death in a healthy balanced manner. NMB Intermediate proudly chooses Kenley as our HTC REEL Kid, an inspiration to others and so deserving of this honor.

North Myrtle Beach Primary - Ashlyn Kunder - 1st grade
She was nominated by her teacher, Louise Euchler.

Ashlyn Kunder is a wonderful role model for our class. She has had a kidney transplant and is required to drink water throughout the day. She is always cheerful and friendly to all of her classmates. She does not let her medical condition interfere with her positive attitude and determination to do her best at school. Ashelyn is a beautiful, sweet child with an enormous heart.

Ocean Bay Elementary - Luis Hernandez - 5th grade
He was nominated by his teacher, Diana Reyes.

Luis Hernandez has been profoundly deaf his whole life and immigrated to this country at a young age. He has always had trouble understanding English and being understood by hearing people, as his primary language is American Sign Language. This year he told me, “Luis makes his own decisions. I’m smart. As I grown up, I will decide myself.” From then on, he has taken infinitely more responsibility for his own academics looking up new words on his own, even motivating others in his class to be better role models.

Palmetto Bays Elementary - Dylan Blanton - 5th grade
He was nominated by his teacher, Sue Snyder.

Born a miracle baby with a disability involving paralysis of the lower extremities and limited use of his arms and hands, Dylan has shown great courage throughout his life. He has faced numerous surgeries, therapies, and body casts. He had a recent hip surgery with other complications but consistently stays positive and never complains. He is a master at finding a positive outcome in any situation. Regardless of the obstacles facing him, he is always doing his personal best. He recently participated in the Special Olympics and won first place in the wheelchair race. He has been a part of the Miracle League baseball team for several years. His favorite position is catcher. Last year, he was chosen as a Shriner’s Kid and gave a speech at a formal dinner in Charleston. Dylan has definitely proven himself a “reel” kid in the face of many obstacles throughout his life. In whatever he faces, he is always doing his personal best and is a positive influence on everyone around him.

Pee Dee Elementary School - Brian Mercer - 5th grade
He was nominated by his teacher, Denise Armour.

Brian Mercer lost his mother two years ago. In the midst of the situation, and additional family changes, Brian has always been very concerned about his grades. Brian is a hard worker and has shown growth in his behavior. He is able to recognize when he might not have made the best choice in a situation, and use that to make better choices in the future. Brian is very protective of his younger sister, Grace, and well-liked by his peers. We have witnessed Brian grow into a fine young man and feel he is most deserving for the REEL Kid award.

Seaside Elementary School - AJ Stashkiw-Risor - 4th grade
He was nominated by his guidance counselor, Nicole Blum.

AJ Stashkiw-Risor continues to prove himself through recent obstacles or extenuating circumstances. AJ shows strength and encouragement with a positive attitude to everyone who surrounds him. AJ was diagnosed with ALL Leukemia last year and is coping with the recent death of his mother. AJ wasn’t in school from November to June last year during treatment at MUSC but continued to excel in academics through homebound services and was promoted to fourth grade. AJ has returned to school this year with a great spirit and ambitious attitude. AJ says chemo therapy makes him weak but the courage he has with love and support from his surroundings makes him achieve the best of his potential each day. MUSC recommended him as a pilot for the day at Charleston Air Force base. He took an adventure on a simulator. He is very proud of this experience. AJ’s personality is amazing! He makes you smile and believe anything is attainable with the right attitude.

Socastee Elementary School - Abby Matthews - 1st grade
She was nominated by her teacher, Pam Butler.

Abby Matthews was born as a small person and has had surgery on her hips. She overcomes obstacles with a smile and her unwavering spirit encourages her peers and adults, as well. Abby leads by example and models the importance of acceptance, without prejudging others. She accepts full responsibility for academic excellence and strives to be the best she can be. She meets each circumstance with a resourceful nature and an “I can do this” attitude.

South Conway Elementary - Briana Williams - 4th grade
She was nominated by her teacher, Denise Williams.

Briana Williams has endured a very difficult family situation with her mother serving time in prison and her parents separating. She is an excellent student; always willing and gives her best in every situation. She is loving, respectful, has a great sense of humor and is always happy to assist others. Briana is a part of the Gifted and Talented program at South Conway Elementary and also enjoys playing softball. Briana is a shining example of an HTC REEL Kid.

St. James Elementary School - Chris Steves - 5th grade
He was nominated by his school counselor, Marie Isom.

Chris Steves is an exemplary student. He strives for excellence at all times. By chance, I learned that he and his brother have been in foster care for the past three years. Knowing his background created an even more profound respect in me for the enthusiasm and excellence he demonstrates everyday. He is kind and respectful to others and a great model for his peers. He is an excellent candidate to be recognized for his facing adversity with integrity.

Waccamaw Elementary School - Kjon Williams - 5th grade
He was nominated by his teacher, Kristen McElroy.

Kjon Williams was born premature and had many health issues. He was in ICU for 11.5 months. After 13 surgeries, a feeding tube for 4.5 years, and other health issues, he continues to smile. He has a kind and caring nature and is always smiling and encouraging others. He is a perfect example of perseverance. Kjon’s parents were told he would never walk or talk, yet he is now an honor roll student. His mother and others believe that God “has a special calling for Kjon”.