Commissioner Miller Honors Weston Reynolds of Huntington Middle School with ‘GROW’ Award (1/15/2015)

AUSTIN – Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller today honored Weston Reynolds, an eighth grade student from Huntington Middle School in Huntington, as the winner of the Texas Department of Agriculture’s (TDA) monthly GROW award. The award Gives Recognition for Outstanding Work to middle and high school students who demonstrate leadership and excellence inside and outside the classroom.

“I want to tip my hat to Weston for earning this month’s GROW award,” Commissioner Miller said. “Thanks to young leaders like Weston the future of Texas looks brighter than ever. I couldn’t be more proud to honor Weston, as he symbolizes everything I look for in a great leader — a strong work ethic, dedication to community and family, and a can-do attitude.”

Weston was chosen from hundreds of Texas students for demonstrating leadership in his school activities and his commitment to community service. Weston is a leader among his peers and valued as an asset in everything he does.

Weston is an honor roll student and member of the Student Council. He is an active participant in UIL competitions, serving on numerous UIL Academic teams including the Ready Writing, Impromptu Speaking, Number Sense, Science and Social Studies teams.

Additionally, Weston is involved in athletics as a member of his school’s basketball team. He voluntarily worked alongside teachers during summer school to tutor fellow students who were in danger of failing. His teachers acknowledged his dedication to helping his peers even during a time when most students are simply enjoying their summer break.

“Both in the classroom and out, Weston sets the bar high and works to attain the apex of all endeavors,” said Robbie Hines, a language arts teacher at Huntington Middle School. “He is a straight A student who is highly conscientious of his work and will not settle for anything less than his best.”

Outside the classroom, Weston has been an active member of 4-H for five years. During this time, he has held several officer positions including historian/reporter and second vice president. He has attended numerous leadership camps and conferences through 4-H. He also has become a master in the show ring, winning more than 50 awards for his work in 4-H. Awards include Junior and Intermediate Showmanship awards, Grand Champion Steer and Heifer titles, Best of Show and that’s just to name a few.

“I cannot express how indulged and honored I am to receive this award,” Weston said. “I truly appreciate the support of my teachers and parents. Without their assistance, I would not be situated where I am today. Excluding the aid of my mentors, I have invariably tried to do my best and to never give up, no matter how challenging the task may be. I immensely abide by that and plan to do so for the many years to come.”

Weston is truly a gem at Huntington Middle School. His future looks bright, as he plans to take classes for college credit in high school and hopes to attend Yale University to obtain his law degree. Ultimately, Weston has his sights set on the U.S. Senate, where he hopes to one day represent and champion for America’s farmers and ranchers.

TDA received multiple submissions to recognize Weston for his accomplishments with the GROW award. Teachers from Huntington Middle School who have submitted nominations for Weston include Robbie Hines, Rebecca Haverland and Paula Korn.

For more on Weston’s accomplishments, click here. The Texas Department of Agriculture established the GROW award to celebrate outstanding student leaders who demonstrate excellence in either their academic or extracurricular activities. Students can be nominated by community leaders such as teachers, coaches, school administrators, mayors, county judges or anyone else committed to recognizing youth leadership and achievement.

To nominate a promising middle or high school student, visit TDA’s website at TexasAgriculture.gov. One GROW award winner is chosen monthly. Nominations for next month’s award are due Feb. 1, 2015.