October 26, 2023
HAHIRA — Valwood School inducted its second class of students into the Juan Jose Arevalo Chapter (est. 2023) of the Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (SHH) — the Spanish Honor Society. The ceremony took place on Valwood’s campus on Oct. 16.
To be eligible for membership in the SHH, students must be actively enrolled in an upper-level Spanish class (Spanish III or higher), have a cumulative Spanish average of 90 or higher, and must demonstrate character, leadership, honesty, and service.
Brian Crouch, a Valwood Spanish teacher and the society’s advisor, said, “I am thrilled that our school celebrates students who excel in their Spanish classes. I have truly enjoyed seeing the growth of our Spanish program and the hard work the students here today have put into their Spanish lessons.”
This year’s inductees are Berkley Burns, Olivia Brooks, Mackenzie Collins, Caylee Collins, James Godbee, Thomas Griner, Morgan Hamm, Isabella Holloway, Conner Hutto, Emma Shapard, Bella Shaw, Lawrence Smith, Bennett Tyrone, Olivia Wainright, John Laurent Dean, Alberto Garcia, Lauren Gee, Alex Gee, Hayes Griffin, David Griffin, Murphy Johnson, Samuel Jordan, Michael Matchett, Samantha McQuitty, Mills Moorman, Grant Moss, Christabel Ofori, Anabella Paulk, Hudson Paylo, Sienna Persaud, Craig Shapiro, Gracie Smith, Dalton Smith, Hali Thomas, Hannah Ward, Wyatt Wolford, and Wren Woodall.
After students received their membership certificates, Crouch presented three awards.
The first award was the Premio de Servicio, an award given to a graduating member who has shown their commitment to the service of others in line with their dedication to the Spanish language program. This award is embodied in an individual who serves beyond the requirement set out by the Sociedad Honoria Hispanica and who puts their Spanish skills to practical use. This year’s recipient was Connor Hutto.
The second award was the Premio de Excelencia, an award given to graduating members who have shown excellence within the classroom and an exceptional commitment to the Spanish language. These individuals have distinguished themselves in their acquisition and study of the language. The recipients were Ben Tyrone and Olivia Wainright.
The final award was the Premio de Honor, this award is given to a graduating senior who not only excels in the classroom but distinguishes themselves in their assistance to the Spanish language program. This award is presented to a student who demonstrates exceptional strength of character and integrity both in the classroom and in the community. This year’s recipient was James Godbee.
“My hope is for our students to truly understand the value of speaking more than one language,” Crouch said.
