Nominations being accepted for annual Mayor’s Youth Achievement Award in Everett

Published 11:28 pm Monday, February 11, 2008

EVERETT — Good grades and athletic ability earn points for candidates of the annual Mayor’s Youth Achievement Award.

Unlike similar awards, the mayor’s youth award, now in its 18th year, also gives credit to young people who have shown perseverance in the face of adversity.

A student who made the honor roll while struggling with brain cancer, a young girl from Russia learning to master English growing up in a single-­parent home after her father died, and a teenager who cared for her ailing grandmother with Alzheimer’s disease are a small sampling of past winners.

“For this particular award, it’s not just about your GPA,” said Everett spokeswoman Kate Reardon. “You get it because you become a well-rounded person. Sometimes people are well rounded because they’ve overcome challenges in their life.”

Nominations are being accepted through March 14.

Anyone can nominate a student ages 13 to 20 who lives or attends public or private school in Everett. Home-schooled students are also eligible.

The awards recognize those who have distinguished themselves in community service, politics, arts and entertainment, academics, athletics, or citizenship or who have overcome obstacles.

Mayor Ray Stephanson said Everett is fortunate to have many outstanding young people who provide hope for the future.

“Most people know a deserving youth,” he said. “I encourage you to honor those outstanding young people for their contributions to our community.”

David Chircop: 425-339-3429 or dchircop@heraldnet.com.