CENTRAL PEP RALLY HONORS STUDENTS

More than half of Cape Girardeau Central High School students were recognized Wednesday for excellence in academics and attendance during the third annual Academic Pep Rally.

Principal Randie Fidler said the event is held to let students know good performance in school can be fun and rewarding.

"So many times students don't want to do well because they are embarrassed when they are recognized," said Fidler. "We just want them to know you shouldn't be embarrassed because of how successful you are."

About 38 percent of all sophomores, juniors and seniors were recognized for their inclusion on academic honor rolls during the first semester. About 60 percent of the total student body was recognized for perfect attendance and academic and other achievements.

Honorees included scholar musicians, scholar athletes and performing arts scholars. Several students were recognized for winning writing and other competitions. Students who have signed with a branch of the armed forces were also recognized.

A number of teachers were honored as grant writers and new staff members.

High achievers in the senior class received special recognition. Nora Renka was recognized for being selected a National Merit Scholar, and Erik Morse and Boyne Park were honored for their selections as National Merit Commended Scholars. Nineteen students, just over 6 percent of the graduating class, were eligible to become Missouri Bright Flight Scholars because they had composite scores of at least 30 on the ACT college entrance exam.

"I know they look forward to the Academic Pep Rally because they like trying to figure out what I'm going to do next," said teacher and organizer Julia Jorgensen. "I don't know if they work harder because of the assembly, but they do know if they excel they will be recognized."

Jorgensen is the faculty sponsor of the Renaissance Club, which sponsored the event. Renaissance is a national organization that works to raise academic performance and school spirit. The club is supported by corporate and individual sponsors, she said. Sponsors donated numerous gifts, including monetary awards, mouse pads and key chains, which were presented during the rally.

Neil Totton, a senior and member of Renaissance, said the event is special because all students get to participate.

"You get to laugh and see the games, but even if you don't get recognized you get to see your friends being recognized," he said. "It's my last one, so it's special. I think it's great, and I hope they never stop doing it."