A senior who is the first person in her family to graduate from high school, a teenage mother, and a student who understands the trials and tribulations of foster care were among 45 young people recognized at Helena Education’s Celebration of Excellence Monday night.

About half the students were honored at the event for the obstacles they’ve overcome to achieve their high school diplomas, while the other half were recognized for their academic abilities. But perhaps the people most celebrated were the teachers each student selected for being the most influential educator throughout their schooling.

Read the full story in the Independent Record and view photos and more information from this year's celebration.

Liz Hartley (Helena High) -- A collection of poems
Elena Hodges (Helena High) – A collection of poems

Expository Writing:

Kristen Ingman (Helena High) -- Love Poem with Toast
Nicole Lorass (Helena High) – How Much is a Text Message Really Worth?

Possibly nothing is more rewarding for a teacher than a student paying tribute to his or her efforts.

The Helena Education Foundation helps students make such recognitions with its Celebration of Excellence award.

On the basis of exceptional academics and other achievements, HEF selects area high school seniors who are then asked to pick an educator who most affected their lives. The students and their selected teachers are honored at a dinner banquet in May.

Helena Education Foundation Executive Director Lisa Cordingley said delivering the nominations is the best part about her job.

“I get to see students reward teachers in a way that may be the most significant event in their professional life,” she said. “I get to be the messenger.”

Read the full story in the Independent Record or the full list of students and educators.