On the morning of Thursday, June 11, 2026, Donges Bay Elementary School hosted its annual Flag Lowering Ceremony, highlighted by the presentation of the prestigious Hackett Memorial Award. Established in 2007 by school staff and the Hackett family, the award honors the enduring legacy of former students Maggie and Keegan Hackett. It recognizes a fifth-grade student who goes above and beyond to show exceptional kindness, compassion, and inclusivity toward their peers. As this year's recipient, Belle Sievers received an Amazon gift card, and her name will be permanently displayed on the school lobby's memorial plaque and engraved on a brick along the courtyard's memorial garden path.

Colleen Avila, Donges Bay teacher and award facilitator, shared beautifully compiled reflections from the school staff regarding Belle’s profound impact on the campus. "This student is a true leader with a moral compass well beyond their years," Avila shared. "An interaction with them is an instant day brightener, thanks to the genuine warmth and kindness they extend to everyone... She is a great listener, a fantastic role model, and an amazing friend."

Homestead High School is proud to announce that senior Siddharth Kosaraju has been awarded a National Merit $2,500 Scholarship in the prestigious 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program. 

Siddharth was chosen from a highly competitive talent pool of more than 15,000 outstanding Finalists nationwide. Winners in each state are judged by a committee of college admissions officers and high school counselors to have the strongest combination of academic accomplishments, skills, and potential for success in rigorous college studies. The selection process evaluates the student’s academic record, standardized test scores, leadership contributions, a personal essay, and a high school recommendation.