As a district, Niles Community Schools regularly celebrates the achievements of our youth as they travel through their educational journey.

We believe it is important to recognize and honor their hard work, determination and passion for all that they have achieved. It is equally important, as a community, to demonstrate appreciation for a job well done to help reinforce the importance of commitment and hard work as our students continually strive for success.

It is with tremendous pride that I call attention to several areas where our students have recently achieved great success.

Our Science Olympiad teams finished fourth in regional competition at the high school level, and third at the middle school level. Our high school team was awarded first place in material science and another first place in forensic science, while our Ring Lardner team qualified for state based on their overall performance.

Students in our Future Farmers of America program took first place at the state semifinals. Our Business Professionals of America team qualified for the state competition and will be advancing one member to the nationals in three events.

These are just a few examples of how our students are showcasing their talents, growing as leaders and proudly representing the Niles community.

Speaking of pride, our band program is growing and showing off their skills across many venues.

The Niles High School band received the highest rating possible (superior) at MSBOA’s District Band and Orchestra competition. Despite being held to a higher standard at last week’s state competition, the group scored another superior rating.

We can continue to expect great things from our band in the coming years as our seventh- and eighth-grade bands also received high ratings at the district festival this year.

Although there are many more sources of pride I could speak to, the shared emphasis on success in extracurricular activities and the classroom is showcased by our Viking wrestling team.

As many of you are aware, our Niles High School wrestling team had an extremely successful year on the mats. They also excelled in the classroom and were recognized by the Michigan Wrestling Association for earning Academic All-State Honors for the 2017 season by ranking fourth in the state in academic performance.

As you can see, our students continue to achieve great things, and it is a testament to the support of our parents, community members, teachers and all of the individuals within our school family who make it possible for our students to perform their best.

Nearly every one of our school sponsored student clubs or programs require community service. If you see Niles High School students out raking leaves, picking up trash or collecting charitable items, please tell them that you have heard great things about them.

Never underestimate the impact your recognition and encouragement can have on that young person.

We have much to be proud of within our schools and across the Niles community. I thank you for your continued support and unwavering dedication to our children.

Go Vikings!

Dr. Dan Applegate is the superintendent of Niles Community Schools.