MHS junior Myles Smith was called into the office for a brief word with principal Shannon Fierro. 

“You won,” she said.

“Really, I won?” Smith said. “What did I win?”

On April 22, Smith and MHS junior Kenya Collins received recognition for African American achievement and academic excellence in Alameda County from the African American Regional Educational Alliances (AAREA), Fierro said.

“It was very empowering,” Collins said. “Being acknowledged for something you thought was so normal and small felt really good.”

According to the AAREA, 500 students of color from Alameda County received awards, ranging from fifth grade to high school seniors. To meet the requirements, students had to meet and maintain a minimum of a 3.5 GPA through the first semester of the 2017-2018 school year, and be an exemplary leader within their community. 

“The criteria asked for juniors or seniors who exemplified academic promise and have the qualities we respect and hope for in our graduates,” Fierro said.

Fierro said PHS principal Adam Littlefield forwarded her the award, and after compiling a list of students who met the academic requirements, the staff decided to nominate Kenya and Myles. 

“I’m super proud of them, and I know it’s the first of many awards they will win,” Fierro said.

The awards ceremony held at Chabot College celebrated African American culture, featuring local dancers, singers, and a drumline, Collins said. 

“The awards ceremony was probably what made [the experience] so great,” Smith said. “Everyone there was so welcoming.”

Smith said the energy was incredibly uplifting. Everyone there was beaming, and past recipients came to show their support and usher in the next generation of award winners.

“With big awards, people think there’s no point [in trying] because there’s no way they’re going to win,” Smith said. “But I did win.”

However, the ceremony had more in store for Smith. He was surprised by a visit from his sister whom he was not supposed to see for another six months, he said.

“It was very touching,” Smith said. “I started crying when I saw her.”

Fierro said that these accolades were well deserved, and the two students who received awards were noted as exceptional students as well as leaders by their teachers.

“I think we absolutely nominated and awarded the right people because they continue to be excellent students and excellent role models for their peers, as well as strong leaders and advocates for Millennium,” Fierro said.

MHS social studies teacher Ken Brown said the two students succeed academically because of their curiosity and interest.

“I see them constantly engaging in deep thought about the world around them,” Brown said. 

Smith said his extroverted persona has helped him thrive within his community. Always introducing himself to new people, he can talk to anybody about anything.

Smith said, “Most people around the school year have been telling me I’m a leader, but when I got this award I finally understood what people meant.”

Collins, too has taken up leadership positions at MHS, running for ASB co-president with junior Kristen Seyranian.

“I’ve seen Kenya’s confidence expand,” Brown said. “Her willingness to use her voice over the last three years has grown exponentially.”

In addition, Collins has exemplified her commitment to academic achievement. For her, learning is not composed of grades and scores. She feels the most proud just knowing that she completed a course and understood the material, she said.

“Knowing that I have nephews and nieces who can look up to me and want to accomplish more than I have is a great feeling,” Collins said.