Kinsleigh Purvis, a senior at Gilmer High School, said she feels “honored and blessed” to represent GHS as its STAR (Student Teacher Achievement Recognition) Student for the current school year.
“I was shocked when I found out,” said Purvis. “It was an amazing feeling to be rewarded for all the hard work I’ve put into my education.”
Purvis, who was named the high school’s Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE) STAR Student last week, named Ashley Stover as her STAR Teacher.
Stover, now assistant principal at Ellijay Elementary School, previously taught math at GHS.
“I picked Mrs. Stover because she’s always been very encouraging and supportive,” said Purvis, who took Stover’s honors geometry class her freshman year.
“I was nervous in beginning this new chapter of my life,” she added. “However, Mrs. Stover was always a voice of encouragement which helped me to adjust quickly.”
Purvis said Stover also later helped her as the high school’s AP and dual enrollment program coordinator.
“She helped me schedule classes, and always helped me in finding classes that I would enjoy, learn something by taking and be beneficial for my future. She truly cares about others and wants what’s best for her students,” she added.
Purvis said math has long been her favorite subject.
“I’ve always been fascinated by the ways that numbers and equations can work together to produce an answer. I have also especially enjoyed my science classes,” she said. “However, I truly enjoy all of my classes because I love learning new things. I would like to thank all of my teachers for everything they’ve done for me and preparing me for my future.”
Stover said being chosen as STAR Teacher was unexpected, but she’s honored by the recognition from her former student.
“I’m honored that Kinsleigh feels I have had an impact on her many successes while at Gilmer High School,” Stover said. “The GHS Class of 2022 is a highly competitive class with many students participating in both AP and dual enrollment classes. Kinsleigh’s motivation and self-discipline, in combination with her intellect, have made her into the STAR (Student) she is today.”
To qualify for the STAR Student honor, one must have the highest score on a single SAT test date and be in the top 10 percent or top 10 students of their class based on grade point average.
Purvis earned the accolade for her academic achievement and performance on the SAT. She is the daughter of Steven and Kara Purvis, of Talking Rock.
“We are very proud of Miss Purvis and Mrs. Stover and the academic excellence they’ve exemplified at Gilmer High School,” said Carla Foley, GHS principal.
Purvis said she’s been accepted into the honors program at the University of Georgia. She plans to go to medical school, and hopes to pursue a career in healthcare.
“I am currently considering going into anesthesiology. However, I am not totally set on that specific area,” she added.