By Paige Nash

Fifth grader Ada Murphy was named Central Elementary’s Student of the Year this past November. She has now upgraded that honor to Webster Parish Student of the Year.  

Ada was ecstatic to be chosen. She said, “Mr. Lee pulled me out of lunch and told me I did it. They let me go to the office to call my mom. I was about to cry tears of joy and had a smile on my face the rest of the day.” 

The competition included fifth-grade students chosen from the individual Webster Parish schools.  

Each participant was asked to complete two essays which included one describing themselves and another about their stance on whether they believe kids are too attached to technology. They also complete an interview and portfolio with information such as the student’s overall grade performance, conduct scores, club involvement and extracurricular activities.

Ada’s mother Lauren Phillips could not be prouder of her daughter and all her accomplishments.  

“Proud is an understatement. This girl has worked so hard and loves school. She is tough, kind, has so much empathy, passionate, hardworking, talented and smart,” said Phillips. “This year has had a lot of ups and downs, but she always pushes through hard things. The way she handles life is inspiring to me. I love her and can’t wait to see what she does in the future.  

Along with being named Student of the Year, Ada also participates in competitive dance at Cydni’s School of Dance in Minden. She has won a handful of scholarships at various dance conventions across multiple states. She is also loyally involved in her church, Minden Presbyterian of Minden and enjoys playing the piano, theatre and spending her summers at Camp Ozark in Arkansas.

The Webster Parish School Board will be holding a ceremony in May acknowledging Ada in her endeavors.