Senator Avery Lewis Photo Credit: V.I. LEGISLATURE
Senator Avery Lewis has submitted legislation aimed at establishing a rewards system for public school students who demonstrate excellence in academics, athletics, and overall conduct. The initiative seeks to recognize students for their dedication and contributions, both locally and nationally.
“Our students participate in local and national competitions and should be rewarded for their excellence and contributions to national pride,” Mr. Lewis stated. In alignment with this belief, he recognized the top six winners from each district in the recent Spelling Bee competitions. The senator commended the students for their commitment to rigorous preparation and encouraged them to continue striving for success as they advance to the Territorial Spelling Bee on March 20, 2025.
In addition to recognizing academic excellence, Mr. Lewis also congratulated the Barranation Cheerleaders, who secured a National Silver award at the 2025 World High School Cheerleading Competition in Orlando. He expressed admiration for their dedication and teamwork, highlighting their achievements as a source of pride for the Virgin Islands.
The following students were recognized for their outstanding performances in the 2025 District Spelling Bee Competitions:
St. Thomas-St. John District Spelling Bee Winners
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1st Place: Evan Fahie – Lockhart K-8 School
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2nd Place: Harika Jhanawar – All Saints Cathedral
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3rd Place: Oliver Fitch – Homeschool
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4th Place: Cameron Daley – Yvonne Milliner-Bowsky Elementary School
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5th Place: Amera Paul – Calvary Christian Academy
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6th Place: Juelz Michael – New Testament Academy
St. Croix District Spelling Bee Winners
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1st Place: Jahmir Greaux – Eulalie Rivera PreK-8 School
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2nd Place: Rayan Felix – Free Will Baptist School
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3rd Place: Aah'Jahnique Morris – Good Hope Country Day School
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4th Place: Chasidy Pickering – B. Larsen PreK-8 School
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5th Place: Layla Jacobs – St. Patrick Catholic School
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6th Place: Andrew Trotman – Ricardo Richards PreK-6 School
Barranation Cheer Squad Members
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Head Coach: Dana Philogene-Victor
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Assistant Coach: Aniah John
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Team Members: Alia Osborne, Aminah Emanuel, Alyna Richards, Aniyah Williams, Arielle Chery, Aure’ Baptiste, Carilyz Marmolejos, India Ragnauth, Jahilah Carroll, J’Neolise Green, K’Asia O’Brvan, Kavda Baird-Williams, Kavlee Corcino, Kiara Gumbs, K’Layah Parris, K’Taesha Brewster, Kyla Miles, Leiani Byron, Mah’Kaijah Jean, Marley Cassius, Melanie Lewis, Nayelis St. Omer, Ne’zah Barnes, Samyrah Lake, Sa’Nivah Morris, Se’Kaijah Freeman, Sophia Henry, Terrise Mitchell, Zahaira Cromwell, Aamvah Petersen (alternate).
Senator Lewis noted the importance of supporting young achievers and expressed his commitment to engaging with the community on this initiative. “Our students represent us well and are doing big things worldwide. They should be rewarded,” he stated.
The senator welcomed input from constituents and encourages discussions regarding his proposals. Community members interested in sharing their thoughts or learning more about his initiatives can reach out via email at senatoraverylewis@legvi.org or contact his Chief of Staff at apetersen@legvi.org.
