On Sunday, Otsego Middle School hosted “An Evening of Excellence,” an honors night to celebrate and recognize the academic achievement of our 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students. Among the student body, 269 students achieved honor roll status, which is defined as a 3.5 grade point average or higher. Among those 269 students, 55 of them maintained perfect 4.0 grade point averages in the 2025-2026 school year. What an accomplishment! 

The event featured a special performance from the OMS Jazz Band, as well as an important award presentation from Principal Mark VanderKlok. 

The Jennings Award is the most prestigious award at Otsego Middle School, and is awarded annually to one boy and one girl from each grade level. The award represents the pinnacle of character, kindness, and respect for yourself and others. The Jennings Rule, posted in every classroom, helps to shape the culture of Otsego Middle School:

“No child shall be made fun of, embarrassed, or humiliated in any way before, during, or after school hours. Each student, no matter how different, will be accorded the respect and dignity which is his or her human right.”

Recipients of this award are nominated by their peers based on the criteria that they consistently exemplify this principle, making our middle school a better place to learn and grow. 

One staff member shared that a Jennings Award recipient is “the kind of student who always looks for the good in others, never judges, and stands up for what is right.” These students do not seek recognition—they simply do what is right because it reflects who they are.

Please join us in congratulating the 2025–2026 Jennings Award winners for their outstanding character and commitment to their community:

6th Grade
Cole Holmes & London Newby (not pictured)

7th Grade
Eric Slater, Aubrey Nobel & Reese Engbers

8th Grade
Stella Matison & Benjamin Arnsman
(pictured left to right)

Congratulations to all, and best wishes to our OMS family for a great end to the school year.