131 Agawam Seniors Earn Top Academic Award

Kamiyah Ward walked into Agawam High School as a freshman thinking her grades weren't good enough. Last week, she stood on stage with 131 classmates to prove herself wrong.

The Agawam, Massachusetts seniors received the Academic A award for maintaining at least a 3.0 GPA throughout all four years of high school. That's 52% of the entire graduating class of 2026.

"This award is important to me because starting in my freshman year, I focused in more on my goals," Ward said. The determination transformed her into the confident student heading to the University of Connecticut this fall to study nursing.

The Academic A was created in 1999 by then School Committee member Susan Pettazzoni, who wanted academics celebrated the same way sports achievements are. Students receive a certificate and a large white "A" trimmed in orange with a yellow lamp of knowledge.

Ward believes the recognition matters deeply. "It gives recognition to students who felt like they weren't good enough or weren't smart enough," she said. "It shows them that they really were, and that their hard work paid off."

Classmate Carlina Calabrese, who's considering UConn or Penn State for business or finance, said getting recognized for academic pride felt meaningful. "I was hoping I would get the award. I was a little surprised, but I was happy that I got it."

Why This Inspires

School Superintendent Sheila Martin credits the growing number of award recipients to students, teachers, administrators, and families who stress academic excellence together. Principal Jim Blain reminded families that beyond grades, these students contribute daily to clubs, athletics, band, music, theater, and countless other activities.

The March 24 ceremony marked one of the last times most of the class will gather before graduation. Ward described it as "very bittersweet" to see classmates she's known since elementary school preparing for different paths.

After receiving their awards, students posed for photos grouped by the elementary schools they attended, symbolizing their full circle of learning in Agawam. City councilors and School Committee members congratulated each senior individually on stage.

Agawam remains the only school district with this unique award, but Ward thinks that should change. "I think other school districts should do it as well."