BUNNELL, Fla. — On Jan. 15, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office presented Sheriff Rick Staly’s “Great Kid” Award to three exceptional students at Flagler County schools. Investigative Services Division Chief Agustin Rodriguez, Youth Services Section Commander Jennifer Nawrocki, and School Resource Unit Sergeant Shane Meehan visited the schools to present the awards for December 2025 alongside school resource deputies.
The “Great Kid” Awards are presented each month during the school year to three students — one each in the elementary, middle, and high school levels — who respect their peers, help others, work hard in academics, and represent themselves and their school well. The recipients are nominated by SRDs and school employees.
“We’re pleased to continue to recognize our county’s students who go above and beyond,” said Sheriff Staly. “These students excel academically, take initiative, and make their schools a better place. They have bright futures and are well-deserving of recognition.”
Bodhi Rivers, a second grader at Belle Terre Elementary School, received the elementary school-level award for the kindness and respect to others that he displays on a daily basis. According to the SRDs and teachers who nominated him, Rivers “is a hardworking, respectful, and caring student that all enjoy being around. He strives for the best, always willing to help anyone, and embodies the skills and qualities of a true leader. He makes choices in his life that will serve him well into his future. Bodhi is truly an exceptional student and role model for others to follow and is very deserving of this award!”
Elizabeth Hardcastle, a sixth grader at First Baptist Christian Academy, received the middle school-level award because she is academically exceptional and is an outstanding example of what it means to be an excellent student and a compassionate member of her school’s community. According to those who nominated her, Hardcastle “consistently strives for excellence, setting a high standard of achievement for her peers. She demonstrates an incredible spirit of kindness and empathy, showing genuine care and concern for others and always supporting her classmates. Her willingness to lend a hand and volunteer wherever needed reflects her generous heart and servant leadership.” They also noted that Hardcastle took the initiative to start a school newspaper, providing her peers with a creative platform to share ideas and stories. “Her shining example inspires others to get involved. Humble and joyful, Elizabeth brings happiness to everyone around her. She makes our school a better place each and every day. We are proud to honor Elizabeth Hardcastle for her academic excellence, compassion, leadership, and the joy she spreads throughout our community.”
Ella Forbes, a sophomore at Matanzas High School, received the high school-level award because she is an exceptional student and leader who exemplifies dedication, talent, and school spirit. According to the SRDs and teachers who nominated her, Forbes “maintains an impressive 4.4 GPA, balancing academic excellence with a wide range of extracurricular activities. She serves as the goalkeeper for both her high school and club soccer teams, demonstrating teamwork, perseverance, and leadership on and off the field. She also participates in flag football, plays the acoustic guitar, and contributes to her school community through her active involvement in Student Government Association. Ella’s commitment, positive attitude, and drive to succeed make her a truly outstanding role model and a deserving candidate for a Great Kid Award!”
