The City Schools Icon Awards honor students who lead and inspire their school communities. These outstanding individuals are recognized for their leadership, teamwork, positive attitudes, and excellent attendance—creating environments where learning and collaboration thrive. Each quarter, school staff nominate students who exemplify “Icon” status; nominations are reviewed by a team of district staff.

Congratulations to all City Schools Icons! Thank you for helping to shape our school communities! 

Third-Quarter Icon Award Winners!

City Schools is thrilled to announce the City Schools Icon award third-quarter winners! These exceptional students are celebrated for outstanding leadership, positivity, teamwork, and dedication - making them true “City Schools Icons.” Each quarter, a new group of students is nominated by their schools and celebrated for their positive impact on our school communities, helping to create an environment where learning and growth thrive.

Brissia Lopez-Castro

Brissia Lopez-Castro

Twelfth grader Brissia Lopez-Castro is a dedicated and compassionate leader at Baltimore City College, where she helps foster an inclusive and supportive environment for her peers, particularly Latino students. As a key member of the Somos organization, Brissia helps in organizing and promoting events like dances, Parent Nights, and multilingual support services. Thanks to her efforts, many Latino students at City College feel a strong sense of belonging and connection. Brissia’s commitment to creating a positive school culture makes her an outstanding role model and an invaluable asset to her school community.

Simyja Redd

Simyja Redd

Eighth grader Simyja Redd of The Belair-Edison School is an exceptional scholar who consistently demonstrates initiative and commitment to helping others. Whether assisting students or staff, Simyja is always ready to make Belair-Edison a better place. Her dedication is reflected in the many community service hours she has earned by completing various tasks around the school. Simyja is known for her kindness and willingness to lend a hand, from delivering loaner shirts to students in need every day to mentoring younger students. She is a self-starter who leads by example, inspiring everyone around her with her helpful spirit and positive attitude.

Nalani Jenkins-EL

Nalani Jenkins-EL

Second grader Nalani Jenkins-EL of Holabird Academy is a kind and determined student who always helps her classmates when they need assistance, making everyone feel included. At recess, she takes the initiative to organize fun activities and encourages her friends to work together as a team. Nalani’s positive attitude and willingness to help others create a friendly and supportive atmosphere at Holabird Academy, making her a shining example of leadership and kindness in her school community.

Khyrie Bryant

Khyrie Bryant

Fifth grader Khyrie Bryant of Matthew A. Henson Elementary School is exceptionally kind to everyone around him. He works hard academically and always strives to be his best self. Whether it’s helping a friend with their schoolwork or offering a kind word, Khyrie’s generosity and strong work ethic make him an outstanding student and role model. He embodies the spirit of kindness and perseverance that helps make Matthew A. Henson Elementary a better place for everyone.

Eva Byfield

Eva Byfield

Eighth grader Eva Byfield of Francis Scott Key Elementary/Middle School, consistently puts forth strong effort in all of her academic areas. Even when faced with challenging tasks, Eva remains committed to her work and encourages her peers to do the same. As the Student Government Association (SGA) president, she exemplifies leadership by supporting her peers both academically and socially, especially in encouraging them to advocate for themselves. She continually strives to improve herself, her school, and her community through every interaction, serving as a shining example of the positive impact a student can have on their school.

Dhruvan Kuma

Dhruvan Kumar

Pre-K student Dhruvan Kuma of Barclay Elementary/Middle School is a bright and energetic Pre-K student who brings joy and positivity to the Barclay school family every day. With his infectious smile and enthusiasm, Dhruvan lights up the school building each morning. He is incredibly supportive of his peers and helps guide his friends in learning and understanding words and letters. He also uplifts his teachers with his kind spirit, making him a beloved member of the school community.

2024-2025 Second Quarter Winners:

Gabriel Carr

Gabriel Carr

Tenth grader Gabriel Carr makes a positive impact on his school community every day with his attitude and willingness to help others. Whether holding doors, carrying packages for teachers, or mediating peer conflicts, Gabriel’s “can-do” spirit is cherished at ConneXions. 

Kaiden Hill

Kaiden Hill

Kaiden Hill, Class of 2025 President at Carver Vocational-Technical High School, is dedicated to supporting struggling classmates and helping them succeed. She manages Peer Forward’s social media to connect students with scholarships. She is an apprentice at “Requity,” leads as captain of the majorette squad, and competes on the track/field and volleyball teams.

Terence Hooks

Terence Hooks

Twelfth grader Terence Hooks is a dedicated student with self-discipline, excellent student conduct, and a heart of gold. Committed to the success of his school community, he arrives every morning at 6 a.m. to set up signs and cones for buses and assist with anything needed to improve the school. 

Abrielle McCoy

Abrielle McCoy

Seventh grader Abrielle McCoy, one of the top runners in the Baltimore City Cross Country league, made an extraordinary choice at the championship meet. While neck and neck for first place, she noticed two younger runners who were lost and in tears. Abby gave up her chance at the title to help them, sacrificing a medal to ensure their safety. This is just one example of her selflessness and willingness to help others. 

Icon

Antwan Young

Antwan Young

Ninth grader Antwan Young, a generous and considerate student at Baltimore City College, is always ready to help his peers. With an emotionally intelligent focus on inclusivity, he ensures his classmates feel welcomed and valued. Antwan’s care and compassion helps build a positive school climate that serves as an example for others. 

2024-2025 First Quarter Winners:

Yendri Lora Hiraldo

Yendri consistently strives to improve himself while also looking out for others. As a dedicated leader in the school, he takes his responsibilities seriously, earning the respect and admiration of his peers.

Tajae Holloway

Tajae inspires her peers to explore new opportunities through performances like The Purple Tape and the Black Woman Genius Monologues. As president of the Student Government, she fosters community engagement and encourages classmates to get involved. She also achieves honor roll status most semesters.

Patrick Merrick

Patrick is driven by strong values and consistently goes out of his way to support his peers and teachers. His acts of kindness positively impact the school community and meaningfully influence those around him.

Jaleyah Walker

JaLeyah is a leader who encourages her peers to pursue success together. She participated in the W.E.B. Du Bois Accelerated Learning Program at Princeton University and is actively involved in the Student Government Association, NextGen Scholar, and Swagila STEM programs.