FCSO Presents Great Kid Awards for February 2026
BUNNELL, Fla. — Sheriff Rick Staly and the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office are proud to announce the recipients of the Sheriff’s “Great Kid” Award for February 2026. Chief Deputy Joe Barile, Investigative Services Division Chief Agustin “Augie” Rodriguez, Youth Services Section Commander Jennifer Nawrocki, and School Resource Unit Sergeant Shane Meehan presented the awards, alongside school resource deputies and school officials, to three exceptional students at Flagler County schools.
“It’s great to be able to recognize these students who are models to their peers,” said Sheriff Staly. “They excel both in and out of the classroom, and they are all very well-deserving of this award.”
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.
Violeta Valencia, a fifth grader at Wadsworth Elementary School, was awarded the elementary school-level award. According to the SRD and teachers at Valencia’s school, she was recognized for “consistently demonstrating exceptional role model qualities that make her an outstanding young individual. She is a dedicated safety patrol officer & participates in other school activities. She is always pleasant and welcoming, making everyone around her feel at ease. Her helpful nature is inspiring, and she’s always willing to lend a hand, supporting other students when needed. Violeta has strong leadership qualities, takes initiative and motivates others leading by example. She’s a true asset to her community and deserving of this award.”
Violet Valencia receives Sheriff Rick Staly’s “Great Kid” Award for February 2026.
Alina Smalls, a seventh grader at Buddy Taylor Middle School, received the middle school-level award. According to those who nominated her, Smalls is a “respectful student who consistently demonstrates good manners and a positive attitude. She engages appropriately with staff and peers, treating others with kindness and consideration and is a wonderful role model. Alina puts forth strong effort in her work and always tries her best, making her a positive presence in the school environment. We are proud to recognize Alina as a valued member of the BTMS family!”
Alina Smalls receives Sheriff Rick Staly’s “Great Kid” Award for February 2026.
Kevin Shanahan, an 11th grader at Matanzas High School, received the high school-level award. Shanahan reportedly recently found a wallet on campus that contained both cash and identification, and he immediately turned it in to be returned to its rightful owner. According to the SRDs and teachers who nominated him, Shanahan’s actions “reflected a high level of integrity, honesty, and personal responsibility. Kevin did the right thing without hesitation which speaks volumes about his character. We are incredibly proud of the stand-up choices Kevin demonstrated with this gesture. His actions have not gone unnoticed as he represented himself & his family extremely well. He is a young man who understands the importance of doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.”
Kevin Shanahan receives Sheriff Rick Staly’s “Great Kid” Award for February 2026.
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