Pyle presented first TDA GROW award
Trinity Standard -

AUSTIN – Trinity High School senior Amy Beth Pyle has been awarded the Texas Department of Agriculture’s inaugural GROW Award. Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples announced Monday that the Gives Recognition for Outstanding Work (GROW) award will be given monthly to Texas middle and high school students who demonstrate leadership and excellence both inside and outside the classroom. "I congratulate Amy Beth Pyle for earning the very first TDA GROW award," Staples said. "The future of our great state rests in the hands of students such as Amy Beth who embody the character and work ethic that will continue to keep Texas at the forefront of today's competitive global economy." Pyle was chosen from more than 100 Texas students for demonstrating leadership in her school activities as well as her commitment to community service. She is vice president of the senior class, a varsity cheerleader, a volleyball player and also is active in her church and her school's science club where she chartered a citywide recycling program. Additionally, Pyle is the president of the Trinity High School FFA and 2010 grand champion lamb and lamb showmanship winner at the Trinity Community Fair Livestock Show. During the 2011 fair, Pyle was crowned as the fair queen and won the reserve champion lamb and lamb showmanship awards. "Amy Beth Pyle is not only a leader in our school, but in our community as well," said Tally Jo Stout, Pyle's ag teacher and cheer coach. "She not only represents excellent leadership, but sets the example for others in our school and community. Amy has volunteered for local organizations that benefit children, the elderly and the less fortunate. “From food and clothing drives to trash pick-ups, Amy displays compassion, thoughtfulness and motivation to accomplish goals that benefit others. Amy Beth is an outstanding leader and will grow to become an amazing adult,” Stout added. Pyle's grade-point average ranks her third in THS’s senior class. Upon graduation, she plans to attend Baylor University. Staples established the GROW award to celebrate outstanding student leaders who demonstrate excellence in either their academic or extracurricular activities. Students can be nominated by community leaders such as teachers, coaches, school administrators, mayors, county judges or anyone else committed to recognizing youth leadership and achievement. To nominate a promising middle or high school student, visit the TDA website at TexasAgriculture.gov. Once nominated, students will need to complete the online application and respond to three short-answer questions. One GROW award winner is chosen monthly. Applications for next month's award are due Nov. 1, 2012.