Alex Sims, a welding student at Ross Collins Career and Technical Center, was honored by the Mississippi Construction Education Foundation as a student of the month for the state’s south-central region.

Praised by instructors for his discipline and strong work ethic, Sims demonstrates a passion for knowledge through his hands-on learning style. He recently completed a job shadow program through which he earned a job opportunity that begins upon graduation.

“We congratulate Alex for earning student of the month honors and for being an excellent representative of high school career tech programs in Mississippi,” Mike Barkett, MCEF president, said in a statement. “We’re proud of our students of the month for helping ensure our state has a highly skilled workforce to support the state’s growing construction and manufacturing industries.”

Students of the month are selected from MCEF’s four districts based on grades, attendance, discipline in class, outstanding achievements, leadership abilities, and post-graduation plans. All will compete for the student of the year honors at the foundation’s annual awards program in May.

Meridian airman graduates 

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Santonio S. Portis Jr. graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.

He completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. Airmen who complete basic training also earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Portis is the son of Mary A. Rowry and Santonio Portis Sr. of Meridian and is a 2010 graduate of Meridian High School. 

Cheryl Owens writes the Neighbors column for The Meridian Star. Submit items to cowens@themeridianstar.com.