The Brittany Waterhouse Power of Perseverance Award was presented at Oxford Hills Middle School for the first time this year. From left are Tom and Lisa Christman, parents, Brittany and Oxford Hills Middle School Assistant Principal Troy Eastman.

Waterhouse award given for first time

PARIS – The Oxford Hills Middle School Student Council has announced the first Brittany Waterhouse Power of Perseverance Award to be presented to a student at the middle school who has overcome an emotional or physical hardship while at the school.

The recipient was Brian Champion, who ran the mile in 8 minutes and 25 seconds at the spring Special Olympics.

The award was made in honor of Brittany, an outgoing eighth-grade student, who has had to endure painful and debilitating spinal surgery over the past two years. Brittany has handled the pain and debilitation with courage and strength and has been an inspiration to students and faculty alike. She always presents a warm smile and is more concerned with the health and happiness of others, rather than her own hardships.

A plaque with Brittany’s name and picture on it will be hung in the hallways at the middle school, and each year, a student will be selected to receive the award at the eighth-grade closing ceremony. The recipient’s name will be engraved on the plaque.