The Putnam County School District proudly recognizes nine outstanding high school students who have earned the designation of New Worlds Scholar for the 2025-2026 school year.
Through Florida's R.A.I.S.E. High School Tutoring Program, these students completed a minimum of 75 tutoring hours, serving as literacy mentors and role models to our youngest learners across Putnam County.
As part of this statewide initiative, high school students work directly with elementary students to strengthen foundational literacy skills, encourage confidence, and foster a lifelong love of reading. While the tutoring hours represent dedication and commitment, the true impact is found in the relationships built between students and the encouragement shared through every story read, word sounded out, and lesson mastered.
This year's New Worlds Scholars include:
• Janelle Lara, Crescent City Jr.-Sr. High School
• Gardenia Phetsaya, Crescent City Jr.-Sr. High School
• Karla Perez, Crescent City Jr.-Sr. High School
• Yaretzi Godinez Martinez, Crescent City Jr.-Sr. High School
• Rocio Nunez-Santos, Crescent City Jr.-Sr. High School
• Shelby Newbold, Crescent City Jr.-Sr. High School
• Elizabeth Arrizon, Crescent City Jr.-Sr. High School
• Jaiden Ashley, Palatka Jr.-Sr. High School
• Stanford Givens, Palatka Jr.-Sr. High School
These scholars have exemplified leadership, compassion, and service by investing their time and talents into the success of younger students. Whether gathered around a picture book, practicing sight words, building vocabulary, or offering patient encouragement, they have helped shape brighter futures for children throughout our district.
Their achievement reflects the mission of the R.A.I.S.E. High School Tutoring Program: empowering students to make a meaningful difference while improving literacy outcomes for children who need it most.
The Putnam County School District extends its sincere appreciation to the principals, teachers, coordinators, and families who supported these students throughout their journey.
Congratulations to our 2025-2026 New Worlds Scholars. Your dedication reminds us that when students invest in one another, everyone succeeds.
#ProudtobePCSD