Excellence in Education Award Because of their belief in education and their appreciation of our teachers, the Rotary Club of Abilene honors teachers from the Abilene community. The committee has the responsibility of rotating the award selection so that all schools are equally recognized. Nomination should provide evidence of qualifications in three main areas. The highly successful mentoring program at Jefferson Middle School is a joint effort between the school, the Rotary Club of Abilene, and Abilene North Rotary Club. Mentors work with students on campus on a weekly basis.
Students develop a relationship with a positive role model.
Mentors help students broaden their knowledge of career opportunities by showing and giving information about their particular career. Mentors give the students extra support and encouragement in all areas. Rotary Reads - Jane Long Elementary School Rotary Readers from the Rotary Club of Abilene continually enrich Long Elementary students in many ways that help them to become reading enthusiasts. Dr. C. G. Gray, retired Abilene Christian University professor, tutors three boys three days a week in order to improve their reading skills. Four students were given reading recognition awards at the Rotary Club meeting.