The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office recognized three local students for their positive attitudes, hard work, and dedication to helping others.

On January 8, members of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office visited schools across the county to present Sheriff Rick Staly’s “Great Kid” Award to students at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. Investigative Services Division Chief Agustin Rodriguez, Youth Services Section Commander Jennifer Nawrocki, and School Resource Unit Sergeant Shane Meehan presented the November 2025 awards alongside school resource deputies.

The monthly awards honor students who respect their peers, help others, work hard in school, and represent themselves and their school well. School resource deputies and school employees nominate the recipients.

“It’s a privilege to be able to recognize these outstanding students,” said Sheriff Staly. “They were chosen as ‘Great Kids’ because of their achievements in and out of school. Their selflessness and attitude do not go unnoticed. We’re excited to be able to honor these students and recognize them for being great kids.”

Kingston Bass, a third grader at Rymfire Elementary School, received the elementary school award. Those who nominated him praised his responsibility, positive attitude, and work ethic. According to the school resource deputies and teachers, Bass “always tries his best and is an active participant in daily lessons. He works hard to maintain good grades and is an excellent student who sets a terrific example for his fellow classmates. He is a model student in our third-grade class and we are very proud to have him receive the Great Kid Award!”

Dagen Bernard, an eighth grader at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School, received the middle school award for his dedication to service. According to his teachers, Bernard “is always kind to others and extremely helpful. He is respectful to his teachers and everyone that he comes in contact with. He makes St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School a better school on a daily basis. He is truly a Great Kid and well deserving of this award!”

Paul Bowen, a junior at Flagler Palm Coast High School, received the high school award. Bowen is a committed student and dedicated member of the baseball team. Those who nominated him said Bowen “approaches both his academics and athletics with consistency and determination. He demonstrates a strong character, solid values, and a positive attitude on a daily basis and is a great example for his peers to follow. We are proud to have him as a valued member of the FPC family!”

A group of eight people, including law enforcement officers and civilians, stand in front of a trophy case One young man in the center holds a certificate and poses with others smiling beside him A group of seven people, including three uniformed officers, stand smiling in a school hallway One teenager in the center holds a certificate, flanked by adults in casual and professional attire A child holds a certificate and stands with two women and four uniformed officers, all smiling in a hallway with student artwork displayed on the wall behind them