Cumberland Academy's Jade Feimster is The Fayetteville Observer's Student of the Week

Our readers have cast their ballots, and we have a winner for The Fayetteville Observer's Student of the Week for March 4-8.

Congratulations to Jade Feimster, a senior at Cumberland Academy who took the top spot with 39% of the votes. Jade received 334 votes of the 857 votes cast.

According to her nomination, "Jade is an exceptional student who maintains A honor roll while also taking classes at FTCC — so many that she will already have her associate's degree by the time she graduates high school this spring! She is also a starter for her second year in a row on the varsity soccer team at her home school, Gray's Creek High School, where she earned the nickname 'Devious Jade' because she is so kind and understated that no one expected her hard play and bold moves on the field! Jade is an overall fantastic student and young woman who deserves this recognition!"

Each week, local high schools nominate students for their outstanding academic and school achievements and community service. Readers will be able to cast their votes for The Fayetteville Observer Student of the Week between 5 a.m. Monday and noon Thursday every week during the traditional school year. We'll announce each week's winner at 5 a.m. Friday.

High school administrators or teachers who would like to submit a nomination or who have questions about the program can email studentoftheweek@fayobserver.com. Nominations are open now for next week's poll, but please keep in mind that only school staff can nominate students.

In addition to Jade Feimster, the following students were also nominated by school officials:

Nahmiah Aekins, senior, South View High School

Nahmiah is an amazing student-athlete. She is respectful to her teachers and coaches; she goes above and beyond on and off the court. She has excelled in her athletic activities and has been an outstanding player consistently since our 23-24 basketball season has begun. She is a leader and doesn't mind helping her teammates and classmates with plays and classwork.

Hailey Grace, junior, Massey Hill Classical High School

Hailey Grace is a junior at Massey Hill Classical High School who is dedicated to serving her community. She currently holds the position of lieutenant governor for Key Club International, serves as the committee chair for the Carolinas Membership Development Committee, and serves on Key Club International's Response Task Force. At Massey Hill, Hailey participates in Speech and Debate, Key Club, Prom Committee, Battle of the Books and National Honors Society, and is a junior class representative for the Student Government. She recently founded and presided over the Model United Nations Club.

Outside of school, Hailey loves volunteering and theater, participating in productions at Cape Fear Regional Theatre, The Gilbert Theater and FTCC. She volunteers at her church in the childcare center, and last year was recognized for gaining over 250 service hours. Hailey is currently in a production of "The Importance of Being Earnest" at Fayetteville Tech, where she is a part of the High School Connections program, and is currently working toward earning her associate's degree. Along with her college courses, Hailey takes multiple AP and honors classes. She hopes to attend a four-year university and double major in political science and economics and plans to use this degree for a career in politics. Hailey will be working at Camp Rockfish Summer Camp and Retreat Center this summer and plans to continue her volunteer work on her days off. Hailey is so glad to be a part of the Massey Hill family! Go Pirates!

Martha Moreno-Navarrete, junior, Cape Fear High School

She is one of the most incredible students we have here at Cape Fear High School!!  Not only is she in many clubs, orchestra, honor classes and AP classes, she is also president of the International Club and a member of the International Dance Troupe.  She is also on the A/B honor roll.

She is absolutely hands down the best club president I have ever had the pleasure of working and collaborating with.  She worked hard over this past summer to make sure we had some exciting new things planned for this year.  If students that want to participate in our club activities want to stay but don't have a ride she volunteers immediately to give them a ride so they can participate.  She stays late on any given day to make sure I have what I need and things are a go for all things we do in the club.  For the month of February, there is no way I could have organized and planned our first Black History Month Program in conjunction with our partners at Fayetteville State University without her support.  She is my right hand in everything.  I strongly feel that because of her we have been able to accomplish so many new and exciting things.  This school year isn't even over yet, but I know we will end the year with a bang!  Thank you for all that you do Martha!

Takirra Simon, junior, Cumberland Academy

Takirra is an exceptional young lady who has demonstrated remarkable resilience in overcoming numerous obstacles throughout her journey. She serves as a shining example to her peers, showcasing determination and perseverance in all aspects of her life. Since entering high school, Takirra has consistently excelled academically, maintaining an impressive position on the honor roll.

What truly sets Takirra apart is her commitment to serving her community. She has taken the initiative to spearhead several service projects for esteemed organizations, such as Partnership for Children of Cumberland County, Falcon's Children Home and the Children's Advocacy Center. Through her dedication and compassion, Takirra has significantly impacted the lives of those around her, embodying the values of empathy and altruism.

Lauren Zuravel, senior, Terry Sanford High School

Lauren is a stellar student who recently received the prestigious Morehead Scholarship. She not only maintains top grades in her classes, but she is also an active member of both the women's tennis and lacrosse teams here at FTS. She is a wonderful all-around student and is very much deserving of this recognition,

This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: fayetteville-observer-student-of-the-week-vote-results-March 4-8