Escambia and Santa Rosa County schools have named Pine Forest High School senior James Christopher as the Student of the Week for April 6-10 after a strong public vote. Christopher earned 79.45% of the vote, while Pensacola High School senior Chriszaven Jones finished second with 20.19%.
A new round of voting is scheduled to begin on April 14, giving students and families another chance to support their nominees. The weekly recognition highlights standout students across the two counties and draws attention to achievement in academics, leadership, athletics, and service.
Why James Christopher was selected
Christopher’s nomination described him as diligent, dedicated, motivated, focused, and passionate. School staff said he stays active in student council work and helps lead student events, while still managing strong grades as an A/B student.
The nomination also emphasized his time management, calling it one of his strongest qualities. Teachers and peers said his enthusiasm, charisma, and school spirit have made him a visible presence at Pine Forest High School.
Other nominees recognized in the weekly vote
The Student of the Week program also highlighted three other students whose nominations pointed to leadership and service in different settings.
Chriszaven Jones, Pensacola High School
- Senior and varsity baseball team captain
- Three-year letterman
- Recognized for athletic leadership, classroom effort, and work in the Skilled Trades Building Technology program
Dymond Carthon, Success Academy
- Ninth-grade student praised for responsibility and organization
- Teachers said she is kind, hardworking, and creative
- Shared plans to become a cosmetologist and help underserved people with free haircuts and grooming
- Madison Newton, Escambia High School
- Eleventh-grade student known for band involvement and community service
- Plays baritone and takes part in honor band events
- Also serves in Girl Scouts, church roles, and summer programming for ESE students
What the nominations show
The weekly student recognition reflects more than grades alone, with schools pointing to leadership, service, character, and consistency as major factors. In Christopher’s case, the nomination tied academic balance with school involvement, while the other nominees showed strong records in athletics, community work, music, and career-focused learning.
The program continues to give local schools a public platform to recognize students who contribute in different ways, and the next voting cycle will begin soon for another round of nominees from Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.
Read more at: www.pnj.com
