Five "Hero" Teens To Be Honored At Mississippi School
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 12, 2026
Youth Peace & Justice Foundation Youth Heroism Awards to Be Presented During School Pledge Ceremony on May 15
The Youth Peace & Justice Foundation announced today that students recently selected to receive the Foundation’s Youth Heroism Award will be formally recognized during a special school ceremony on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Hancock Middle School
The recognition will take place during the school’s regularly scheduled Pledge Ceremony, where approximately 600 students, parents, faculty members, and community supporters are expected to attend.
During the ceremony, school leadership will formally present the Youth Peace & Justice Foundation Heroism Award to the students in recognition of their extraordinary courage, leadership, and actions during a recent emergency situation involving their school bus driver and fellow students.
In addition to the award presentation, the school will deliver an official Statement of Recognition honoring the students for their composure, teamwork, and commitment to protecting others during the incident.
“These students demonstrated remarkable courage and maturity under extremely difficult circumstances,” said Daniel Chapin, Founder of the Youth Peace & Justice Foundation. “Their actions reflect the very best qualities of youth leadership—selflessness, bravery, and an instinct to protect others in a moment of crisis.”
“We are deeply appreciative of the school administration, faculty, and families for partnering with us to ensure these young people are recognized in front of their peers and community. Moments like this remind us that extraordinary leadership can emerge from even the youngest among us.”
The Foundation also noted that all media coordination for the event must be arranged through the school district’s public relations office. All visitors attending the ceremony will be required to check in through the school’s front office upon arrival.
The primary on-site coordination contact for the ceremony will be Dr. Melissa Saucier.
The Foundation stated that the ceremony is intended not only to recognize the individual students involved, but also to reinforce the importance of courage, compassion, and community responsibility among youth nationwide.
Event Information
**Date: Friday, May 15, 2026
**Time: 9:00 a.m.
**Event: Pledge Ceremony & Youth Heroism Award Presentation
**Expected Attendance: Approximately 300 students, parents, faculty, and community members
Media & Visitor Information
* All media requests must be coordinated through the school district’s Public Relations Director.
* All visitors must check in through the school’s front office upon arrival.
* Primary on-site coordination contact: Dr. Melissa Saucier — msaucier@hancockschools.net
About the Youth Peace & Justice Foundation
The Youth Peace & Justice Foundation is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing youth leadership, supporting student well-being, and recognizing acts of courage, compassion, and advocacy among young people across the United States.
Youth Peace & Justice Foundation / The Uvalde Foundation for Kids
254-499-8027
www.youthpeaceandjusticefoundation
Charity ID 88-3268749
