Crown Scholar Award
At the AAYLC, we believe in celebrating the brilliance, resilience, and leadership of our youth. We’re excited to introduce the Crown Scholar Program—a fresh evolution of our Student of the Month initiative! This new name reflects the prestige and excellence of the students we recognize—those who wear their dedication, hard work, and impact like a crown.
Each month, we will spotlight outstanding 6th - 12th grade students who exemplify academic achievement, leadership, and service in their schools and communities. These young leaders are not just excelling today; they are shaping the future.
If you are a student aspiring to be an AAYLC Crown Scholar, kindly complete the student questionnaire provided below. For those wishing to nominate a student, please utilize the gray button provided.
Introducing Our Monthly Recipients
April 2026
Amara Johnson
At just 13 years old, Amara Johnson is already building a future defined by excellence, leadership, and heart. An 8th grader at Soaring Eagles Community School with a perfect 4.0 GPA, Amara proves that determination and discipline can take you far—both in the classroom and beyond. A true scholar-athlete, Amara has earned a spot on her middle school varsity basketball team all three years while also excelling in golf, volleyball, and track. Whether she’s on the court or in the classroom, she leads by example, consistently earning Gold and Principal’s Honor Roll every semester. Her love for math reflects her passion for problem-solving and critical thinking—skills she plans to carry into a future career in a STEAM field.
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March 2026
Malik Huerta
At just 17 years old, Malik Hale Huerta, a senior at Fountain Fort Carson High School, is already building a strong foundation for leadership, service, and impact. With a 3.7 GPA and an impressive list of achievements, Malik reflects the dedication, resilience, and community leadership that define a Crown Scholar. After graduation, he plans to attend Colorado State University–Pueblo, where he will study business and develop the skills needed to become a successful business leader while creating a lasting impact in his community. Malik hopes to build strong networks of mentors and peers, pursue meaningful opportunities that strengthen his experience and credibility, and achieve financial independence so he can continue giving back and uplifting others.
February 2026
Laila Bryant
Meet Laila Bryant, a driven and compassionate 9th grader at Sand Creek High School who is already making big moves toward an even bigger future! With an impressive 3.882 GPA, Laila is proof that hard work, focus, and determination truly pay off. At just 15 years old, she has her sights set on graduating from Harvard Law School and becoming a criminal defense attorney. Her passion for justice and fairness runs deep—she is determined to fight for those who may not have a voice and ensure everyone receives strong, honest representation. Laila is motivated by the belief that one person can make a powerful difference, and she plans to be that person in the courtroom one day.
January 2026
A'nya Hill
Meet A’nya Hill, a powerhouse 9th grader at Colorado Early Colleges in Colorado Springs with an impressive 4.4 GPA and an even bigger vision for the future. A’nya dreams of becoming an architect specializing in sustainable design, blending her passion for art with a deep desire to revitalize communities that have been overlooked or left behind. Her creativity isn’t just imagination—it’s purpose in action.
December 2025
Jeremiah Haliburton
Jeremiah, a senior at Harrison High School, is already making big moves—both on and off the field. With an impressive 3.6 GPA, Jeremiah’s love for English shines through, and it’s no surprise he’s completed four years of English before his senior year. That passion for storytelling and communication fuels his dream of becoming a sports analyst or broadcaster for ESPN one day.
November 2025
Naylani Sykes
At just 17 years old, Northfield High School senior Naylani Sykes already radiates the drive, compassion, and leadership of someone determined to make a difference. With a dream to become a pediatrician, Naylani is on a mission to ensure every child grows up healthy, happy, and supported—whether she’s cheering on the sidelines or volunteering in her community.
October 2025
Darray Robinson
Driven by a passion for creativity, leadership, and service, Darray is a visionary student whose dream is to become an architect. With plans to major in architectural engineering, Darray is determined to design spaces that uplift communities and improve lives, blending innovation with a deep sense of purpose. Her ultimate goal? To launch her own architectural firm—creating not just buildings, but a legacy of inspiration and positive change.
September 2025
Rawlston John
Meet Rawlston John, a senior at Harrison High School with a 3.5 GPA and big dreams of shaping the future through aerospace engineering. Rawlston’s passion for problem-solving and tackling challenges drives his goal to become an engineer whose work can make a lasting impact on the world.
August 2025
Nayellie Herrera
Nayellie Herrera is a passionate and driven senior at Harrison High School, holding a 3.7 GPA and aspiring to enter the medical field. A three-year participant in the UCCS Pre-Collegiate Program, Nayellie is inspired daily by her mother, whom she calls her biggest supporter and role model. Her love for science, math, biology, and history fuels her ambition to become a healthcare professional.
July 2025
Symone Pruitt
Symone is a dynamic senior at Discovery Canyon Campus with a 3.8 GPA and big dreams for her future! She is passionate about becoming an ultrasound technician—an ambition fueled by her faith in God, her supportive family, and her close friends.
Her favorite subject is business, which comes naturally to her and keeps her fully engaged. A consistent high-achiever, Symone has proudly made the honor roll and earned academic and athletic letters every year since freshman year.
June 2025
Mason Kirtley
At just 14 years old, Mason is already making serious moves—on the court, in the classroom, and in his community. A proud 8th grader at Fountain Fort Carson Middle School with a solid 3.65 GPA, Mason is driven by a dream: to play professional basketball in the NBA and become a powerhouse entrepreneur along the way.
May 2025
Jaela Johnson
Jaela, an 8th grader at Soaring Eagles Community School, is already making waves with her unstoppable drive and infectious enthusiasm! With a 3.25 GPA, a love for learning, and a record-breaking track season under her belt, Jaela is setting the pace—both on and off the field.