Two Queen Creek Unified School District elementary students and the district’s superintendent have been honored by School Connect, an organization that connects schools to communities across Arizona.

This year’s School Connect Student Champion K–6 Awards went to Cooper DeWitt from Katherine Mecham Barney Elementary and Owen Fuhriman from Silver Valley Elementary.

“This award is given to students who exemplify leading by example and inspiring his or her fellow students to embody generosity, perseverance and the bold leadership required to empower the next generation,” according to a press release.

Perry Berry was presented the Changemaker Award at the School Connect Awards Ceremony at the end of April.

The award honors a superintendent “who brings innovative solutions to their entire district; building networks of support across multiple sectors to create diverse and powerful growth,” the release stated.

"The award is a testament that validates the great work that happens every single day in my school district," Berry said.

Events such as the  QCUSD’s Community and Family Engagement Breakfasts and Love Our Schools Day are two examples of the ways School Connect programs help the district strengthen its relationships with local volunteers, nonprofits and leaders.