Eighth grader Lyla Custer was chosen as the recipient of the 2025-2026 Student of the Year Award for Cedar Crest Middle School. She was presented with the award at the April 2026 meeting of the Cornwall-Lebanon School District Board of School Directors.

“Lyla has demonstrated pride in herself and her family, as well as the humility and confidence to treat others with kindness, serve her school, and do what is right,” said CCMS Principal Joe Burton, who presented Lyla with the award.

Lyla was a member of drama, chorus, cross country, and track and field teams. She also served on student council, where she planned and led events to build community spirit at CCMS. In addition, she contributed to Students for Christ and is involved in her church community.

After being presented with the award, Lyla shared:

Middle school has brought so much growth in my life and has been a positive experience in more ways than one. Personally, I've been able to learn so much about the person I am and hope to become through things I'm involved in, like my classes, sports, clubs, theater, student council, and many more activities. These have all taught me how to work well with others, lead, communicate, and be optimistic no matter what I face. All in all, through this experience, I've begun to grasp that showing up and trying is more important than perfection. This recognition is a lot more than an award. Truly, it's about the community we've built here at CCMS, and my goal is to represent it well. I thank God for continually blessing me and for putting me into this role.

The CCMS Student of the Year award annually recognizes an eighth-grade student for their involvement in school and community activities and for demonstrating The CCMS Core Values of Falcon Pride: Positive Attitude, Work Hard, Do What is Right, and Share Your Talents.