Blair Oaks Middle School held an assembly Friday to celebrate the district's designation as a Missouri Purple Star school that supports students in military families.
And while many staff and students came decked in purple for the occasion, there was another recognition to be made -- this one a secret.
After recognizing students in military families, Middle School Principal Melinda Aholt invited student Peyton Caldwell to read a letter she had written.
"Dear Mrs. Stokes," she began. The letter was addressed to middle school counselor Maria Stokes.
"No matter how hard it is, you still show up and make sure you are there for those who need you. Your advice and guidance helped so many people, including myself," she continued. Caldwell thanked Stokes for the comfort she provided through difficult periods of her life.
Aholt then informed the school that Stokes had been named Mid-Missouri Regional Counselor of the Year.
Devin Lynch, vice president of professional recognition for the Mid-Missouri School Counseling Association, presented Stokes with the award.
Stokes' husband, Curt, and mom and dad Ron and Dotty Sides, came out to greet her from the spot in the bleachers where they had been hidden.
Her students gave her a standing ovation.
"You guys let me cheerlead you, some of you guys let me nag you ... It's just because we are all trying to push you," Stokes said to the students.
Stokes said she was a "little bit" surprised, but had gotten an accidental heads up just before.
"We are in middle school," she said.
Lynch shared some of the comments made about Stokes by district staff and students. They agreed that Stokes is welcoming and students feel comfortable talking with her, that she is dedicated, that she tries to help students achieve success at home and in school, that she goes above and beyond, and that she helps students and families in multiple ways.
Throughout the comments, Stokes wiped away tears.
Lynch had to work hard to keep the secret, since Stokes is the incoming president of the MMSCA, meaning she would normally be very involved in the process of administering the award.
"You did a good job," Stokes said to Lynch. "She dropped no hints."