Coach Gentry told the Ralston Public Schools Board the girls softball team finished 22–9 this season and reached the state tournament, a return to the state stage for the program after 11 years. "This year's seniors are the first group that has been with me all four years," Gentry said, and credited long-term commitment from players and families for on-field improvements. He highlighted pitching standout Mackenzie McCrander, who set a single‑season strikeout mark (252) and concluded her career with 583 strikeouts.

Superintendent Jason Buckingham and board members praised the program's defense, speed and team development, and invited players into the room so the board and audience could recognize them. Buckingham also thanked families and coaches for supporting student‑athletes’ travel and community visibility.

The board also recognized two students who qualified for the state cross‑country meet. Coaches said Mikaela placed among the top finishers on a challenging course and Barrett recorded one of the fastest freshman times in school history.

In elementary recognition, Ralston communications staff introduced two fifth graders from Meadows who participated in Civic Nebraska's Nebraska Kid Governor program. Delaney told the board her platform focused on animal adoption and shelter support and cited 2023 Nebraska Humane Society numbers presented in her remarks; Charlie said his platform centers on increasing cancer awareness and supporting families affected by childhood cancer, and proposed fundraisers and partnerships with programs such as Camp Kesem.

Why it matters: The honors highlight district extracurricular and civic‑education efforts — athletic programs that feed school spirit and statewide civics programs that give elementary students experience with campaigning, public speaking and community‑focused proposals. The board used the recognitions to thank coaches, families and staff and to note how school programs connect with broader community partnerships.

The meeting proceeded to consent business and a full agenda of district updates and action items following these recognitions.