Smith-Cotton JROTC Staff Sergeant Mia Degraff earned the Cadet of the Month Award for September.

According to Sedalia School District 200, on Thursday, October 7, local 40 & 8 commander Cliff McBride awarded Degraff with a plaque in recognition of her achievement.

The award is given to a cadet for exceptional performance in front of a board of the Tiger Battalion staff, where they are tested over their military bearing, drill performance, confidence and overall extensive knowledge over army guidelines and history.

By winning the monthly board, cadets are qualified to advance onto the Cadet of the Year board that will take place in early April.

Cadet Degraff is in her second year of JROTC. She currently is the president of the Smith-Cotton Speech and Debate club, and a member of Student Council, the unarmed drill team and Link Crew.

Photo: Smith-Cotton JROTC Staff Sergeant Mia Degraff, left, is presented a plaque by 40 & 8 commander Cliff McBride for earning the Cadet of the Month Award for September. (Courtesy of Sedalia School District 200)