The Gazebo Gazette

LONG BEACH (GG) — The Long Beach Excellence in Education Foundation has funded five $1,000.00 scholarships to 2025 LBHS graduating seniors. To be eligible for consideration, applicants had to possess strong leadership skills, academic achievement, strong work ethic, and community involvement.  

The 2025 LBSD Scholarship – Honoring Fred Walker award recipients were  David Bartlett, Christian Dubuisson, Stella Jackson, Alan Long, and Jenna Shirk. 

David Bartlett plans to attend the University of Southern Mississippi to pursue a  degree in History. He has been very active in high school as a member of the National Honor Society, Phi Theta Kappa (MGCCC), and the LBHS marching band. He has been recognized multiple times with Superintendent’s Awards, AP  Scholar Awards, and with a WoodmenLife American History Award. David is the son of David and Carrie Bartlett. 

Christian Dubuisson plans to attend Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College o and pursue a degree in Communications. During high school, Christian played varsity baseball and was a member of his class co-op and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He is also active in his church’s youth program. Christian is the son of David and Amber Shavers. 

Stella Jackson plans to attend Mississippi State University and pursue a degree in Business Administration. During high school, she has been very active in Cheer, Key Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Co-Op. She has received a LBHS Cheer Community Service award and has been recognized with several accolades in the LBHS Who’s Who. Stella’s parents are Chip and Debra Jackson. 

Alan Long plans to attend the University of South Alabama and study Kinesiology.  At LBHS he was very involved in numerous activities including Student Council, National Honor Society, Class Co-Op, and LBHS Concert Choir. He was also on the football team and part of the 4-time state champion soccer team, serving as goalkeeper. He has received recognition for his academic achievements in Algebra III and has been recognized at the Superintendent’s Awards. Alan was also selected to attend the Coast Electric Cooperative Youth Leadership program and the Trent Lott Emerging Leaders Workshop Retreat. He is also very active in his church and community, volunteering in many roles. Alan is the son of John and Amanda Long.

Jenna Shirk plans to attend Mississippi State University and major in Biochemistry.  During high school, Jenna has been involved in many extracurricular activities, serving as member and officer in several. These activities include Student Council, Co-Op, National Honor Society, Young Republicans, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Key Club. She also played on the LBHS tennis team. Jenna is very  active in her church and community. She has attended mission trips and youth  conferences, as well as volunteering for many hours with Bearcat Buddies, Camp  Able, local blood and food drives, and beach clean-ups. She is also a member of the  Mayor’s Youth Council. Jenna is the daughter of Steven and Linda Shirk. 

The Long Beach Excellence in Education Foundation was formed to support the  LBSD by supplementing programs for staff and students. During the 2024-2025 school year, the foundation has also funded teacher grants and sponsored several staff recognition programs.

The group’s efforts are funded through donations and fundraising. For more information regarding the foundation, visit their website at www.lbexcellence.org or contact them at lbexcellenceineducation@gmail.com.  Tax-deductible donations may be made at https://bit.ly/LB-EEF.