I am APS is a special series highlighting students, faculty, alumni, and others in celebration of the rich and diverse experiences, backgrounds and contributions within the Atlanta Public Schools family. Together, we stand in solidarity of our shared admiration of APS and the mission which guides us. #IamAPS
Mr. and Miss Sylvan, Octavious Porter and Cassie Lagon, and their court at their coronation ceremony. Photos courtesy of Sylvan Hills Middle School. ©
Sylvan Hills Middle School takes immense pride in fostering a community that champions academic excellence and instills values of leadership and service among its students. At the core of this tradition is the annual appointment of Mr. and Miss Sylvan, two eighth graders elected by their peers to embody the school’s mission and core values.
The reigning Mr. and Miss Sylvan, Octavious Porter and Cassie Lagon, take their ambassadorship seriously, carrying out their roles which extend from modeling good behavior and leadership to promoting school spirit. In addition, they participate in events and competitions, engage in community service projects, and serve as a vital link between students and faculty.
Porter, a seasoned athlete, is a prominent figure in Sylvan Hills with a basketball journey that commenced at the young age of five. His interests extend beyond the basketball court, encompassing football, track, and science.
Equally accomplished in athletics, Lagon brings her vibrant spirit to Sylvan Hills through her participation in cheerleading and softball. Her commitment to teamwork and fostering school spirit is an asset to her duties as Miss Sylvan.
Mr. and Miss Sylvan, Octavious Porter and Cassie Lagon, and their court at Perkerson Elementary School. Photo courtesy of Sylvan Hills Middle School. ©
Recently, Porter and Lagon were instrumental in initiating a community outreach literacy program. Collaborating with elementary schools in the Carver Cluster, including Finch, Kindezi at Gideons, and Perkerson Elementary School, they, along with their Royal Court, have been visiting classrooms throughout the school year with the mission to inspire a love for reading among younger students.
This February, in honor of Black History Month, they will host the “Sylvan’s Got Talent” talent show. This event serves as a platform to showcase the diverse talents within the student body and honors the rich cultural heritage woven into the fabric of Black history.
Shortly after they were elected, Porter and Lagon shared with us why they love Sylvan Hills and what it means to represent their school.
Sylvan Hills Middle School’s “Mr. Sylvan” Octavious Porter. Photo: Allison M. Slocum, APS ©
OCTAVIOUS PORTER
Eighth-grade triathlete and the 2023-2024 Mr. Sylvan
What is your favorite subject?
I like science, specifically hands-on science. I like to use my hands a lot, and I really like to learn about the different atoms and how life works. [This year] we learned about the atoms, the different elements and the periodic table.
What do you like about Sylvan?
Sylvan is a great school. If you are starting middle school, you should think about coming to Sylvan because they have a great learning program. They help you out a lot. There is also a program called the After School All-Stars, which has school activities and [assists] with homework and enrichment.
Have you learned lessons at Sylvan that would give you the tools you need for future success?
Yes. If I ever wanted to write anything, or even if I want to do an interview like this, Sylvan has helped me develop what to say that will prepare me for anything.
Sylvan Hills Middle School’s “Miss Sylvan” Cassie Lagon. Photo: Allison M. Slocum, APS ©
CASSIE LAGON
Eighth-grade spirit leader and the 2023-2024 Miss Sylvan
What is your favorite subject?
Math. It teaches you a lot. People say you might not [need to] apply it to the real world, or [use it] when you get older, but it actually does teach you a lot. It helps out your critical thinking skills, and it really makes you think and try to understand.
What do you like about Sylvan?
The teachers at Sylvan encourage us a lot. They encourage us to take notes, and they encourage us to be the best version of ourselves.
What does it mean to be Miss Sylvan?
I like that I get to connect with my peers. During the voting process, when all of the kids were coming out to the courtyard, I was able to talk to and meet them. I would speak to them about what they want to see happen around the school that would help them learn better. I am then able to talk to the principal and other teachers about what they tell me. Being that connection is what being Miss Sylvan means to me.