Deering High School is proud to announce Khalid Mahamed 12th grade,  as the recipient of the 2024-2025 Principal's Award.

Khalid's contributions to the school community are extensive and impactful. As student body president, and President of the Black Student Union, the largest affinity club in the state of Maine, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, championing peace and unity throughout the student body. Demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to education, Khalid took the opportunity to fill his schedule with AP courses since the 9th grade and college classes during his senior year. He is a scholar-athlete, a vital force behind pep rallies and the yearbook, and a contributing visionary behind the highly successful Culture Day celebration. 

Beyond his academic achievements, he serves as a positive role model, guiding his peers and consistently offering a helpful and enthusiastic demeanor to all. 

Dr. Jake Giessman, Principal of Deering High School, stated, 'Khalid consistently offers a bright greeting to adults and approaches challenges with a troubleshooting attitude. He exemplifies the spirit of our school. He is a shining example of the positive impact that student leadership can have on our school community.'

Ms. Noor, Assistant Principal of Deering High School, shared “The official Mr. Deering, Khalid, is an exceptional young person who embodies all of Deering’s values ! Since his freshman year, Khalid has been at the forefront of every single Deering event! Students, staff and families know that if Khalid is at the event, it will be one to remember. For the past four years at Deering Khalid has successfully managed, curated, and organized Culture Day, pep rallies, and the first ever annual Open Gym at Deering High School. Khalid has an incredible natural skill in front of the mic and can get Deering students excited about being ALL ONE SCHOOL and Learning Together. Not only has Khalid been the face of Deering at events! In the classroom, on the court and field, Khalid is a student teachers, coaches and classmates can depend on. Adults and students in the building constantly witness Khalid’s bright smile and fluffy hair as he pushes his peers to excel academically; during his free period, they see Khalid sitting down with a group of 9th graders and guiding them through their school work, or simply supporting them in making healthier, safer and kinder decisions. This is why, during his 11th grade year, Khalid was chosen to lead the first ever “Boys Leadership Group” at Deering due to his extensive mentoring experience (and again this year!). As the leader of the group Khalid supported 9th grader boys in cultivating their leadership skills for over 4 weeks. It’s not only Deering that has the wonderful experience of having Khalid’s presence, but the district, and multiple Maine schools as a whole! As President and member of BSU, Khalid has helped establish, support and nurture multiple student oriented clubs! In his presidency Khalid has led a successful mentoring program by partnering BSU with the middle schools Make It Happen program to support 8th graders with their transition to high school. At Rowe elementary school Khalid spoke to a group of 5th graders about the importance of utilizing their voice for goodness and kindness. During his 10th grade year Khalid was chosen to be part of the Yellow Tulip Project highlighting the importance of young boys discussing mental health, and his portrait was unveiled in multiple art galleries across the state. Khalid and free time? He’s never heard of such a phrase! At a time where most peers take a study hall to relax, Khalid uses his study hall period to tutor Deering peers on different and difficult subjects. One common theme with Khalid is that he will always challenge himself academically by taking multiple AP and college courses where he excels. Once he’s mastered these courses, he will give back to peers by supporting them; Khalid pushes his peers to be ALL ONE SCHOOL, LEARNING TOGETHER, because that’s the DEERING DIFFERENCE! As his former AP Human Geography teacher I have witnessed first hand the care, kindness and support Khalid shows all peers in class; and as his Assistant Principal I continuously see how Khalid chooses kindness first, above all else. It is an honor to present Khalid with this award—but I promise you, that even this award does not encapsulate the wonders of Mr. Deering, Khalid Mahamed. Keep your eyes on him, because this young man will most definitely change the world for the better. We are so proud to have such a kind, intelligent, inspiring and hard working young man at Deering!”

His natural leadership abilities extend beyond formal roles, as he consistently supports his peers, encouraging them to embrace a positive Deering school attitude. At Deering High School, we are committed to nurturing strong student voices and providing diverse opportunities for leadership and inclusion. Khalid’s actions reflect the core principles outlined in the Deering handbook, including:

• Promoting an inclusive culture.
• Treating others with respect and empathy.
• Taking responsibility for learning and actions.
• Supporting and recognizing the strengths of others.
• Striving to find common ground and building unity.

Dr. Jake Giessman, along with the Assistant Principals, Athletic Director, and Interim Assistant Principal, proudly presented the award to Khalid. His consistent application of these principles, combined with his academic success and engagement in school activities, mark him as a worthy recipient.

Deering High School recognizes Khalid Mahamed's achievements and his consistent efforts to improve our school.