Allison Novack receives the District's Outstanding Student Volunteer Award from Superintendent of Schools Alberto Carvalho

Allison Novack has been named as the Outstanding Youth Volunteer of the Year for the entire Miami-Dade County Public School System. At a gathering of over 1,200 people at Jungle Island on April 15, 2010, the award was announced after a panel of judges had been reviewing nominations for the past several weeks.

Allison’s volunteer work in many capacities, including as President of the Junior State of America (MB Chapter), as Producer for the non-profit 1308 Productions organization, as organizer of youth voter registration projects, as host to a Congressional visit to Beach High, as an integral part of Sky News’ global coverage of US elections, as creator of Rock the Vote concerts and shows, and as an energetic student leader on the local, national and international level, all created positive results for her school and community.

The Miami-Dade County Public School District thanked Allison for her devotion to public service. On hand were Superintendent of Schools Alberto Carvalho, School Board Vice Chair Perla Tabares Hantman, and School Board Members Dr. Lawrence Feldman, Dr. Wilbert Holloway, and Augustin Barrera. Also in attendance were corporate and business leaders, civic organizations, educators and public administrators.

Allison’s efforts have been spotlighted by Voice of America Radio, global television network Sky News, the United States Congress, Teen Voices “18 under 18″, and many other media and civic recognitions.

Allison combines her passion for music with writing and leadership by producing teen-friendly concerts with 1308 Productions, a non-profit that she and her family created to bring emerging bands to youth at an affordable cost in the Miami area. The shows have since become officially endorsed by MTV’s Rock the Vote organization and encourage teens to get involved with politics. Not only are rising bands getting great exposure with new audiences, but teens who help Allison organize and promote the events receive community-service credit.

When asked how she feels about being on this list, Allison says: “It amazes me that I’m recognized in a list of only 18 students. It really is an honor, since the reason [for getting involved] was not to be recognized. I did it because I enjoy it, and I’m glad for all of the positive results that are created.”

Clark Douglas Burris, director of Rock Ensemble, Sound Engineering and Guitar Studies at Miami Beach Senior High School, says: “By taking the unusual initiative, as a teenager, to provide these special events for her fellow teenagers to display their musical talents, Allison has set the example for others to follow. This is only one of the ways in which Allison, in her own unique fashion, has improved the world.”

View all of the “18 Under 18″ winners here http://www.jvibe.com/Real_life/18Under18.php