Fireproof & Unstoppable: How Promise Burton Turned Adversity into Leadership and Named J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week Award Winner
- 16 hours ago
- 5 min read
By Levi Lee
The J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week Award recognized an extraordinary young leader: Promise Burton, an 11th grader at Wyandotte High School in the Kansas City Kansas Public Schools district.
The J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week Award exists to “empower youths to become who and what they want,” celebrating students who reflect the values of Justice, Empowerment, Growth, Nurturing, and Advocacy. Each week, one student from Kindergarten through college is selected for excellence in academics, behavior, leadership, attendance, and for being a positive influence in their school community. Promise Burton embodies those principles.
Leadership Through Adversity
This presentation was unlike most. Due to a fire at Wyandotte High School, students were temporarily out of the building. Yet despite the disruption, Promise, her coach, and the award team made sure the moment happened.
Honorable Tony Martinez, who serves as the award presenter, reflected on the significance, “This presentation was done when the recipient was out of school due to a fire at Wyandotte High School. The fact the recipient, nominator AND family all appeared when their school was shut down showed the importance of both giving and receiving. I believe that shows the integrity of all to be involved and complete the process.”
He continued with pride, “What a great example of the importance Coach and student have regarding Ms. Burton’s education and personal growth. Great job from a very smart and caring young student. GO BULLDOGS!!”
Even in uncertain circumstances, the ceremony was filled with warmth and intention. Keyron “Coach Keyz” Kimbrough, J.E.G.N.A. Klub Award Coordinator noted, “First time I have ever had the presentation in the school library. Yet even with the adjustments of being in the library of a non home school of the awardee, the presentation went very well and actually mirrored the resilience Promise herself displays daily.”
A Nomination Rooted in Character
Promise was nominated by her Head Girls Basketball Coach, Anthony D. Williams Jr., who described her as responsible, dependable, and deeply committed.
During the formal reading, Judge Martinez shared Coach Williams’ powerful words:
“Promise’s strongest quality is her sense of responsibility. She understands accountability, takes pride in her work, and remains focused and reliable whether working independently or as part of a team.”
He emphasized that Promise:
“Consistently shows respect toward peers, coaches, and teachers by listening attentively, following instructions, and treating others with kindness and fairness.”
And perhaps most fittingly:
“True to her name, Promise is dependable, hardworking, and willing to put in the time needed to succeed. She embodies the J.E.G.N.A. Klub values of discipline, respect, perseverance, excellence, and integrity.”
When the award box was handed to her and she opened it herself — as tradition calls for — her excitement filled the room. Coach Williams shared simply:
“She (Promise) was very excited about being honored.”
That excitement was more than happiness. It was affirmation.
Recognition That Builds Confidence
Promises’ Mother, Rita Petty captured the emotional tone of the moment:
“The thing that stood out the most during the presentation was how intentional and affirming the recognition felt. The way the award was presented made Miss Burton feel seen and valued which promoted her self-confidence.”
That intentional affirmation is by design. The J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week Award is not just a trophy — it is a launchpad.
Along with her award Promise and Coach Williams received an official 2025–26 Student of the Week T-shirt, an Oral-B Clic toothbrush, a $15 Stockpile “Any Stock” Gift Card and he eBook, From Teen to Millionaire: A Guide for Young Investors by Chris Dunlap of Nu Wall Street.
They were also personally invited to attend the upcoming Economic Independence Academy workshop powered by Eastside Innovation, Nu Wall Street, and the Foundation for Excellence — a free, hands-on financial literacy experience covering Investing 101, Real Estate 101, and Debt Free 4 Life Family Financial Planning.
Workshop Details
📅 Wednesday, March 11, 2026
⏰ 5:00 – 7:30 PM
📍 Gloria Willis Middle School
1735 N 64th Terrace
Kansas City, KS 66102
Workshop Topics Include:
• Investing & Stock Market Basics
• Real Estate & Homeownership Pathways
• Financial Planning for Families
• Building Generational Wealth Together
✔️ Free to attend
✔️ Spanish interpreter available
⚠️ Attendance limited to 50 participants
RSVP is required to attend.
Please reserve your spot here:
As Coordinator Keyron Kimbrough stated, “I believe it provides positive reinforcement.” Across every adult in attendance, the impact rating for the award was unanimous: 5 out of 5 — Extremely Strong in positively influencing students. Judge Martinez noted the award promotes, “Leadership and perseverance and commitment.” Coach Williams added it builds, “Self confidence and will power.” And Rita Petty affirmed, “It truly promoted self-confidence and highlights leadership in youth. It is wonderful to see hard work acknowledged in such a meaningful way.”
How to Nominate a Student
Teachers, coaches, school staff, counselors, community members, and administrators are all encouraged to nominate students in the KCK school community that exemplify the J.E.G.N.A. values.
To nominate:
1. Visit The Jegna Klub Website Home Page
2. Click Nominate Student of the Week
3. Fill out form providing the student’s information and explain how they represent Justice, Empowerment, Growth, Nurturing, and Advocacy
4. Submit the form
Each week, a chosen student receives recognition at their school, gifts that support academic and economic growth, and spotlighted on JEGNAFEST Worldwide Radio, syndicated across 152 stations globally, airing on 103.7 DaBeat Saturday's at 12:00 pm CST, Wednesday's at 6:00 pm CST (Click Link Here scroll down to player and press play) and on The Ryan Show FM on Thursday's 10:00 pm CST (Click Link Here scroll down to logo and click).
Community-Powered Impact
This award is made possible through strong community partnerships. These partners help provide awards, financial literacy resources, celebration materials, and invaluable encouragement that support students like Jaxon in reaching their potential. A special THANK YOU to:
A Beacon of Light
Promise Burton’s recognition reminds us that leadership is often quiet, steady, and consistent. It shows up in responsibility. In respect. In perseverance, even when school buildings close and circumstances shift. When young people are seen, valued, and invested in, they rise. Congratulations, Promise Burton. Continue to advocate, lead, and be a beacon of light at Wyandotte High School.
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