Shalesa Degree is finalist in Pre-Teen Academic and Enrichment Program

Shalesa Danielle Degree Shalesa Danielle Degree, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tyrone Parker of Blacksburg, has been selected as a finalist in the Pre-Tee South Carolina Academic and Enrichment Program to be held Aug.30-Sept. 1 at the Marriott in Spartanburg.

Pre-Tee South Carolina is a by-invitationonly academic and enrichment event for girls ages seven to 12, based on their school academic records, awards and honors won and/or their participation in outside activities. Additionally, the girls are invited who have been recognized publicly for their outstanding personal achievements, volunteer service, school involvement, leadership abilities or creative talents.

State finalists will be evaluated in academic achievement, volunteer service to their community, school honors and activities, development of personal skills and abilities, general knowledge assessment, communicative ability and on-stage acknowledgement of accomplishments.

The Pre-Teen South Carolina competition will present more than $5,000 in educational savings bonds, prizes and awards.

The Pre-Teen America Program was founded in 1990. The national charity affiliate of the program is the Shriners Children's Hospitals. The program has donated more than $395,000 since 1990 to the Shriners hospitals as well as to other previous national charity affiliates.