The Effingham County Board of Education recognized Allison Dyches at the meeting Thursday.

Superintendent Randy Shearouse introduced her to the board members.

Shearouse told the board Allison is an eighth grade student at Effingham County Middle School. She is in the gifted and talented program and an honor roll student. She is also a member of Model U.N., band and she is active in her church youth group.

“For the past two years she’s been showing and handling her dogs, and other people’s dogs in the Australian Shepherd Club of America competitions,” Shearouse said.

“I know you’re very smart because the dogs are very smart, and you have to be a little bit smarter than them to be able to train them,” Shearouse said. “She won first place in showmanship at nationals. We’re very glad to have her here tonight.”

Allison had her dog jump into her arms as the board observed.

When she was done Shearouse presented her with a certificate of recognition from the board.

“I tell you I’ve had dogs all my life, and I love dogs and I can’t get them to sit down. I feel very confident you know what you’re doing,” Shearouse said.