Bright Star student Rafael Barrios and Arbor Station student Avalynn Minix celebrate with Freddie Falcon during visits to their schools on Aug. 28, 2026.

Freddie Falcon Teaches Arbor Station, Bright Star Students to 'Rise Up'

DCSS

September 2, 2026

Students at Arbor Station and Bright Star elementary schools enjoyed a special visit on Aug. 28 Arbor Station Principal Anitra Paige dances with Freddie Falcon during the mascot's visit to her school.from the Atlanta Falcons mascot, Freddie Falcon, where they learned what it means to "Rise Up" in life.

The gymnasiums at both schools were filled with excitement, laughter and plenty of Falcons spirit as Freddie and the Falcons taught them that "rising up" means making good choices, working hard, showing respect, believing in yourself and continuing to push forward even when things get difficult.

Students also heard surprise messages from cheerleaders and star running back Bijan Robinson.

Freddie also recognized a student and teacher from each school for their leadership and community impact.

At Arbor Station, fourth-grader Avalynn Minix and Teacher of the Year Kat Wallace were honored by Freddie and the Falcons.

Principal Anitra Paige said Minix logged 1,920 minutes of reading over the summer as part of theBright Star Elementary students hold up their Falcons flags during Freddie Falcon's visit. Douglas Loves Literacy Summer Reading Challenge to help push Douglas County well past the community-wide goal of 3 million minutes.

Wallace was praised by Paige for going above and beyond to support both her students and colleagues through dedication, reliability and genuine care for her school community.

At Bright Star, student Rafael Barrios was recognized for bringing positive energy to school every day, being kind and helpful to everyone.

Barrios started a tradition in kindergarten of bringing teachers flowers — coming to school dressed in cowboy boots, belt buckle and a cowboy hat to smile and distribute them — Principal Heather Fields said.

Teacher BreAsia Maddox was recognized for her contributions at Bright Star, including startingFreddie Falcon gives high-fives to students at Arbor Station Elementary. the Comet cheerleading team. The popular team now has three coaches and has been asked to perform at middle school games in Douglas County.

Minix and Barrios received special gift bags that included a Falcons mini helmet signed by Robinson, along with other Falcons prizes.

Wallace and Maddox both received special gifts, including $150 gift cards from RaceTrac.

Both school principals were also presented with $1,000 checks from the Falcons for their schools.

Arbor Station Principal Anitra Paige, staff member and student hold up the $1,000 check from the Falcons with Freddie Falcon. Bright Star Principal Heather Fields, staff member and student hold up the $1,000 check from the Falcons with Freddie Falcon.