P.E.A.R.L.S. President Carlyn A. Payton makes history as Thee First Miss Greenwood-Leflore Consolidated School District

"With any title, it carries weight and responsibility, and as a vessel on this Earth wanting to seek a label, we must first understand that weight is not easy to carry. The importance of criticism, struggle, dealing without inner beings, and the perception of others. But also, with that weight comes an opportunity to be an example of perseverance, commitment, and motivation. She can now use this experience to testify to other ladies to not walk in fear but with confidence in the strength of God." - Carlyn Payton

Carlyn Payton ended Women's History Month as making history being crowned Thee First Miss Greenwood-Leflore Consolidated School District. The honor of holding the title of a high school queen is to recognize students who have exemplified the qualities of their school. They are actively involved in their school community, demonstrate good character in their daily interaction, and who express school pride.

Carlyn is the daughter of Mr. Anthony and Mrs. Edshundra Gary, who she says is the best mother in the world, and Mr. Carlos Payton. Born on March 25, 2004 in Jacksonville, Florida, Carlyn was anointed and appointed as a baby to walk into the greatness God has destined for her. Carlyn is the oldest of four children. She has two sisters, Caleigh (14) and Avery (6), and one brother, AJ (11). Even amongst her siblings, Carlyn has always proven herself to be a leader.

Carlyn found her gift of singing at a young age and began perfecting this gift by singing at school, church, and all around the house. She also found interest in make-up and hair by watching YouTube videos and attending classes to enhance her knowledge and skill set. At Amanda Elzy High School, Carlyn has been a varsity cheerleader for the past 4 years, a member of the National Honor Society, ACT 20+ Club Member, Chick-Fil-A Leadership Academy Member and an AP, Dual Enrollment, and Work-Based Learning Student. She has also had the privilege of earning the title of Thee Inaugural Miss Greenwood Leflore Consolidated School District. In Carlyn’s spare time, she also enjoys working at Greenwood Market Place, fashion, listening to music, and spending time with family and friends. She is a member of Mt. Zion Sunnyside Church of God in Christ.

She gives honor to God because without him she is nothing but with him she is everything. Because of him she is able to stand and hold this position without fear or doubt. She reminesces as a student in 10th grade she sat in front of Mrs. Watikns classroom shy as can be. But little did she know she was one of the indivduals to shape and mold her into the lady she is today.

She does admit that choosing to run for this position was not an easy decison and that negative thoughts began to cloud her judgemnt especially with always seeming to be overlooked. But because of people close around her she found herself thinking, "Why not?"

Carlyn is a member of the Leflore County Chapter of P.E.A.R.L.S. Mentoring for Girls, Inc., an organization that seeks to help teenage girls build self-esteem, develop leadership skills and recognize the value of community service. Founder Aisha Erma Lenora Saffold says , " I want to thank her parents for allowing us to be a part of molding and shaping Carlyn. I remember when I met her at our first meeting and she was so small, quiet, but poised and alert. She never ran away from her responsibilities within the organization and participates in community service with pride. Since Carlyn has been a member, she has proven to be a positive role model through her own actions. She has demonstrated her devotion to our mission by not only caring out the P.E.A.R.L.S. values but as the Leflore County P.E.A.R.L.S. Chapter President as well as currently serving as P.E.A.R.L.S. State President." 

Carlyn has assisted with organizing, planning, and coordinating monthly chapter sessions, and has shown outstanding leadership qualities. As a result of her commitment, the organization has gained new members and has helped numerous women achieve their hopes and dreams. She thanks the Founder of P.E.A.R.L.S., her Mentor, Ms. Latonya Jones, and her P.E.A.R.L.S. Sisters because this organization has encompassed her and other girls to truly believe in themselves. She also thanks the organization for giving her the opportunity to lead and grow in her gifts.

​Carlyn plans to attend Tougaloo College majoring in Special Education. It is her goal to work with children with special needs and inspire them to see life in a new way.

We are so proud of you Carlyn and Dad we're rooting for her and that yellow Jeep that will hopefully grace the yard this year.