They face life’s challenges head on – and they’re winning.
They’re young, surely, but role models for all ages.
Winners of “Every Student Succeeding” honors were celebrated by NUSD today (Feb. 17), one student from each school who has overcome adversity or exceeded expectations to succeed academically and personally – for example:
· A 5th-grader who was born with Cerebral Palsy and has struggled at times with peers, but works hard and has made huge progress in his second year in a General Education classroom. He loves to read aloud in class, give presentations and be part of a team – the Science Action Club, for example, or school sports.
· A 5th-grader who began his educational path with instability — attending six schools within his first two years of elementary school – and overcame low marks in years past to become a standout in grades, attendance and behavior.
· A 12th-grader who has overcome numerous hardships – she was diagnosed with a learning disability, attended numerous elementary schools, and after her third year in high school she was placed in protective custody because of a situation that posed potential danger. Through determination and strength of character, she is excelling now in her senior year.
· A 12th-grader with a history of instability in his home and school life who fell far behind academically his first two years of high school. He transferred to Discovery High, however, joined the Culinary Arts program and turned his life around. Now at Inderkum High for his senior year, he’s on track to graduate, had a 3.0 grade point average the first semester, and is a member of the school’s soccer team.
Associate Superintendent Heather Garcia, who introduced the winners to a crowd that included Trustees, principals, district leaders and honorees’ family or friends, said the students’ stories of perseverance inspire many others.
“Their success is our success, their powerful stories our inspiration,” she said.
NUSD nominates one “Every Student Succeeding” honoree each year for consideration by the Association of California School Admininistrators (ACSA) in naming regional and eventually statewide winners.
This year’s NUSD candidate for higher honors, a 12th-grader now, has experienced an unstable living situation since her father went to prison when she was 4. She once lived in a homeless shelter and has lived with aunties, uncles, granny, friends and cousins. She failed many classes her first two years of high school, earned few credits, and spent more time in the main office than in class. Fast forward a couple years, and she now has a 3.4 gpa, she’s on the wrestling team, a cheerleader, president of the Black Student Union, and plans to attend community college next year.
“You have overcome so much and continue to do so,” Garcia said in introducing the teen at today’s celebration. “Through all of your constant struggles you continue to push forward with a positive attitude and a beautiful smile on your face! You are a motivation to others and you should be so proud of your efforts and accomplishments. This is ONLY the beginning for you!”
