From WCS inFocus
Rhys Stevenson isn’t your average fifth grader. The 12-year-old knows how to fly an airplane, drive a boat and feed his pet alpacas.
But it’s his commitment to his school-work and his kindness to others that’s earning him recognition at Grassland Elementary School.
“We are proud to announce that Rhys is our Academic All-Star for the 2017-18 school year,” said GES Principal Dr. Ann Gordon. “Rhys was chosen for this honor due to his positive attitude, determination and perseverance. He has a smile that is contagious, and he is always willing to support his peers.”
Rhys has been a student at Grassland Elementary since kindergarten and says he can’t imagine being a student anywhere else.
“I think this school is great,” said Rhys. “The teachers are nice. They are always here for me when I need help. On Tuesdays, I come to school early to work on math with my teacher Ms. Wheeler.”
When he grows up, Rhys says he wants to carry on the family tradition and be a pilot.
“I started flying when I was nine,” said Rhys. “My dad and my grandfather were both pilots, and my mom and my grandmother were both flight attendants.”
In addition to that, Rhys says he’d like to own a horse farm.
“I love animals,” said Rhys. “We have a zorse which is half-zebra and half horse. We also have two alpacas and four miniature horses.”
As he finishes up his fifth grade year, Rhys says being named an Academic All-Star will go down as one of the highlights of his elementary school education.
“I was pretty surprised when I found out,” said Rhys. “I knew about this award, but I didn’t think I would get it because so many other people are deserving. It was a nice surprise.”
The Academic All-Star award is given to students who exhibit a positive attitude and a commitment to excellence in the classroom. Each Academic All-Star is chosen by his or her principal and receives a framed certificate, free food from Sonic Drive-In and other gifts from the district.
