Community Corner
Whiz Kid: Amanda Aragon
Earlier this year, it was a $1,000 Niles Chamber of Commerce Dollars for Scholars Award; now it's an American Legion Citizenship Award.
Whiz Kid's Age: 13
Whiz Kid's School: St. John Brebeuf School
Whiz Kid's Accomplishment: Academically, spiritually and athletically, Amanda has had quite an 8th grade school year. In November, she was awarded first place in the VFW’s essay contest entitled, “Does Patriotism Still Exist?” Not only did Amanda win first place at the local school level, but she went on to win first place at the regional level as well.
Find out what's happening in Niles-Morton Grovewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
In January, Amanda and her two partners earned 1st place and Best in Show at their school for their science fair project. This was the third time in three years that Amanda and her partner(s) received these distinctions.
In April, Amanda was honored at the Niles Chamber of Commerce Night of Roses event where she was one of six recipients of a $1,000 high school Dollars for Scholars scholarship. Dollars for Scholars winners are chosen based on their transcripts, service to school, parish and community, extracurricular activities, honors and awards, letters of recommendation and a 500 word essay, which Amanda wrote on bullying.
Find out what's happening in Niles-Morton Grovewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
In May, Amanda’s school’s softball team won their Division and made it to the championship. Also last month, Amanda participated as a member of Mary’s Court at SJB’s annual May Crowning, and she was awarded a 2010-2011 Citizenship Award from the American Legion.
Whiz Kid's Key to Awesomeness: Amanda is an honor roll student who keeps a full schedule. She has been a Girl Scout for eight years and has earned her Silver Award. She is an altar server, a member of Jr. St. Vincent DePaul, and is an active member of St. John Brebeuf’s Youth Ministry group. She is also the Student Council Treasurer and a three time winner of St. John Brebeuf’s “Peacekeeper” award, which is the highest honor that can be bestowed on a student. Amanda loves sports. She plays soccer, basketball, softball and volleyball and runs track and field. She will be attending Niles North High School in the fall and hopes to be on their volleyball, basketball and softball teams. She plans to pursue a teaching career.
