Going above and beyond

NEWS > YOUTH & SCHOOLS

Add Comment | Comments: 2 | Posted Jun. 16, 2010

Photo by Greg Bezanis

While the average third-grader may not be worried about identifying herself as a leader, St. Monica School student Juliana Wharton prides herself on being an exception.

It’s something teacher Alexis Ferraiolo has witnessed on a daily basis inside the halls at 1720 Ritner St.

“I nominated Juliana Wharton because she is an excellent student that always puts forth her very best and goes above and beyond what is expected,” the third-grade teacher said. In particular, the 9-year-old demonstrates an aptitude in both reading and writing.

“She is a very fluent reader and analyzes stories for key themes and elements,” Ferraiolo said. “Juliana has an exceptional imagination which enhances her writing skills.”

The creative young student also has received her share of individual honors, including the Student of the Month award for the category of honesty, Student of the Week, Critic’s Choice Award and the Four-Star Club for excellence in effort and behavior.

Outside of school, the resident of the 2700 block of South Colorado Street exhibits a passion for dancing while attending class at All That Jazz.

“Her favorite class is gymnastics because she enjoys the mental and physical challenges of the sport,” Ferraiolo said.

She also volunteers her time and effort to help clean St. Monica’s convent. Yet she attributes all her early success and commendable qualities to her mother and role model, Kim.

Although it may be a tad too early for the college talk, Juliana is considering future studies in the field of speech pathology so she can help children.

By always striving to go above and beyond what is expected, there is no limit as to what this third-grader can accomplish.

“Juliana is inquisitive and proves that anything can be done if you put your mind to it,” Ferraiolo said.