Youth Appreciation Award: Top-rated pupil

NEWS > YOUTH & SCHOOLS

Add Comment | Comments: 1 | Posted Jun. 7, 2011

Mark Negro

Photo by Greg Bezanis

Mark Negro is a student who has his hands in everything. By age 12, the eighth-grader at St. Monica School, 16th and Porter streets, has excelled both inside and outside of the classroom.

“Mark is the student every teacher wishes he or she had the pleasure to experience at some point in their career,” Joanne Rucci, one of his eighth-grade teachers, said.

Mark has a history of being an excellent student. He has been a Four-Star Student for conduct and effort since kindergarten and was inducted into the National Junior Honor Society, which is for seventh and eighth grades.

While Mark has garnered a 96 general average, he has a 97 average in mathematics and is part of the school’s Mathletes Team.

Some other extracurricular activities of his include being an altar server and assistant coach for the junior varsity basketball team. Mark plays basketball and soccer as well.

Mark, of the 1800 block of Porter Street, looks up to his father, Mark Negro Sr., as his role model for success.

“My father is a great man and an even better dad,” Mark said. He goes on to describe his role model as caring, athletic, selfless, hardworking, loving, and a good Catholic. “One day, I hope that I will grow up to be just like my father.”

Mark is well on his way to being like his dad. He is a courteous and respectful individual who gets along with everyone.

“His personality is such that touches everyone he comes into contact with,” Rucci said. “Mark is always willing to lend a hand and volunteer in school and in the community.”

Upon graduating middle school, Mark will attend Center City’s Roman Catholic High School. Afterward, he hopes to attend Villanova University after which he would like to become an attorney or NBA player.

Mark Negro will receive a $150 savings bond. If you are a teacher or full-time educator and would like to nominate a student (first through 12th grades), call 215-336-2500 ext. 117 or e-mail editor@southphillyreview.com.

To see more outstanding youngsters, visit the Youth Appreciation Award photo gallery.