It’s not often that one uses the word “masterpiece” when referring to the artistic productions of a 10-year-old child. Yet St. Monica teacher Alexis Ferraiolo’s former student Emmi Huynh proves herself worthy of this epithet.
“... when she puts time and effort into her [artistic] work, she creates imaginative masterpieces,” her third-grade teacher said.
Emmi, a fourth grader at St Monica, 1720 W. Ritner St., also demonstrates academic talent and applies herself determinedly to all subject areas.
“She showcases constant effort, interest and study skills that allow her to be academically successful,” Ferraiolo said.
The resident of the 2300 block of South Hicks Street is the recipient of a number of awards, including the Critic’s Choice Award and three others for placing first in an art contest. The tremendous drive of the young student may be due to the influence of her role model, her Aunt Tony, an eye doctor in Dallas, Texas.
“Emmi’s aunt has taught her a valuable lesson in life and is a prime example of ‘If you study and put your mind to it, you can achieve anything,’” Ferraiolo said.
During her free time, Emmi enjoys experimenting with different drawing techniques as well as playing with her younger sister, Emma. She also helps out at her mother Hannah’s nail salon, Hannah Nails & Spa, 2253 S. Hicks St., where she cleans, greets customers and answers phones.
“Emmi is a diligent student who has the drive and determination to accomplish huge things in her lifetime,” Ferraiolo said.
At the moment, Emmi’s future choices are split between two different drives - her artistic endeavors and her love for animals, but the youngster has plenty of time to choose between her desired careers of fashion designer and veterinarian.
“Emmi would love to use her artistic ability to create clothes, but she also loves animals,” Ferraiolo said. “Her ultimate goal is to become both.” SPR
Emmi Huynh 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. 123 or e-mail editor@southphillyreview.com.
To see more outstanding youngsters, visit the Youth Appreciation Award photo gallery.
At a school where praise and distinction typically goes to those that excel in music, Noelle McManus also is being recognized for her academic achievements.
At Sacred Heart of Jesus School, 1329 E. Moyamensing Ave., eighth-grader Anthony Nguyen is a model of leadership both in and outside of the classroom. An extremely hard worker, Anthony is the school’s Student Council president and dedicates himself to the Sacred Heart Youth Ministry after school.
At the early age of 10, fourth-grader Jordan Cerone refuses to limit herself to just one talent. The precocious student at St. Monica, 1720 W. Ritner St., applies herself to excelling in every field: Academically, artistically and athletically.
Both in and out of the classroom, 13-year-old Marcquise Kennedy-Best treats others with kindness and courtesy, and it has earned him the respect of his peers. The eighth grader at Norris S. Barratt School, 1599 Wharton St., has a discipline and humility that will surely lead to future successes.
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