Whiz Kids: Yazmin Spearman and Skyla Serra

Last Friday at the , Yazmin Spearman, an 8th grader, was presented with a certificate on behalf of the U.S. Congress in recognition of her Black History Month essay about Stevie Wonder and Marian Anderson.  Rep. Joe Courtney was on-site to give the award to Yazmin.  After the school-wide ceremony, Patch sat down with Yazmin to talk about being a Whiz Kid.

How did you choose to discuss Stevie Wonder and Marian Anderson?

I found an internet site about famous African-Americans.  I decided to write about Stevie Wonder and Marian Anderson because they both overcame odds and I can relate to that.

How long have you been at ISAAC?  What do you think of the school?

I've been here since 6th grade.  I like ISAAC because they like creativity and allow students to express themselves.  The teachers care about you.  I think students are more mature when they leave to go to high school.

Are you looking forward to high school next year?  Where are you going? 

I am going to Fitch High School and, yes, I am looking forward to it.

What activities do you do after school?

I take guitar lessons and I am the flute section leader in the school band.  I am also in the swing choir, which you have to try out for.

How did you feel when you found out that you had won the essay contest? 

I was ecstatic.  I hadn't thought about winning.  I received a letter when I made it into the top ten.  I am so happy that I did win!

Patch also sat down with the runner-up of the contest, 7th grader Skyla Serra, to discuss the essay contest and find out more about her.  She also received a certificate, presented by Rep. Courtney.

How did you feel when you were made runner-up? 

It was a great experience.  This is one of the first times I've won something like this.

Who did you choose to write about and why? 

I chose my teacher Mr. Andrews and Harriet Tubman.  I read a book about her in the 5th grade.  They've both had major accomplishments in life.

What do you think of the ISAAC school? 

It's a great atmosphere here.  Everyone's very friendly.

What do you do when you're not at school?

I belong to the Asela program.  We can do our homework and get extra help if needed.

What are you doing for your summer vacation this year? 

I am going to summer camp, where I've gone for five years.  I hope to be a CIT (Counselor-in-Training) this year.

The essay contest included student essays from 22 schools in Connecticut's Second Congressional District.  Both Yazmin and Skyla were supported by their families--as well as the entire student body--at the ceremony, which took place in the music room of the ISAAC school.  Patch joins the ISAAC community in congratulating Yazmin and Skyla on their accomplishments!