Eighth-grader Matthew Sanker was recognized as Darlington's Optimist Club Student of the Semester on May 2.
Learning Specialist Kristen Bell introduced Sanker at the awards presentation, calling him a "very genuine, caring and passionate young man."
"One attribute that makes Matthew so special is having battled with both dyslexia and ADHD in the classroom. However, he has learned to embrace this special part of what makes Matthew Sanker who he is today," Bell continued. "I have known Matt for several years. As a sixth-grader, I saw an extremely hard-working student, who just needed a few tools to insert in his 'toolbox' for academics. As Matthew is now completing his eighth grade year, I am witnessing a confident young man who has become an exceptional advocate for himself and ready to tackle high school utilizing all of the tools collected in his toolbox."
Sanker is involved in football, basketball, soccer and track and field.
Read the full text of his speech below:
Good afternoon! My name is Matthew Sanker, and I have my parents, grandparents, and Mrs. Bell here with me here today. I go to Darlington School, and I am in the eighth grade. This year I participated in football, basketball, soccer and track.
Sports have meant alot to me in middle school and I plan to continue playing them. In my three years in middle school I have learned how to have a balanced schedule and stay organized. Learning and paying attention never came natural to me. I have had to sit in the front of some of my classes so I could learn and not fall behind. When I was in the second grade I was diagnosed with dyslexia, which made it difficult to read and write. At first I didn’t know what to expect, and I felt like I was not able to overcome the challenges that were brought with it.
When I came to Darlington School, I started working with the Learning Center, and I was taught through hard work I can overcome it. My Learning Center teacher, Mrs. Bell, has made me realize that I am no different, and I can do anything I want. I am exited to move up into high school and continue to progress in my favorite sport, basketball. Basketball has always been a escape for me to clear my head. I’m excited for the opportunities that the next four years in high school will bring me. I hope to play college basketball and then become a lawyer. Thank you for your time!
