Local Academic Competition Recognizes Two Local Achievers
It is always a great feeling when your child excels academically. It is especially thrilling when they show a love for these areas as well. We always need more minds in the science and math fields. The recent attention over the U.S.’s rankings compared to other countries in these areas has been a cause for concern, so it always encouraging hearing of regular kids right here in Cullman that are showing great promise.
The Alabama Christian Education Association held their annual academic competition recently. Private schools from around the state participated in subject tests in areas such as math, science, English, history, Spanish and the Bible. Students in grades 3-12 took the tests online and first, second and third places were recognized for each grade.
Aaron Perry, son of Jill Perry, placed second in the math division out of all sixth graders at ACEA participant schools in the state. Aaron’s friend, Chandan Makwana, placed first in the science division for sixth grade. Both boys were very excited to hear that they did so well in the competition.
“Very excited, I wasn't expecting it. The test was really hard and there were a lot of things I didn't think I knew,” Perry said.
Makwana also spoke about his surprise at hearing the news.
“I felt excited. I was really hoping to place in at least the top three, but I didn't know if it would be possible,” he said. “I knew there would be a lot of other students taking the same test. I knew they would probably do well too."
Aaron’s mom, Jill Perry, is a local educator and speech therapist. She was extremely pleased to hear that her son had done so well.
“Yes, I am very proud. As an educator myself, I encourage my sons to make the most of school. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that Aaron had placed that high in the competition, but he is a math mind like his dad and brother!”
When Chandan’s mom, Amy Makwana, was asked how she felt when she heard her son took first out of so many other sixth graders in the state, her answer was one of shock and utter pride.
“We've always told him, from the time he started kindergarten, to do his very best and to always glorify God in all that he does. I know he works hard in school and always does his very best, but I was very shocked to see the exam results,” Amy said.
“He had already set his mind on getting in the top three before he ever took the test. He got into the car the afternoon after the exam and he told me he thought he had done very well. We were all thrilled to see his hard work pay off.”
While college and career decisions are still a long way off, both boys are interested in someday pursuing careers that play to their obvious strengths. Chandan stated that he would be interested in computer programming or working in a lab. Aaron might someday be interested in an engineering job.
These young boys deserve recognition for their great academic accomplishments. It is no doubt that their success can be attributed to their supportive and
encouraging parents and teachers. The boys had the raw materials, but their parents and dedicated teachers helped to mold these minds and nourish their strengths.
