Academic All-Star – Daniel Acevedo, Summit High

Published April 19, 2018

The Academic All-Star award is given to students who exhibit a positive attitude and a commitment to excellence in the classroom. Each Academic All-Star is chosen by his or her principal and receives a framed certificate, free food from Sonic Drive-In and other gifts from the district.

After a rough start to his high school career, Summit High School student Daniel Acevedo is turning his life around.

Administrators say the 17-year-old has come a long way in the last year which is why they chose him as the school’s 2017-18 Academic All-Star.

“Daniel has really overcome some hardships in his life,” said Summit Principal Sarah Lamb. “I think last year he may have thought there was no way he would graduate from high school. But Daniel has worked himself out of several situations to get on the right track. He is so respectful and thankful for all the help his teachers have been able to provide.”

Daniel says his troubles began his sophomore year when he stopped caring about school and began making some bad choices.

“I was at rock bottom,” said Daniel. “I lost my relationship with my parents, and I didn’t care if I graduated or not. At one point, I just looked at myself in the mirror and decided I want to go to college and I want to have a family of my own someday.”

Daniel says his teachers played a big role in getting him back on track.

“Summit High School is like a big family,” said Daniel. “Whenever students are feeling down the teachers want to lift them up. They’ve really helped me a lot, and I’ve learned from everyone.”

Outside of school, Daniel says he enjoys playing soccer and spending time with his family. Although he’s not sure where he’ll go, Daniel plans to attend college next year and says being named an Academic All-Star is one of the highlights of his high school career.

“I’m a little shocked by all this,” said Daniel. “I can’t believe I’m getting interviewed right now. I’m excited to tell my parents, and I’m also proud of myself. It makes me even more motivated and determined than I already was.”