Ten-year-old Matthew Richards is known for being a polite and conscientious student who’s committed to his school work.
That reputation helped the fourth grader earn the title of Chapman’s Retreat Elementary School’s Academic All-Star for the 2018-19 school year.
“Matthew is a fourth grader who never gives up,” said CRES Assistant Principal Caron Johnson. “He finishes every task that is asked of him, and he always has a positive attitude. Matthew’s teachers say he puts his mind to the task and doesn’t stop until he is done.”
Matthew credits his teachers with much of his success at Chapman’s Retreat.
“I love all the teachers, and I think they’re really nice,” said Matthew. “I struggle with reading, and I’m just thankful for all the reading specialists who’ve helped me.”
Matthew’s favorite subject is science because he likes doing all the fun experiments. He’s also involved in numerous groups and activities like running club, chorus and Cheetah Council.
“Cheetah Council is like a student council where we find ways to help people in the community,” said Matthew. “I like to help people who are in need. Our new drive is about donating blankets, sleeping bags and socks to flood victims.”
Matthew also enjoys sports and likes to be creative in his spare time, which is why he knows of at least two jobs he’d love to have when he grows up.
“First, I want to be a football player,” said Matthew. “But if that doesn’t work out, I want to work for LEGO because I like to build different LEGO creations.”
Until then, Matthew says he continue to work hard as he finishes out his fourth grade year, and he’s grateful for all the teachers who are helping him along the way.
“I really like this school,” said Matthew. “They’ve helped me out a lot. I was shocked when I won this award. It makes me feel happy and excited.”