Recognizing Four Outstanding Students from Talcott Elementary

Kelly, Angela, Gabriela, and Arianna are four outstanding future graduates from Talcott Elementary School in West Town. Whether it was adjusting to a new language or stepping out of their comfort zone, all four of these students have overcome multiple obstacles during their time at Talcott, motivating them to excel in all aspects of school. With these lessons in mind, they look forward to attending high school this fall, where they’ll be ready to take on any challenge. Learn more about them below. 

Meet Kelly, who will be attending Clemente High School

What obstacles have you overcome at Talcott? 

An obstacle I’ve had here has been the language barrier and learning English. A teacher I’ll always remember is Ms. Romero because she’s helped me a lot and has given me lots of positive energy.

How do you feel about attending high school in the fall, and what are you looking forward to? 

I’m nervous because there are going to be new people, so it might be hard to socialize. High school is big and scary, but I’m looking forward to learning about the new activities, learning new languages, and having fun!

What message would you give to Talcott’s staff, students, and future eighth graders? 

I would tell the teachers to continue supporting students, so they’re motivated to continue pushing forward. To the future eighth graders, stay focused, maintain who you are as a person, don’t get poorly influenced by your friends, and aim to get good grades! 

Meet Angela, who will be attending Lincoln Park High School

What school assignment or project have you enjoyed the most at Talcott? 

When we were learning about the Constitution. There was a project where we had to pretend that we were lawyers in a courtroom to solve a murder case and learn how it all works. I really enjoyed that, because it was really fun to learn more about the real-life experiences lawyers and other people have. 

How do you feel about attending high school in the fall, and what are you looking forward to? 

I’m very excited to start a new phase in my life, but I’m also very scared and nervous because it’s something new. I’m excited for all the activities, like homecoming. Even if I’m not the best at socializing, I want to get to talk to new people and make new friends.

What message would you give to Talcott’s staff, students, and future eighth graders? 

To the staff, teachers, and classmates, I’d say I’m really thankful for all the support and love I’ve gotten from them. To the future eighth graders, focus on yourself and on your grades. Spend as much time with your friends as you can, but don’t let them influence you as much, and try to be yourself as much as you can.

Meet Gabriela, who will be attending Westinghouse High School

What obstacles have you overcome at Talcott? 

An obstacle I’ve overcome has been presenting in front of the class in English. I wasn’t very good at it, but I’ve definitely gotten better. 

How do you feel about attending high school in the fall, and what are you looking forward to? 

I feel scared and nervous at the same time because I feel like I’m going to get lost. But I really want to learn how to speak French and learn more about history. 

What message would you give to Talcott’s staff, students, and future eighth graders? 

To the students and staff, I’m thankful because they’re really nice people, and they’re really helpful to everyone, and they’re really sweet. To the future eighth graders, be yourself, do your work, and ask for help when you really need it. 

Meet Arianna, who will be attending Northside College Prep

What obstacles have you overcome? 

I’ve become a little more outgoing because I’ve always been introverted. I guess I had to overcome that, and the teachers supported me through it. One of the teachers that I’m going to remember is Ms. Romero because she’s helped me through a lot. 

How do you feel about attending high school in the fall, and what are you looking forward to? 

I’m really nervous because it’s different, but I’m also kind of excited to meet new people and have new experiences. I’m very excited about the robotics program and swim team my school has. 

What message would you give to Talcott’s staff, students, and future eighth graders? 

The students and staff helped me a lot, and I’m where I am because of them. To the future eighth graders, I’d say the teachers are nice, they’re kind, they’re understanding, and as long as you keep up with your work, you guys will have a fun year.