Raynard Gibson
Fifth Grade, Colonial Drive Elementary School
Raynard is a Sergeant with his school’s Safety Patrol and is trusted to take on important responsibilities in this role ensuring his classmates’ safety. He also assisted the custodian who was injured and helped the PE Coach clean school grounds. Raynard also stood up to a bully and reported the behavior to administration. At home, Raynard has been a big help over the past year and during this pandemic. He has taken on the “big brother” role ever since the day his little brother was born. In addition to taking care of a newborn, Raynard’s mom was overwhelmed with work and taking classes at night. Knowing this, Raynard tended to his baby brother to allow his mother to get much needed rest. His family has had to endure difficulties this past year and therefore, Raynard made the decision to give up his football aspirations and not participate on his football team so he could take on additional responsibilities at home. He changes diapers, feeds his baby brother, helps his sister with homework, takes on additional house chores and even learned how to cook simple meals, making sure to pack his mom’s lunch for the next day. Raynard displays maturity beyond his young age and knows the importance of prioritizing the wellbeing of others, especially during these difficult times.