Emily didn’t just graduate from sixth grade, she graduated with honors. Her friends and family would have been proud just to see her strut across the stage and receive her certificate of promotion, but at her 6th grade promotion ceremony Emily was awarded the American Legion Award, one of only two such honors bestowed upon 6th graders at her school. The award, accompanied by a certificate and a heavy two-and-a-half-inch medal, is given to graduating students for recognition of “the possession of those high qualities of courage, honor, leadership, patriotism, scholarship and service.”

Emily’s eyes bulged and her lips mouthed the word, “What?” as her name was announced and she was called to the podium to accept her award. The school had announced the honor to us, but asked us to keep it a secret from Emily.

The 6th grade teachers at her school nominated and ultimately selected Emily as the recipient for the honor, “after thoughtful deliberation,” according to the Principal’s speech.

“Throughout the year she demonstrated the initiative and creativity that are two of the qualities required for this award,” the speech continued. “She was always willing to explore and find different solutions to problems. She is a student that stands up for her beliefs and never wavers.”

Emily didn’t stop there though. She also received the Presidents Award for Educational Excellence and a District Honor Roll award. The President’s Award came with a framed certificate and a letter, both signed by President Barack Obama.