M. Agnes Jones 5th Grader a 'Natural Leader'

Without threats or the slightest display of intimidation, Amin Abdullah helped calm an anxious, overactive student during lunch. Such demeanor is not always found in 11 year olds, but this M. Agnes Jones Elementary 5^th grader has always been the exception; he is, indeed, a natural leader.

Undoubtedly, examples set by his nine older siblings – whom Amin has always observed intensely – influenced his growth.

“Amin is a loving, supportive type of child,” his mother, Fatimah Abdullah, said while sharing how he would spontaneously hug her when, last October, the family's other son died in a car accident.

Amin's teacher Stephanie Englert describes him as “a positive role model for his peers."

"He assists other students when needed," Englert said, "and tries to encourage others to behave appropriately.”

His list of activities and academic accomplishments only add to his stellar personality. Amin plays football, basketball, track and field, and baseball. This well-rounded student is also “serious about his academics,” Englert wrote on his Whiz Kid nomination form.

During the 2010-11 academic year, Amin won the 007 Achievers Award, which is given to promising students. He is on the Principal's List, and won 1^st Place in a recent chess competition. Amin learned to play chess in an after-school program at Jones Elementary. Already, he has stumped college students and adults in matches.

Amin is passionate about art, as well. One of his favorite pastimes is drawing. In fact, he, along with 12 other students, will represent Jones Elementary in the District Invitational Arts Fair.

Amin, we acknowledge and honor your great spirit!

Congratulations, you are our Cascade Patch Whiz Kid of the Week!

Editor's Note: Know a talented, hard-working, achieving youth or youth organization in southwest Atlanta or South Fulton?

If so, don't forget to nominate him or her for Cascade Whiz Kid of the Week. Submit your nomination in our comment box below or e-mail the information to janita.poe@patch.com.

Be sure to include all of the following information:

▪Nominator's Name

▪Nominator's E-Mail

▪Whiz Kid's Name

▪Whiz Kid's Age

▪Whiz Kid's School

▪ Whiz Kid's Accomplishment

*Whiz Kid's Key to Awesomeness (what made him/her successful?)

If your nominee is selected, we'll contact you and assign a photographer to take a photo or you can e-mail one of your own.