Hingham Whiz Kid: John Joyce

Name:    John Joyce, Grade 6

 School: 

 Key to Awesomeness: Acting on Inspiration

 Accomplishments: 

Sixth grader John Joyce was honored at a State House Ceremony on May 3 where "students were recognized for outstanding letters written to their favorite authors” said John’s mom, Kathy Joyce.

John was the only student representing HMS.

His letter to author Rick Riordan was selected in the top 1 percent of letters in the state  in the 2011 Letters About Literature (LAL) national contest.

 John’s winning letter describes how his mom brought home one of Riordan’s books, and in the below excerpt, he shares how it shaped new experiences.

In his letter, John writes:

“So, as you can see, Mr. Riordan, your book helped me to discover the world of fiction and develop a love for reading.  It also provided me with a way of making friends and showed me how to help others. I developed leadership skills by organizing the book club and aspired to things that I never imagined possible. Thank you for being a great writer and teacher. You inspired me, and for that I will always be grateful.”

According to his mother, Kathy Joyce, John is typically strong in Math and Science.

“This year his writing skills have blossomed with the help of his ELA teacher, Miss Nee," Joyce said "She has done a great job motivating the students with fun and interesting assignments.”

John's talents extend beyond writing though. A violinist for over 7 years, John will perform in the orchestra pit for his school play.

 He explained that typically, a student plays either a string instrument in orchestra, or a wind instrument in band. Next year John will continue to play his violin in orchestra, and also play clarinet in band. 

Part of BaYS (Bay Youth Symphony), John auditions this month for the most advanced of the youth symphony’s three levels. He is currently one of the youngest musicians in the mid-level. His sister is the youngest.