UCS student honored by statewide organization for exceptional children

A Utica Community Schools high school student is among seven students honored for academic accomplishments by a statewide organization that honors exceptional students.

Anna Forest, an Eisenhower student was the recipient of the Academic Yes I Can! Award from the Michigan Council for Exceptional Children at its conference in Grand Rapids.

The mission of CEC is to improve the education and quality of life for children and young adults with exceptionalities.

Forest lost her vision as a junior high school student.

"Although Anna had to learn Braille, use special equipment and comprehend new concepts by listening, she never seemed overwhelmed and kept a positive attitude," said Teacher Consultant for the Visually Impaired and Diana Coles, who nominated Forest. "The tenacity she showed in accepting the challenges of attending school without sight was nothing short of inspirational.