Meet Jose Pacio and Tim Tang

Whiz Kids’ names and ages: Jose Pacio, 14, and Tim Tang, 16

Whiz Kids’ school: Harrison Preparatory School

Jose’s key to awesomeness: ASB advisor and Spanish teacher Amy Stapleton said despite being new to the school this year, Jose, a freshman, has quickly proven to his peers that he is friendly and outgoing while demonstrating his work ethic and intelligence to teachers.

“His key to awesomeness is how caring he is,” she said.

In a school with students ranging from sixth through 12th grade, it isn’t uncommon for high-schoolers to prefer to spend their time with their counterparts instead of the “little kids,” but Jose continually stands up for younger students and makes strides to connect with them.

“He also encourages his peers to connect with them as well, making Harrison Prep a more enjoyable, inclusive place to be,” she said.

Tim’s key to awesomeness: Tim, a junior, is a member of Harrison Prep’s leadership class and on the leadership team of the school’s Ultimate Frisbee club. Stapleton said that his “ethical nature and ability to reflect” make Tim stand out.

“He is one of the rare high-school boys with the confidence to reflect on his actions and use his reflections to improve himself,” she said. “He is not afraid to stand up to his peers to what he believes is right and ethical.”

In the Ultimate Frisbee club, Tim is one of the only veteran members who regularly encourages the growth and performance of newer, younger members, and he does this by invoking what Stapleton calls “friendly banter and with ease.”