STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: Passage Middle School 7th grader Jacob Clark
Treats others with care and respect
Posted: April 17, 2025
Jacob Clark approaches each part of his school day the same way. The seventh grader at Passage Middle School arrives on time, prepared and ready to learn.
Whether it's classwork, volleyball or music, Clark is disciplined and conscientious about his role in his school community. He is known as a leader who supports, cares for and respects his fellow students as well as teachers and staff members.
Seeing his friends and trying his best to learn new things every day are his favorite parts of school, according to Clark. He started playing the trumpet this year and plans to stick with it.
His work ethic is evident in all aspects as he puts in the effort to excel in the classroom, on the volleyball court and in the music room.
"I enjoy volleyball because I get to actually have fun and spend time with my teammates and make more friends doing that," Clark said. "And the trumpet, I just have fun because my Mom did it and I'm just following in her footsteps."
Clark keeps a positive outlook on education and voluntarily accepts criticism in order to enhance his learning across all areas, according to school leaders at Passage. He is considered to be a great example of how a Passage Panther should conduct themselves and can always be relied upon to follow the PATH - prepared, act appropriately, take responsibility and have respect.
He has advice for constructively using negative feedback that may come our way.
"You've just got to think about what it is, and if they're wrong or right, and just breathe," Clark said.
One unique aspect of Passage that Clark said he enjoys is the many languages spoken by his classmates, who have helped him learn some Spanish.
He actively participates in discussions, avoids distractions, and strives for academic success, showing genuine care for his grades. Describing his personality as nice and respectful, Clark said he tries his best never to be mean to other students.
"Talk to people," Clark said of finding ways to enjoy school. "Figure out how to make good friends."
Middle school can be tough, but staying focused and finding activities to enjoy can make it a little easier, he said.
"It's going to be challenging, but you've just got to try your hardest and find friends and work together with them to push through the hard times that you'll find in middle school," Clark said.
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