Star Student - Shaquice Floyd

Edward H. White High School, 10th-grade

Shaquice has managed to succeed in school and in life, in spite of suffering extremely impaired vision and growing up in a single parent household with four children. Regardless of suffering ridicule as a child due to her impaired vision, she has set in her mind to always do her best.

In school, Shaquice is an honor roll student, taking honors courses. In spite of her limitations, she is a member of the Edward H. White Naval Junior ROTC, participating actively in drill, physical fitness and other ROTC activities. During the 2012 Air Show Recruiting Day, Shaquice successfully maneuvered the climbing wall, seemingly unhampered by the fact that many of the small handholds and footholds were barely visible to her. Circumstances which are roadblocks to the success of many are motivation tools to Shaquice.

At home, she is the oldest child and therefore must take on the responsibility to assist with rearing her younger siblings. She also helps extensively with chores around the house including cooking and cleaning. With her mother recovering from surgery, the responsibility on Shaquice has increased, but she continues to carry the load.

When not studying, cleaning, cooking or mentoring, Shaquice enjoys writing, reading, dancing and running. She hopes to be a famous writer one day and use every day experiences to build her topics. Shaquice loves a challenge and takes them all head-on.

However, with all of her successes, Shaquice does not forget others in need. She is noted as a great sighted guide who helps her accomplish even more. She also serves as an advocate for those who suffer ridicule for their differences, boldly standing in for them when they are not strong enough to stand for themselves.

Shaquice is worthy of being recognized for her triumph over the odds.