One Student's Journey

I'm so proud of this young man. Last night he was recognized as an Outstanding Senior of the Year by? Illinois Network of Charter Schools at its Charter Excellence Awards sponsored by Invest For Kids . My admiration for Jalil does not come from the recognition he received, but from the continuous effort he has exhibited during his four years at Legal Prep Charter Academy . Jalil came to Legal Prep because he wants to be a lawyer, and he has pursued every opportunity available to him to make that dream a reality - from participating in the Negotiations final competition during his freshman year, to winning Best Oralist during the Mock Trial Finals in his second year, to interning for two summers with?Justice Lyle at the Illinois Appellate Court.? But, what makes Jalil truly special is his care and concern about others and his willingness to put his heart into everything he does. That's why you'll see Jalil playing Santa at our community Santa Room each December, volunteering for service projects with the National Honor Society, speaking before the Chicago?Board of Education about the value of charter schools, and encouraging classmates to push past their perceived limits and try new adventures like Camp for All Kids . Through it all, Jalil has faced challenges and setbacks, but has persisted and succeeded.? I know the future is bright - for Jalil and the rest of us - because he represents the next generation of lawyers and leaders. Congratulations Jalil!?