Two fifth-grade students are being recognized as the recipients of the February Student Spotlight. Aycock Elementary’s Torrance Terry and Clarke Elementary’s Salomon Cuevas share the honor for their exceptional contributions and leadership within their school communities.

Torrance Terry – 5^th grader at Aycock Elementary 

Torrance is a remarkable leader both in and out of the classroom. Nominated by his teachers and administrators, Torrance stands out as a student who consistently demonstrates kindness, responsibility, and a strong work ethic. He is a dedicated member of Safety Patrol, greeting every student and staff member with a warm smile and modeling positive behavior even when no adults are present.

Torrance has embraced meaningful leadership opportunities in the classroom, including organizing and leading daily morning meetings during his teacher’s maternity leave and thoughtfully planning a baby shower for her before she began her leave.

Academically, he thrives in hands-on and creative learning environments, especially in Imagineering Club where he enjoys 3D printing, 3D pen creations, Friday “free build” challenges, and exploring topics such as body systems. He is also actively involved in Beta Club and consistently goes above and beyond in all that he does.

Inspired by his father and grandfather, who work in home remodeling, Torrance has developed a strong interest in architecture and technology. He enjoys designing modern houses and even assists his grandparents, who are pastors, with designing churches. His goal is to continue growing in technology and one day become an architect, combining innovation, creativity, and purpose.

Outside of school, Torrance is deeply involved in his church community, where he preaches, sings, plays the drums, and assists with media. His faith is central to his life, and he hopes to one day visit Jerusalem to learn more about where Jesus walked and the miracles He performed. Torrance credits his grandmother as his biggest role model. She prays for him, supports him in his endeavors, and inspires him daily.

When asked what superpower he would choose, Torrance quickly responded that he would want the power of speed and multitasking so he could “do everything at once.” If given a magic wand, he said he would create shorter class periods about 30 minutes in length so he could spend more time doing what he loves. At home, Torrance is a proud big brother to his kindergarten sister, Ava, and enjoys designing projects and watching The Parkers. When asked what advice he would give others, Torrance offered simple but powerful words: “Keep trying and you will get there. Never give up.”

Through his leadership, creativity, and determination, Torrance Terry continues to make a lasting impact and represents the very best of the Aycock Elementary community.

Salomon Cuevas – 5^th grader at Clarke Elementary 

Salomon is a remarkable 5th grader whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. Nominated by Principal C’Monee’ Wilkins, Assistant Principal Dan Sandlin, Assistant Principal Intern Stephanie Sewell-Brown, and Multi-Classroom Leader Venessa Lofters, Salomon has demonstrated tremendous growth academically, socially and as a leaders among his peers since arriving from the Dominican Republic last year. From his very first days at Clarke, he embraced every opportunity to learn with enthusiasm and determination.

Salomon approaches challenges with a true growth mindset. Whether he is tackling complex math problems or diving into a new reading assignment, he never backs down from hard work. He shared that he is enjoying learning fractions because he likes to work through problems, even when they are difficult.

That perseverance is what sets him apart.

Science and reading are his favorite subjects, and he especially enjoys the I Survived book series. He also loves math for the challenge it brings. Salomon’s curiosity shines daily as he asks thoughtful questions, seeks understanding when concepts are new, and takes pride in his academic progress. He believes gaining knowledge is the key to becoming a successful person in life.

Outside of the classroom, Salomon enjoys playing soccer, with striker as his favorite position. He also enjoys basketball. His favorite movie is GOAT, which focuses on basketball. One day, he hopes to become both a professional soccer player and an electrician.

Salomon is soon to be inducted into the school’s Beta Club and serves as a role model for his classmates. He consistently shows respect, responsibility, and kindness. Recently, when another student fell outside, Salomon immediately stepped in to help them get to the nurse, making him a true Bulldog leader in action.

When asked who he looks up to, Salomon quickly shares that he admires his dad. His father’s hard work and character stand out as exceptional to him and knows he wants to follow in his footsteps.

His advice to other students reflects that same maturity: “Even if something is difficult, never give up. While you are learning, you are growing. When you become an adult, you can be someone important if you are prepared.”

Salomon says the best thing about being a Clarke Bulldog is that the staff believe in him, even on his hard days. They help him stay focused and encourage him to be a leader. That support has helped him flourish both in and out of the classroom. If he could have any superpower to support him, it would be the ability to fly, so he is never late anywhere. And if he could travel anywhere in the world, he would visit Paris, a dream destination inspired by his parents.

With two siblings attending Vance County High School, Salomon is proud to be part of a strong Vance County Schools family. His joyful spirit, curiosity, leadership and perseverance truly light up every room he enters, making him a phenomenal Spotlight Student!

Congratulations to each of our VCS Spotlight Students.