Athlete, Student of the Week

Owen Grant has been named Student of the Week at Prairie Central Jr. High by his social studies teacher Lynette Bazzell. Owen, a seventh grader from Fairbury, is the son of Aaron and Melissa Grant.

“Owen is a great student,” Davis said. “He is always prepared for class and does excellent on his class work. He is very respectful and kind to everyone.

“Owen also has a very impressive amount of historical knowledge and understanding. He is a pleasure to have in class.”

Owen competes in Scholastic Bowl and wants to continue his education and attend college.

Athlete of the Week

Natalie Alverson has been selected as the Athlete of the Week at Prairie Central Jr. High by her volleyball coach, Shannon Brown. Natalie, an eighth grader, is the daughter of Michelle and Kyle Alverson of Fairbury.

“Natalie is always positive and uplifts the team,” Brown said. “She is a leader on the team and everyone's biggest cheerleader. Natalie gives 100 percent in everything she does.

“Her attitude and inspirational talks to our team has earned her the nickname 'Ted Talk.'”

Besides volleyball, Natalie is involved in basketball, Cares Clowns, student council, track, band and choir. Natalie's favorite food is manicotti.

Natalie wants to join LACC in high school to earn her CNA, and go on to Illinois State University and earn bachelor's degree in nursing.

This article originally appeared on Pontiac Daily Leader: Prairie Central Junior High School Athlete, Student of the Week