<a href="http://www.yourislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/MERCEDES-DELANEY.jpg" rel="attachment wp-att-31180"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-31180" src="http://www.yourislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/MERCEDES-DELANEY.jpg" alt="MERCEDES DELANEY" width="2035" height="3052"></a>
<p style="text-align: center;">Mercedez DeLaney
Grade: 9
School: Whale Branch Early&nbsp;College High School</p>
<b>Mercedez DeLaney</b> was nominated by band teacher Kathryn Cooke because, “Although she is a rock star student in every way, her perseverance deserves recognition. Mercedez works hard to overcome any obstacle, whether that is learning a new note on clarinet or playing by herself in front of her peers.

“Since Mercedez has been in band she has overcome her fear of playing in front of me, then the other students, and now she actively participates in class. She is the least experienced musician in her band class and she practices, pushes and challenges herself so she can participate in class and better herself on clarinet.

“Mercedez's perseverance is just one of her many wonderful qualities. She is supportive, creative, polite and overall great to be around.

"She is a voice of encouragement to the other students because she is always lifting her peers with kind words and compliments.”

Mercedez took some time recently to answer a few questions.

<b>Q: What’s your favorite subject and why?</b>

A: My favorite subject is reading because it’s an easy subject for me.

<b>Q: What clubs and activities are you involved in?</b>

A: I’m involved in band.

<b>Q: Who do you admire and why?</b>

A: I admire Ms. Cooke because she is always willing to help me and be there for me.

<b>Q: What’s your favorite thing to do outside of school?&nbsp;</b>

A: Go home and relax.

<b>Q: What’s your favorite movie?</b>

A: “Moana.”

<b>Q: What’s your favorite TV show?</b>

A: “Steven Universe.”