March Character Counts Profile: Respect

Student feature: Kendrick Lacerda

Nominated by: Principal Jennifer Yacoub and Assistant Principal Laura Long

Kendrick Lacerda, a fourth grader at Sandra Tovar Medeiros Elementary School, is proof there are still children who know the meaning of the word respect.  His actions in and out of the classroom were recognized through the Turlock Unified School District’s Character Counts program for the trait of respect.

Lacerda, who is legally blind, does not let his disability become a factor in his daily life. 

“Kendrick is one of those kids that don’t let any obstacles stand in his way,” said Medeiros Assistant Principal Laura Long.  “He’s out there playing basketball and he’s even involved in the student council.  He never feels sorry for himself.”

Lacerda says he learned the trait of respect through his own life experiences and involvement in school.

“Respect is treating others how you would like to be treated,” said Lacerda.  “It’s about being a good person inside and not disrespecting people.”

On top of being a well-rounded student, Lacerda's list of activities and accomplishments is most impressive.  Not only is he involved in student council, he is also a part of the Kindness Club at Medeiros and plays the violin.

“Kendrick is an absolute delight,” said Long.  “He demonstrates every good character trait that we emphasize.  He’s well liked and respected by his classmates because of it.  He is a model citizen and student.”

In his free time, Lacerda enjoys playing soccer, riding his bike, playing video games, and he likes to play with his dog Patron.  When he grows up, he hopes to work in a job that involves computers.