Scholars: Two local students earn chance to go to college, scholarships

There are many conclusions to be drawn from the news that two Wayne County students have earned Gates scholarships to go to college.

But of all the sentiments that could be expressed about the announcement, the one that applies most readily to these young people and their families should be "pride."

Zacchia Cobb of Goldsboro High School and Marques McPhail of Eastern Wayne were not just handed the full-ride scholarships.

They earned them by not only getting good grades and achieving in high school, but also by being active and contributing members of their community.

Behind every good student are supportive, loving, strict and demanding parents.

And that is likely the case here, too.

The families who produced these talented young people have reason to stand tall today, too. It is not easy to raise a child, period. To raise one who achieves so much and with so much promise is a real accomplishment.

So, in essence, the students' parents earned this honor, too.

There is lots of criticism of students these days -- and some of it is deserved.

But when there is good news, an example of what is possible at any school if a student is motivated and determined to achieve, we need to celebrate it.

And today is that kind of day.

Published in Editorials on April 24, 2012 10:51 AM