Sara Hinesley is a 3rd grade student at St. Petersburg. John's Regional Catholic School in Frederick City, Maryland.
She is the first student of the school to win this award. Up to now, the 10-year-old girl still does not understand why her victory in the national calligraphy contest has received so much attention. Although born with a lack of hands, he can still paint, make clay, write English and some common languages. This year, when learning Chinese characters, she said that it was quite easy.
Ms. Cheryl Churilla, Sara's 3rd grade teacher, said: "I have never heard this girl say 'I can't', she is a small star. Sara has completely solved everything other people gave him and she always tries her best."
The annual Nicholas Maxim Award is awarded annually to two outstanding students. One award for printing and one award for regular writing.
" Sara has never worn a fake brace. When asked to help or use a tool that could reduce some tasks - such as cutting paper with scissors - she always refuses," said Cathryn Hinesley, her mother. The girl's mother also added that Sara is independent, she knows that she can do it and will find her own way to do it. And she really did a lot.
To write, Sara held a pencil between her arms. She focused on the shape of letters, points and curves. "Writing with Chinese characters feels like creating a work of art. I like the way the letters are formed. It's like doing art," Sara shared.
Sara moved from China to the US about four years ago to live with her new family. When she moved in July 2015, she could speak and write in common Chinese. She then quickly learned English with the help of her sister Veronica.
In her free time, Sara likes to paint around her like sunflowers. She loves swimming and playing with Veronica, and when she was 10 years old she joined the school's chess club. She always wants to try her hand in all fields.
Sara Sara's spirit is a testament to human perseverance and spirit. "Every day I was surprised by what she could do and how she chose to do it. The girl always tries to find a way to overcome all obstacles to complete the task" - the girl's mother said.
Sara will receive her national award, a trophy, at an awards ceremony on June 13. The prize also comes with an amount of 500 USD. "She was the first student from St. Petersburg. John received the Nicholas Maxim award, I feel very excited and proud" - Principal Kathy Smith said.
