Queen Creek student is School Connect finalist

Katherine Mecham Barney Elementary sixth grader Nico Bishop was recently honored as a School Connect Student Champion finalist — a title awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional leadership and a heart for serving others.

“I felt really good. Like I had accomplished something really great in my life,” Bishop stated in a district press release.

The School Connect Student Champion honor is reserved for “students who go beyond the classroom to cheer others on, lead by example, and positively impact their school communities.”

School Connect is a nonprofit organization that connects schools with their communities.

The Queen Creek Unified School District works to empower students to develop strong character, take initiative and support one another — values Bishop displays daily at his school.

“My favorite part (about school) is all the friendly people here — how they help people grow as a person,” he stated.

Bishop was nominated for his kindness, positivity and commitment to inclusion.

“I help my friends, and I love to include others and many people. I just love being a good guy,” he stated.

Being a leader, Bishop noted, comes with its challenges but also its rewards.

“I learned that it takes a lot of responsibility, but once you get the hang of it, it's pretty easy.”