Learning All About a Phenomenal Soon-to-Be Graduate of Fernwood Elementary School

If you were to create a list of all of the most exceptional members of the CPS Class of 2025, it wouldn’t be complete without Makyah. She is one of the many amazing eighth-graders at Fernwood Elementary School, and her story is special because she’s been a student at Fernwood since she was in pre-k. Thus, she describes Fernwood as a place that has seen her at every stage of growing up so far. She explains that it is an extremely welcoming environment full of people who feel like family. 

We had the awesome opportunity to interview Makyah as she reflects on everything she’s accomplished in elementary school. Get to know her more below. 

What are your interests both inside and outside of the classroom? 

Inside the classroom, I’d say my best subject is math. This year, I had the opportunity to learn algebra. I feel like I’m proficient in that, and it’s become my favorite class. Outside of the classroom, I like to be involved in my community, such as by participating in Chicago Park District programs. I enjoy roller skating too. It’s pretty fun, and I’m good at it. 

How do you think your teachers and peers would describe you? 

I think they would describe me as energetic, determined, and hard-working. I know that sometimes I might talk a little bit too much with my peers, but it’s only because I’m really interested in some of the topics we cover at school. I think some of my peers might look up to me without me even knowing it. I try my best to get my work done and do my best at everything I do. 

In what ways have you changed at Fernwood over the years, and in what ways have you stayed the same? 

I’ve definitely grown a lot and become more mature. However, I think my determination has stayed the same. I’ve always been striving for the best, even when I was little. 

What stands out as one of your favorite memories at Fernwood? 

Fernwood has a tradition where the eighth-graders pass the torch to the seventh-graders. One person takes the torch on behalf of the seventh-grade class, and I was picked to be that person. It was such a special and emotional occasion because it really felt like growing up. It was a really big moment. 

You are headed to Jones College Prep next year. What are you looking forward to most about high school, and how does that connect with your long-term goals? 

I’m very excited about all the opportunities. With Jones being such a big school, there will be so many people there who can help me with so many different things. I feel like my future career will probably be in finance since I like math. High school is definitely a great opportunity to make sure I stay focused and remember what my ultimate goals are. 

Is there any advice you want to share with the future eighth-graders at Fernwood who will follow in your footsteps? 

Stay true to yourselves. I think it’s important to be a leader so you can lead the way for others who may not find their own paths. By staying focused, you can be the best versions of yourselves. 

If you could sum up your time at Fernwood in one word, what would it be? 

Exciting. When I look back on all my years at Fernwood, I am overwhelmed with a feeling of love. I feel like that comes from being excited to move on and do bigger things because I know that Fernwood is the reason why I’m here today.