Fifth-grader awarded for excellent attendance
Save for a couple days back in kindergarten, fifth-grader Andrew Ludwig hasn’t missed a day of school since he was 5 years old.
“I felt like it was a goal,” 10-year-old Ludwig said. “In second grade, I started feeling that [going to school every day] is something to shoot for.”
Even on mornings when Ludwig was sick, his mother said, he would beg her to let him go to school. More surprisingly, Athena Ludwig said her son has maintained his attendance record on his own accord – she hasn’t had to do much to encourage him to go to school.
“I’m proud of him,” she said. “It’s good. He’ll be responsible when it comes time to get a job.”
Everyone in the Truckee Elementary School office was surprised about Ludwig’s record, she added.
Principal Cathy Valle awarded the student for his exceptional attendance record Thursday in a lunch at Round Table Pizza.
“Most importantly, it shows his family values education, and they’re building a good foundation for his future,” Valle said.
Ludwig – whose favorite subject is “grossology,” in which he learned about bodily functions – is active out of the classroom as well. He likes bike riding, skating, and he’s on the Squaw Valley Ski Team.
Next year, Ludwig will enter a new frontier: middle school.
“I’m kind of glad,” he said. “Next year, we’re going to be learning more algebra. It sounds challenging.”
Ludwig said he plans to keep his remarkable attendance record all through college.
His secret to not missing school?
“Eat a lot of protein and fruits,” he said. “Also, try to keep bike riding and skating.”
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