Student of the week:Piper Perez

A confident but quiet Burns sixth grader is in the spotlight for the student of the week. Not for her confidence, but for the work and dedication that gave it to her.

Piper Perez, daughter of Kenny and Lisa Perez, and older sister to Peyton, is a reader. So often is the case when the spotlight shines on a smart and well-educated child, it is books that are found center stage.

"I like adventure series," Piper said as a small excited smile escapes her usually mellow face. "I was reading 'The Wolves of Beyond' and 'The Elijah Project,' but I am done with both of those."

And Piper doesn't keep the...