Being named the valedictorian would be a massive accomplishment for any high schooler.
After all, it’s typically given to the student with the highest academic rankings in their class.
For someone to receive this honor, they must carry a GPA of 3.9 to 4.0 throughout their high school years (which would not be easy).
Sometimes, more than one individual is named valedictorian. B
ut regardless of the number, these people take their schoolwork seriously.
Sure, some students have natural intellect, but even with that, to receive this particular honor, they must have a stable and quiet place to study.
Not long ago, people worldwide learned about one specific high school valedictorian. But his story is special.
After reading this, that’s a name you won’t soon forget.
You see, for years, Martin and his mother have been homeless.
While they had a roof over their head occasionally, they spent most of their time being homeless.
Even when staying in a shelter, it was usually crowded and noisy.
For someone in high school who needs to study, that’s not a perfect environment.
As a matter of fact, many kids in shelters don’t even attend school.
Despite being in and out of homelessness throughout high school, Martin was determined to graduate.
But this Florida teen did much more than that.
He remained focused on his studies even when it was challenging.
By staying dedicated, Martin graduated with his class at Philip Randolph Career Academy.
He was also named the valedictorian of his class.
Especially given his situation, that’s quite an accomplishment.
When asked how he felt, Martin had this to say.
“It kind of gave me a jolt in my chest a little bit, so it was a good feeling. It means a lot and it gives me a sense of all I’ve done and all I have accomplished was worth it.”
Come to find out, Melva, Martin’s mother, was in a horrible marriage.
She had to flee for her and her son’s safety, and that’s just what she did.
Her ex-husband ultimately landed in prison for 40 years.
His crime? Murder.
Melva did her best to provide what Martin needed.
But often, it wasn’t enough.
Within two years of fleeing, they lived in several different shelters across five states.
Eventually, they landed in Jacksonville, where Martin enrolled in high school.
Unfortunately, Melva and Martin ended up homeless two more times while he was in high school.
All she wanted was to have a home for her and her son.
But that was easier said than done.
At one point, they sat inside a McDonald’s without anywhere to go.
It was that bad.
Melva desperately searched for a place.
She made multiple phone calls to various organizations.
As she puts it:
“I was on the phone calling people, calling organizations, and by the grace of God, we got into a shelter that day.”
At any time, Martin could’ve given up on school.
He could’ve ended up on the streets like so many other kids his age.
But this young man had a dream of going in a different direction.
So, he never wavered in putting his schoolwork first.
From his freshman to senior year, Martin served as class president.
He was wise enough to realize something important.
“At my school, there are a lot of other smart people there too. And if I let myself slip, they would take it from me in a second.”
All kids who think they can’t beat the odds should pay attention to Martin Folsom’s story.
He had nothing, but that didn’t sway him from doing what he needed to do.
He’s a true inspiration.
As for his mother, she’s beyond proud.
Martin deserves to be praised for his amazing accomplishment – and there’s no doubt he will continue to make great achievements in his life.
Watch the video below to learn more about this inspiring story!
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Source: PEOPLE, YouTube – ABC 13 Houston
