Canton Whiz Kid: Courtland Priest

Name: Courtland Priest

Age: 12

School: Galvin Middle School

Key to Awesomeness: Honoring all the expressions of himself.

Accomplishments: Seventh grader Courtland Priest wanted a good grade on his assignment. But beyond that, he said he wanted to write a good poem that paid tribute to his Dad–who taught him all he knows about art.

The inspiration behind Courtland’s poem, The Artist, propelled him to first place in Fresh Ink’s contest. Fresh Ink is Galvin Middle School’s literary magazine.

Julie Ghostlaw, Courtland’s English teacher and the magazine’s co-advisor, described him as a well rounded young man who is truly an asset to Galvin Middle School. “He really adds value to a class with his wide range and depth of knowledge and experience,” she said.

The high honors student–earning an “A” minimum in all subjects – is quite the artist himself. “Art is one of the things that stimulates my brain most,” Courtland said.

He draws beautifully, according to Ghostlaw. Courtland said he pours his vision into his work, whether writing or drawing.

A basketball player, Courtland enjoys music. A pianist for half his young life, he also plays percussion in the school band. 

Courtland reads a lot, which gives him prior knowledge, he said, especially in science class.

While he admires Hawkins and Einstein, he is aware of staying open. “It is good to look up to someone, but I do not think one should practice favoritism,” the youngster stated when asked, “Is Einstein your favorite scientist?”

Courtland aspires to be an engineer. “I would like to design and build airplanes,” he said.

 “I have always been captivated by flight. I feel something that would fly like a bird would be very interesting to design.” Large military aircraft are of particular interest.

 “The Artist” was published in the latest edition of Fresh Ink, unveiling at the Barnes and Noble in Walpole tomorrow, June 16, at 6:30 p.m.