In the bustling halls of New Boston Elementary, it’s not uncommon to hear the sounds of laughter, the shuffle of tiny feet, and the occasional burst of enthusiasm that only a nine-year-old can muster. Among these vibrant young students is Warren Wilkens, a fourth-grader who stands out not just for his height—taller than his older sister Savannah, by the way—but for his infectious love of learning and his admirable aspirations.

Warren’s journey through childhood has been one filled with joy, curiosity, and an ever-growing list of accomplishments. Whether it’s nailing the winning catch in a baseball tournament or tackling math problems that leave others scratching their heads, Warren approaches every challenge with a mixture of determination and humility. But don’t let his unassuming nature fool you—this kid is a math whiz in the making.

It’s clear that Warren has a knack for numbers, and while he might shy away from picking a favorite teacher, it’s no secret that his math teacher, Mrs. Matlick, has a special place in his heart. “Math teachers are my favorite because math is more of my thing,” he says, trying his best to remain diplomatic. Yet, as any fourth-grader knows, even the most even-handed politicians have their favorites.

Beyond his academic prowess, Warren is a young man with a plan. Unlike most kids his age who are still figuring out whether they want to be astronauts or zookeepers, Warren already knows what he wants to be when he grows up: a police officer. “Officer Evins and just all the cops that protect us inspire me,” Warren shares. For a child who sees the world in terms of kindness and safety, it’s no wonder he looks up to those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.

Warren’s admiration for Officer Evins, the school’s resource officer, is palpable. When asked what he sees in Officer Evans, Warren doesn’t hesitate. “He protects us. He will save us if we’re in trouble,” he explains with the earnestness that only a child can possess. It’s this kind of respect and recognition that fuels Warren’s own desire to one day don the uniform and serve his community.

But Warren isn’t just all work and no play. He’s a regular on the flag football field and a standout in baseball, where he typically plays first base or takes up a position just behind the pitcher. While he might not have turned a double play just yet, his reflexes and quick thinking led to a game-winning catch that his team will remember for years to come. “I jumped up and made the catch,” Warren recounts, beaming with pride. “It was the winning play of the tournament.” It’s clear that whether he’s on the field or in the classroom, Warren gives it his all.

Despite his young age, Warren already understands the value of kindness and generosity, traits he believes are essential to being a good friend. “I’m kind,” he says with a confidence that belies his nine years. And he’s right—Warren’s friends would surely describe him the same way, a testament to the positive influence he has on those around him.

As Warren looks forward to his tenth birthday this November, it’s clear that he’s a young man with big dreams and an even bigger heart. His vision for the future, both his own and that of the world around him, is refreshingly simple yet profound. When asked what he would do if he could change the world with the flip of a switch, Warren doesn’t hesitate. “I would make everyone kinder and stop the fights,” he declares. It’s a wish that, coming from anyone else, might seem naive, but from Warren, it feels entirely possible.

In a world that sometimes seems dominated by division and strife, Warren Wilkens stands out as a beacon of hope. His commitment to kindness, his love for learning, and his desire to protect and serve make him a young person worth celebrating. Mercer County is lucky to have him, and as he continues to grow and pursue his dreams, there’s no doubt that Warren will make his community proud.