Eight-year-old Drew Sedam, a third grader at New Boston Elementary School, is brimming with curiosity, compassion, and a playful sense of humor. Whether he’s perfecting his multiplication skills, showing kindness to others, or sharing stories about his family and dog, Nitro, Drew’s personality lights up every room he enters.

Drew loves learning, and his favorite subject is math. He finds joy in discovering patterns and solving problems. “I like multiplication and division,” he says with a shy smile. Drew’s teacher, Ms. Callahan, has found creative ways to keep him motivated. “If we fill out our planners and get them signed, we earn Skittles,” Drew explains. “Two Skittles if it’s signed, one if it’s not.” His favorite color? “Red, of course,” he says, grinning.

Though math is his favorite subject, Drew also enjoys reading—especially when the books are long. “I like big books because there’s more story to enjoy,” he explains. Recently, he finished a Magic Tree House book, a series he enjoys for its adventurous spirit. His curiosity extends beyond academics to art, where he loves painting and sculpting, and to sports, which he dreams of playing professionally one day. “If I could play anything, it’d be soccer,” he says. “I used to play, but my grandma stopped taking me to practices. I hope to get back to it someday.”

At home, Drew is the youngest of four siblings and the proud uncle to a baby nephew. “It’s pretty cool being an uncle,” he says. He also shares his home with Nitro, his three-year-old dog, whose mysterious mix of breeds keeps the family guessing. “We think he’s part French bulldog,” Drew says. Nitro even has his own Christmas stocking, a small touch that reflects the family’s warm and caring dynamic.

Despite his young age, Drew has already shown a heart for giving back. When asked about his dreams for the future, he doesn’t hesitate. “If I ever become famous and get lots of money, I’d use it to help homeless people. I’d buy them houses, food, and water,” he says with earnest sincerity. This desire to help others is a cornerstone of Drew’s character, one that inspires those around him.

Drew’s enthusiasm for life extends to his interactions with the adults and peers in his world. He lights up when he talks about his school, his family, and even hypothetical questions about life’s big “what ifs.” When asked about his favorite color, he admits he loves blue and purple mixed together—what he calls a “galaxy color.” He also delights in talking about animals, sharing stories of his dog or imagining what it’d be like to own a penguin. “You could try,” he says with a laugh, when asked if having a penguin as a pet is possible.

At school, Drew looks forward to seeing his teacher, Ms. Callahan, who he says makes learning fun and rewarding. “She’s the best,” Drew says. He also appreciates how his small-town school fosters a sense of connection and care. For Drew, New Boston Elementary is a place where everyone supports one another, making it the ideal environment for young minds to grow.

In addition to his aspirations for helping others, Drew dreams of becoming an author or illustrator. “Maybe one day I’ll write books,” he says, imagining a future where his name might grace library shelves. For now, he’s content to explore his interests and enjoy the adventures of childhood, guided by his boundless curiosity and a heart full of kindness.

Drew Sedam is a reminder that greatness isn’t defined by age or achievements alone. It’s found in the way someone dreams big, thinks of others, and embraces life with an open heart. With his vibrant personality and compassionate spirit, Drew is already leaving his mark on New Boston and beyond.