Eighth-grader Silas Hays, from Mercer County Junior High, is a young man with a thoughtful perspective on life, a talent for hands-on creativity, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. As he prepares to transition to high school, Silas reflects on the experiences and inspirations that have shaped him.

Silas’s love for learning is evident, especially in his two favorite subjects: English Language Arts and social studies. While he excels in advanced math—having taken algebra since fifth grade—his heart belongs to reading and exploring history. “I love reading about different worlds and possibilities,” he says, describing his current book about time travelers fixing historical mistakes. The concept intrigues him so much that he muses about what he would change if he had the chance: “I’d try to stop presidential assassinations, like JFK’s. Who knows how different the world might be if those events hadn’t happened?”

His interest in history and the environment reflects his thoughtful outlook. Silas admires the late President Kennedy’s environmental initiatives and imagines a healthier Earth if those efforts had persisted. “Nature is beautiful,” he says. “It’s worth protecting for as long as we’re here.” Silas lives just outside Aledo and is captivated by the region’s natural beauty, from its fields to its rivers. This appreciation fuels his commitment to environmentally friendly practices, like recycling and making choices to keep the planet healthy.

Beyond academics, Silas is deeply involved in activities that challenge him physically and creatively. He has been a dedicated member of Mercer County’s cross country team for two years, a sport he credits his older sister, Ingrid, for inspiring him to join. “She’s always been happy-go-lucky and willing to take chances,” he says of Ingrid, a senior and teaching cadet at the high school. Her enthusiasm encouraged Silas to push his limits and discover a love for running.

In addition to cross country, Silas plays the oboe in the school band, a choice that combines technical skill with artistic expression. “The oboe uses a double reed made of bamboo,” he explains. “You have to soak it in water before playing to soften it, which helps create the vibrations that produce sound.” This attention to detail reflects his methodical approach to everything he does.

Silas also has a knack for building and fixing things—a talent inherited from his parents. His mother, an optometrist, and his father, a hardworking steelworker, have shown him the value of precision and dedication. “My dad’s work ethic and my mom’s focus inspire me every day,” he says. With these influences, it’s no surprise that Silas dreams of a career that combines carpentry and technology. “I love working with my hands and using cool gadgets,” he says. “Maybe I’ll build environmentally friendly houses or create new tools for sustainable living.”

Despite his many talents, Silas remains grounded and curious about the world around him. He’s not tied to any particular brand or technology, instead valuing practicality and innovation. “I like gadgets that solve problems,” he says, reflecting his pragmatic mindset.

Silas’s academic accomplishments extend to his love for reading, where he’s a standout in his class. Last year, he earned over 500 Accelerated Reader (AR) points, the highest in seventh grade. While his reading preferences lean toward fiction and action-packed stories, he’s always open to new genres that broaden his perspective.

When asked who inspires him, Silas doesn’t hesitate to name his family. Along with his parents and sister, his younger brother, Jonah, a sophomore, plays an important role in his life. Together, they’ve fostered a supportive environment that encourages Silas to dream big while staying true to his values.

As Silas prepares to enter high school, he’s looking forward to new challenges and opportunities to grow. “I might start with a trade and then go to school later,” he says, keeping his options open. His ability to blend curiosity, creativity, and practicality makes him a young man full of promise.

Silas Hayes’s story is one of balance—between the past and the future, nature and technology, work and wonder. Whether he’s running cross country, crafting with his hands, or imagining ways to improve the world, Silas approaches life with thoughtfulness and heart. His journey is just beginning, but it’s clear he’s already making his mark.