Imagine moving to a new country when you’re in the third grade. With the exception of a few relatives, you are alone in this new country. You know very little of the language.

It would be an intimidating experience for most third-graders. But Bryan Hernandez, a Crowell Elementary School student, has been recognized for succeeding despite the challenges.

Bryan made the courageous, conscious, personal decision to come to the United States and live with his aunt because he wanted to seek a better education and a better life.

In October 2012 he enrolled at Crowell, leaving behind the rest of his family in Mexico, the place he was born and raised. Bryan, the middle of five children, is a dreamer. He wants to become an immigration lawyer someday.

Recently Bryan received the “Every Student Succeeding” award from the Stanislaus County Office of Education, which recognizes children who have overcome enormous challenges and gone far beyond expectations.

In less than two years this amazing young student has overcome economic, emotional and language barriers. His linguistic and academic success has been outstanding. By the time he was in the first trimester of the fourth grade he was earning threes and fours out of a 1 to 5 grade point system in core learning areas.

His inquisitive nature lends to his enthusiasm for learning, and he is never afraid to raise his hand.

“He is helpful to his classmates and assists them when it is needed,” said Crowell Principal Linda Alaniz. “He excels in mathematics and loves to help other students understand skills. He has been a tremendous asset to his classmates. Bryan is able to give back to his classmates as he knows that last year, he depended heavily on others to translate some of the academic concepts while he was learning English. In such a short time, he is able to help others with the subjects that he feels comfortable in and is proficient. Byan displays excellent character as evidence through his outstanding behavior in the classroom, often ending the week with outstanding marks.”

In his free time, Bryan is involved in his church and recently performed in a Christmastime play through Westside Ministries. He has expressed that he is considering becoming involved in youth baseball.

Bryan lives with his aunt and her family. His aunt has been an actively involved parent in school.She has never allowed any of her own children or Bryan to settle for anything less than excellence. She continually supports, loves, encourages and pushes Bryan to do his best.

Bryan continues to strive, and hopes to one day earn enough money as a lawyer to bring his immediate family to this country.