LOIUSVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A Southern High School senior was recognized at graduation Tuesday for overcoming adversity.
Xavier Ross has autism but pushed passed barriers to become an honor roll student.
"What I had to do is I had to ask for help, learn to advocate for myself, become an awesome leader and try to help others if they need the help," Ross said before Southern's graduation ceremony Tuesday at Freedom Hall.
Ross was in the school band and on the bowling team at Southern. And he earned "post secondary status" by becoming Credit Union National Association Certified. But he said his greatest achievement was being recognized for how he treats others.
His school acknowledged his big heart. Ross said he wants to make his school a better place each day by focusing on kindness.
"I'm so happy to be kind to others because I never want to let anyone down," he said Tuesday. "I like to cheer everyone up if they're feeling down or lonely. I'm always there for others."
Ross plans on taking a year off after graduation and then hopes to pursue a career in film.
Jefferson County Public Schools said nearly 7,000 seniors will cross the stage to receive their diploma this year.
JCPS Coverage:
- JCPS responds to audit blaming district, bus route service for transportation disaster
- 'Mind-boggling' | JCPS parents face uncertainty over start time changes
- JCPS board approves proposal to change start times for about 40 schools
Copyright 2024 WDRB Media. All Rights Reserved.
