While high school gives students many opportunities to succeed, the greatest is being named valedictorian. As the highest level of academic achievement, that’s a huge deal. For someone to receive this honor, they must carry a GPA of 3.9 to 4.0 throughout their high school years.
Sometimes, more than one individual is named valedictorian. But regardless of the number, these people take their schoolwork seriously. Sure, some students have natural intellect but even with that, to receive this particular honor, they must have a stable and quiet place to study.
Recently, people around the world learned about one specific high school valedictorian. But his story is special.
Martin Folsom
After reading this, that’s a name you won’t soon forget. You see, for years, Martin and his mother have been homeless. While they had a roof over their head occasionally, they spent most of their time being homeless.
Poor study environment
Even when staying in a shelter, it was usually crowded and noisy. For someone in high school who needs to study, that’s not a perfect environment. As a matter of fact, a lot of kids in shelters don’t even attend school.
Defying the odds
Despite being in and out of homelessness throughout high school, Martin was determined to graduate. But this Florida teen did much more than that. He remained focus on his studies even when it was challenging.
An awesome outcome
By staying dedicated, Martin graduated with his class at Philip Randolph Career Academy. But he was also named the valedictorian for his class. Especially given his situation, that’s quite an accomplishment.
A little insight
When asked how he felt, Martin had this to say.
“It kind of gave me a jolt in my chest a little bit, so it was a good feeling. It means a lot and it gives me a sense of all I’ve done and all I have accomplished was worth it.”
A little bit of history
Come to find out, Melva, Martin’s mother, was in a horrible marriage. For her and her son’s safety, she had to flee and that’s just what she did. Her ex-husband ultimately landed in prison for 40 years. His crime? Murder.
Working to support her son
Melva did her best to provide what Martin needed. But often, it wasn’t enough. Within two years of fleeing, they were living in several different shelters across five states. Eventually, they landed in Jacksonville at which time Martin enrolled in high school.
Facing more problems
Unfortunately, Melva and Martin ended up homeless two more times while he was in high school. All she wanted was to have a home for her and her son. But that was easier said than done. At one point, the two of them sat inside a McDonald’s without anywhere to go. It was that bad.
Reaching out for help
Melva desperately searched for a place. She made multiple phone calls to various organizations. As she puts it, “I was on the phone calling people, calling organizations, and by the grace of God, we got into a shelter that day.”
Never drifting
At any time, Martin could’ve given up on school. He could’ve ended up on the streets like so many other kids his age. But this young man had a dream of going in a different direction. So, he never wavered in putting his schoolwork first.
A natural-born leader
From his freshman to senior year, Martin served as class president. He was wise enough to realize something important. “At my school, there are a lot of other smart people there too. And if I let myself slip, they would take it from me in a second.”
What an inspiration
For all kids who think they can’t beat the odds, they should pay attention to Martin Folsom’s story. He had nothing but that didn’t sway him from doing what he needed to do. He’s a true inspiration. As for his mother, she’s beyond proud.
You can learn more about this fine young man and his journey to valedictorian by watching the video below.
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