South Houston Intermediate School eighth grader Kenneth Marshall was recently named as the school’s January Junior Optimist of the Month.

Active in sports, Marshall was chosen as an optimist because of his attitude and drive to be successful not only in sports but in academics as well, said the school’s peer facilitator Gail Ward.

“We look for students to serve as optimists who have positive attitudes and are good role models,” Ward said. “Kenneth serves as a role model because he makes good grades as well as participates in a variety of activities.”

Marshall said he is honored to serve as a Junior Optimist for his school.

“I feel like I won some type of lifetime award,” said Marshall. “I am grateful for teachers and administrators nominating me and am glad they see me as a role model for other students.”

Marshall is the school’s football team’s running back and quarterback, the basketball team’s center and the relay team’s anchor. Outside of school, Marshall volunteers at a homeless shelter in downtown Houston called “Bread of Life.” He also participates in fundraisers and plays football for the Southside Cowboys, which is in the Pop Warner League.

“Kenneth always comes to class with an attitude to succeed,” said science teacher Emmitt Drumgoole. “The same drive and determination he displays on the football field, he displays in my classroom.”

Marshall said he is in hopes of receiving a college football scholarship after high school and ultimately wants to be a professional football player.

“The Optimist of the month is a good program,” Marshall said. “It gives students a chance to express their feelings. I’m grateful for this opportunity.”