Harlem High STAR student honors her biology teacher

Harlem High STAR student Amber Colquitt had never considered herself a science lover until she reached high school.

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As a freshman, she took biology from Stephanie Arrington. The course and its teacher changed her life.

"I was very apprehensive about it," the 17-year-old said. "At first, I didn't want to speak up or raise my hand. But after a while, it started to interest me. I started to ask more questions and get more involved in discussions."

After her biology class, Amber eventually decided to pursue a career as a genetic counselor -- someone who counsels those born with genetic disorders such as speech impediments or limited motor skills.

Amber credited much of her newfound love for science to Arrington, her STAR teacher.

"She is an amazing teacher," Amber said. "She made everything we learned relatable and interesting."

Originally from south Georgia, Arrington didn't immediately pursue a career in the classroom. It wasn't until after she earned a master's degree that she decided to teach.

Now in her 16th year at Harlem High, Arrington called Amber one of the best students she has ever taught.

"And it's not just science," Arrington said. "Amber is good at all of it.

"Whatever she sets her mind to, she excels at it. There's nothing she can't do."

Arrington's statement is verified through Amber's extra-curricular activities.

The senior is a varsity cheerleader; belongs to the Beta Club, National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society and the Drama Club; and she was in the cast of the school's recent award-winning one-act play.

"I've always had a love for literature and drama, but science-related careers are more stable," Amber said of why she chose to pursue a job in the medical profession. "There's always going to be a need for people in medicine."

Amber scored 1980 on the SAT and shared the STAR student title with fellow senior Zachariah Smith. Zachariah and his STAR teacher, Timothy Easler, will be featured in next Sunday's News Times .

First Baptist Church of Evans is seeking vendors for its annual community yard and craft sale April 17. Call (706) 863-1228 or e-mail fbcecommunityyardsale@yahoo.com.

Grovetown Elementary School is seeking vendors for its spring carnival on May 1. Spaces cost $20 and need to be paid by April 23. E-mail Janet Wood at cclgwood@charter.net or call (706) 447-5015.

Vendors are being sought for the eighth annual

Grovetown Heritage Festival, set for April 24. For information, go to www.grovetownheritagefestival.com, or call Dick Wiebe at (706) 868-5904.

Crafters are wanted for the spring craft show to be held April 24 at Marvin Methodist Church, Wheeler Road at South Belair Road, Martinez. For information, call Carol at: (706) 863-1970.