Community Corner
Whiz Kid: Laila Edwards
The first-grader at Roxboro Elementary School recently made a hockey league all-star team and reads at a third-grade level
Cleveland Heights Patch Whiz Kid of the Week: Laila Edwards
- A first-grader at
- Plays hockey for two leagues in Cleveland and Pittsburgh
- Effort, not winning, is most important
Skating came so natural. So when she decided to follow in her sister’s footsteps and join a peewee hockey team, it surprised no one when success in the sport came just as easy.
Laila Edwards plays in the youth hockey league for the Cleveland Heights Parks and Recreation Department, often as the only girl, and was recently picked to join the league’s all-star team. She also plays for the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite all-girl tournament league on a traveling team.
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She's a center, and said her favorite thing to do is score goals, but winning isn’t her priority.
“Hockey is a fun sport. It’s not something you win or lose that matters. It’s how much effort you put into it,” she said.
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A profound thought from the pint-sized player, but that, too, comes as no surprise. Roxboro Elementary School Principal Tara Grove said Laila has “exceptional academic abilities” and reads at least two to three grade levels ahead.
“She’s a superstar in every way,” Grove said.
Reading is important, Laila said.
“You can actually learn more, because if someone asks you a question you can answer them,” she said.
Do you know a Whiz Kid? Send your nominations to Cleveland Heights Patch editor Michelle Simakis.