A dedicated teacher told KTLA 5 this week that when students are challenged, they often rise to the occasion. The school hopes that the story of a fourth grader at San Bernardino Valley College will be just one of many future successes.
Honey Cooper, the youngest of five siblings, enjoys reading and is currently learning about decimals and fractions.
Honey, a remarkable fourth grader, has captured attention not just for her love of learning but for her extraordinary academic achievements. According to her mother, Mia, Honey is performing at a seventh-grade level in math and reading at a twelfth-grade level. Such accomplishments are remarkable for a child so young, but Honey’s journey began when she astonishingly taught herself to read at just 18 months old.
After recognizing Honey’s abilities, Sandra Rodriguez, assistant superintendent of student services at Kimbark Elementary School, remembered seeing home-schooled students take college classes.
Recognizing Honey’s unique talents, Sandra Rodriguez made a significant decision that could pave the way for future educational opportunities for public school students. Drawing from her experiences, she believed all students—regardless of their schooling background—should have access to advanced educational resources, including community college courses.
With this vision in mind, Sandra reached out to Mia to discuss the possibility of enrolling Honey at San Bernardino College. Mia embraced the idea, seeing it as an enriching opportunity for her daughter. Consequently, in February, Honey started her journey in a college-level art class, stepping into the realm of higher education as a fourth grader.
Honey’s enthusiasm for learning is contagious. When asked about managing her new college workload alongside her elementary school responsibilities, she shared insightful thoughts. Honey emphasizes the importance of finding balance in her life, indicating that the journey can be enjoyable if one manages time effectively. This perspective shows not only her maturity but also her ability to navigate the complexities of being both a student and a young individual with diverse interests.
As for her future aspirations, Honey remains open-minded and excited about the many possibilities ahead. Currently, she is contemplating careers in medicine as a surgeon, creative fields as an artist, or the fashion industry as a designer. Each option reflects her diverse interests and undoubted talents, showcasing a young girl who is truly multifaceted.