Norwood Patch's Whiz Kid of the Week

Nominator's name: Adam Burke

Whiz Kid's Name: Jonathan S. Burke

Whiz Kid's Age: 10

Whiz Kid's School: Balch Elementary School

Whiz Kid's Accomplishments: Jonathan plays travel and intramural basketball and fall and spring soccer. He is gifted on the soccer field with a quick foot and a sharp eye, and last year discovered his passion for basketball. Jonathan's personal commitment, his will to continaully give 110 percent of himself earned him the coveted Coach's Award after his team won the Metro West Basketball Tournament last year. Jonthan's mother Lisa said, "It was one of the best moment's of his life. He thought someone else was going to get it, he was absolutely thrilled."

Jonathan also consistantly maintains great grades and attends a music program before school. Jonathan last weekend crossed over to become a Boy Scout after receiving the Arrow of Light, the highest honor to be bestowed to a Cub Scout - and the only honor allowed on a new Boy Scout's uniform. It is an honor he is very proud of as he works towards his goal of becoming an Eagle Scout like his uncle Stephen.

Whiz Kid's Key to Awesomeness: Jonathan's mom said that by personality, Jonathan is friendly, loving, incredibly giving, funny with a scarastic wit, adventurous, competitive and a team player. He loves being a big brother to Adam and his two half-sisters. When asked, Adam describes Jonathan as "a beautiful person."

His godfather, Jimmy said, "Jonathan is an incredibly intelligent boy. His gift for giving to others is one of his many strengths. His prowess as both a student and athlete only enhance a very balanced and well rounded young man. He is a loving caring sensitive son, brother nephew and godson."