Student of the Week: Lyford High School's Mario Castillo
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At just 17-years-old, Mario Castillo wears many hats at Lyford High School.
His teachers and parents say he’s doing more than performing well in the classroom, he’s also proving to be a leader.
Mario is a student athlete, a leader, and a mentor who ranks at the top of his class. He’s set to graduate with an associate’s degree, and has even completed a CTE Health Science Internship.
Mario is also captain of the tennis and cross-country teams, where he’s earned several titles that include district champion in varsity tennis mixed doubles, and two-time all-star cross country runner.
“Being the captain, I'm allowed to help others develop their skills as well as develop my skills and just communicate with others effectively,” Mario said.
But his impact goes beyond sports.
“In my FFA program, I participate in public speaking,” Castillo said. “Through Hope Squad on campus, I work on spreading mental health awareness and just bringing joy to the campus."
As part of the superintendent's student advocacy council, Mario traveled to Austin to advocate for public schools and mental health.
“I met with different representatives and senators within the district I live in and where my school is located, and we expressed ourselves and our thoughts on the topic, as well as, we asked them where they stand on this point,” Mario said.
All that hard work is preparing him for what comes next.
Mario has his eyes set on becoming a neurosurgeon.
“There's so much to learn, you can never go wrong with learning more about different diseases and finding cures, and I want to be part of that solution that will affect others,” Mario said.
Mario said his biggest motivation is his family, and the opportunity to help others.
This fall, Channel 5 News will be highlighting 10 students who shine in and out of the classroom.
The students have already been selected.
Click here for more Student of the Week stories.
Watch the video above for the full story.
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