Cece Kluesner is a sixth grader at Macomb Schools, but she already has a long list of interests, ambitions, and dreams—and she’s not ready to narrow them down just yet.

Science fascinates her, thanks to her parents, both of whom have degrees in science and teach in Bushnell—her mom in elementary school and her dad in high school science. "I’ve been thinking about becoming a marine biologist,” she says. “But if that doesn’t work out, I might go into acting."

That contrast—between science and the arts—defines Cece’s approach to learning. She’s excited about the new independence of middle school, where she gets to move between different classrooms and learn from multiple teachers. “I like that I’m not just in one room all day,” she says. “I get to go to different classes, and all my teachers are really nice.”

Her love for performing arts is a recent discovery. Last summer, she starred in her first-ever play, a production of Newsies, where she played a young newsboy. It was a big step for her, and while she was nervous at first, she found her voice on stage. “I had to sing a lot, even though I didn’t have a solo,” she says. “I really liked it.”

Beyond acting, Cece stays busy with art and reading. She’s part of an after-school art club, where she loves working with clay sculptures, and she’s an avid reader, particularly drawn to the Twisted Tales book series. “I’ve lost track of how many I’ve read,” she admits. “But I really like them.”

Her curiosity for the world extends beyond school and hobbies. When asked who inspires her, she doesn’t hesitate: her family and friends. “They really inspire me to keep going and to pursue my dreams,” she says.

Despite her excitement for the future, Cece is already feeling a bit sentimental about leaving middle school behind. “I’m excited for high school,” she says. “It seems like a really cool place, and I can’t wait for the new classes and teachers. But I kind of don’t want to leave this place either.”

Some of her favorite memories are tied to family traditions, especially their annual visits to Macomb’s Art Center during Christmas. “We always go to see the wonderful trees, and it always brings a smile to my face,” she says.

As for the biggest, most magical wish she could make? Cece doesn’t hesitate: “I’d make it so my cat could speak human language.” She laughs, imagining the chaos. “If I picked him up, he’d probably be screaming at me to put him down.”

From science and acting to art and reading, Cece is exploring every possibility Macomb Schools has to offer. While she doesn’t know exactly where life will take her, one thing is certain—she’s going to make the most of every opportunity along the way.