Sixth grader Elijah Whitaker has a talent for bringing people together. On the playground, he’s the kind of teammate who makes sure no one sits on the sidelines, whether they’re playing basketball, football, or kickball. “I like to include everybody,” he says with a modest smile. As a member of the Cairo Elementary basketball team, Elijah’s not just a strong player—he’s also an outstanding friend, showing Pilot Pride in the most genuine way.

Elijah moved to Cairo from Cape Girardeau in third grade, finding a new home at Cairo Elementary. Adjusting to a new school isn’t easy, but friendships blossomed quickly for him, starting on the basketball court. “I was outside playing, and some other kids came over and asked if I wanted to join their game,” he recalls. Four years later, these teammates—Keyonanu, Darian, Jameerari, and Bryson—are still some of his closest friends. For Elijah, sports have always been more than just games; they’re opportunities to connect with others.

On the basketball court, Elijah plays shooting guard, and he’s already made some memorable shots, including a hook shot from half-court during a game. “Everybody went crazy,” he says, smiling at the memory. But what matters most to him isn’t just scoring points—it’s making sure everyone feels included. “I like to help others, make sure everybody’s okay,” he says.

Elijah’s kindness extends beyond the playground. He’s a proud member of Cairo Elementary’s “EKG” program, which promotes empathy, kindness, and gratitude. For Elijah, those qualities come naturally. “I try to help everybody get their work done,” he says, adding that his teachers, Dean of Students Mr. Blisset, and others, have inspired him to always give his best. “They don’t let us slack or be lazy—they push us to do better.”

His family has been his strongest foundation, teaching him the importance of treating others with respect and compassion. “My mom, my grandpa, my grandma—they’re all about kindness and helping people,” he says. It’s clear that Elijah has embraced these values wholeheartedly. He often helps out around his neighborhood and lends a hand whenever he sees someone in need. “One time, I helped a woman carry her groceries. She was struggling, so I just did it,” he recalls.

Academically, Elijah is driven. His grades reflect his hard work, with three A’s and a B-plus, along with a goal to raise a C up to a B. And although he’s dedicated to his studies, he has big dreams for his future. Elijah hopes to join the NBA one day, with the NFL as a second choice. If neither works out, he’s considering a career in medicine. “I think I’d like to be a doctor,” he says thoughtfully.

Outside of sports and academics, Elijah’s interests are as diverse as they come. He has a passion for music, especially jazz and hip-hop, and hopes to learn the tenor saxophone. His interest in jazz was sparked by his grandparents, and he’s eager to explore this art form. “Jazz sounds really good,” he says, nodding.

For Elijah Whitaker, Cairo Elementary is more than a school; it’s a place where he feels connected, supported, and valued. “We have great teachers and awesome students,” he says. “Everybody here tries their best.” When asked to describe his school, he sums it up with a characteristic positivity: “Good teachers, helpful students, and fun.” Elijah’s pride in his school is matched only by his enthusiasm to be part of its community, a place he feels grateful to belong to.

Elijah Whitaker exemplifies the heart of Cairo Elementary, bringing warmth, inclusivity, and a positive spirit to everyone around him. His story is a testament to the strength of Cairo’s community, a place where students like Elijah shine, inspire, and build connections that will last a lifetime.