Fifth-grader Coleton Mueller's journey at Unity Point began with uncertainty. When he transferred to the district in second grade, he couldn't read—a challenge that might have limited his academic path at another school. Instead, Unity Point's dedicated teachers saw potential and refused to let him fall behind.

"When I was in first grade in another school and was supposed to be reading, but they weren't teaching that good, and I didn't know how to read," Coleton explains. "When I came here for second grade, they got me back up to a good level. Now I'm at a higher-than-average reading level."

That transformation from struggling student to confident learner represents exactly what Unity Point strives to achieve for every child. But Coleton's story extends far beyond the classroom walls, showcasing how the school's supportive environment helps students excel in all areas of their lives.

While Unity Point built his academic foundation, Coleton was simultaneously pursuing his passion for soccer. Starting at age three, he developed his skills through recreational leagues before joining competitive club teams. Last year, as a fourth-grader, he achieved something remarkable: his 3v3 soccer team, the Hawkzillas, made it to the national championship tournament in Alabama, where they earned third place.

"We qualified during the summer and then went to nationals during Thanksgiving time," Coleton recalls. "We played like six games. We could have played eight games, but we only made it to the semifinals."

The path to nationals wasn't without challenges. Coleton plays for the Pumas, a club team based in Marion that practices locally but competes in tournaments throughout the St. Louis area. His team was previously ranked first in Kentucky, demonstrating the high level of competition these young athletes face.

The national tournament experience taught valuable lessons about perseverance and sportsmanship. In their semifinal match, what Coleton describes as poor officiating cost them a chance at the championship game. "The ref wasn't making the right calls. Someone used their head inside the box, which should have been a penalty, and from that play they ended up scoring the winning goal," he explains. Despite the disappointment, the team's third-place finish represents an extraordinary achievement for players so young.

This year, Coleton's team came close to repeating their success, finishing fifth in regionals. "We're gonna try harder next year and hopefully make it next year," he says with determination that reflects both his competitive spirit and optimism.

Soccer isn't Coleton's only athletic pursuit. He also plays on Unity Point's baseball team, competing alongside students from fifth through eighth grade. Though he acknowledges being "one of the youngest players on the team," he values the experience and learning opportunities. His favorite position is catcher, and he also plays center field, left field, and shortstop.

"I don't play hardly at all because I'm young, but I'm getting experience," he says. "You learn a lot by going to practices and watching games."

Beyond school baseball, Coleton plays for Carbondale Junior Sports, where he and his Unity Point classmate Michael Edwards both made the all-star team. He's also considering trying out for Unity Point's track team this spring, drawn by his love of running.

When asked what he likes most about Unity Point, Coleton focuses on the people who make his education possible. "I like the way that they teach, and I like that most of the teachers are forgiving and will give you second chances and that they actually teach well," he says. "The teachers are experienced."

This perspective from a student who struggled academically before finding his place at Unity Point speaks volumes about the school's culture. Teachers like Ms. Gregson, his fifth-grade teacher, create environments where students feel supported rather than judged, where second chances are opportunities for growth rather than signs of failure.

His friends Mason and Michael, his academic growth, his athletic achievements, and his plans for track tryouts all paint a picture of a well-rounded student thriving in an environment that values both academic excellence and personal development. Unity Point didn't just teach Coleton to read—it gave him the confidence to pursue his dreams, whether they lead to the classroom, the playing field, or wherever his interests may take him next.