Bonnie Needleman: Western High School
By C. Ron Allen
South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Age: 17

School: Western High School, Davie

Grade: 12th

Hometown: Davie

Trait: Tolerance
As a team captain for her local Relay for Life, Bonnie Needleman walked for 18 hours and helped raised more than $13,000 for the charity. She also led toy and book drives for less fortunate children and has participated in fundraising walks for muscular dystrophy and autism charities.

Assistant principal, Michael Works: "Bonnie's impact on our student body has been dynamic and positive. [She] is such a leader and our charitable giving is fantastic."

Parent, Arlene Needleman: "Bonnie has always been extra kind-hearted. She was 8 years old when I was diagnosed with breast cancer and I think this was her way of giving back and being thankful."

Bonnie Needleman: "I'm very lucky to not have any health problems and I have a healthy and supportive family, so I try to give back."

This is one in a series of stories on students who best exemplify the Broward County School District's eight character education traits -- cooperation, responsibility, citizenship, kindness, respect, honesty, self-control and tolerance -- and patriotism as part of all eight.

C. Ron Allen can be reached at crallen@sun-sentinel.com or 954-385-7917.