Darren Cole: Cypress Run Education Center
By C. Ron Allen
South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Age: 16

School: Cypress Run Education Center

Grade: Tenth

Hometown: North Lauderdale

Trait: Respect
Darren Cole is a true gentleman, his teachers at Cypress Run Education Center in Pompano Beach said. He often opens the door for his teacher and motions to her to enter before him. He always raises his hand, and waits his turn.

Teacher, Ms. Jacqueline Doell: "He is an awesome example of respect. Darren has respect for time and respect for other people."

Grandmother, Adina Wollaston: "I am not really surprised. He always does that at home."

Darren Cole: "You've got to show respect to others because they are a lot older than you and know more than you and you want to learn from them. My momma and grandma taught me that and I listen and do what they say."

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.