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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Cool Kids: Graham Groe looks toward the future


Graham Groe
 (The Spokesman-Review)
Shannon Carlson Correspondent

Moms tend to know best, especially when it comes to their children.

According to Lesley Groe, her son, Graham Edward Groe, “is such a unique individual with many talents and a very kind heart.” These qualities are what make Graham Groe a “cool kid.”

Born Nov. 26, 1994, the former sixth-grader at Evergreen Elementary School in the Mead School District is looking forward to a new adventure this fall at Northwood Middle School, where he will be a member of the Explorer block.

“Sixth grade was fun, but I’m ready to move on. I met most of my (Northwood) teachers, and they seem nice,” Graham says from his living room in north Spokane.

“Science is my favorite subject, and I am looking forward to doing some new stuff. I like everything about science … except for geology. I am really looking forward to being in chemistry classes eventually and doing actual experiments.”

Science isn’t Graham’s only interest, however. He has played alto saxophone for two years and plans to try out for one of the acclaimed Northwood jazz bands. He also has been a piano student for three years.

Sports take up a hefty amount of this 12-year-old’s time, too. Tennis is Graham’s current interest, and he plays frequently at Northpark Racquet & Athletic Club. Basketball is a close second on his list of favorite sports; he usually plays the wing position.

The third of four children, Graham has two older brothers and a younger sister. All attend or have attended school in the Mead School District, which provides a host of opportunities for students to serve others.

Graham says he is looking forward to taking part in service projects both through classes at school and with his church youth group.

When asked about his future plans, Graham says enthusiastically, “I want to teach middle-school science.”

Graham says he also finds it easy to picture himself coaching sports when he grows up.

For now, though, his summer plans include a trip to Silverwood Theme Park, hanging out with friends and camping with his family. He plans to attend camps Gifford and Spalding as well.

Graham says he hopes soon to experience his idea of the perfect summer day, including an overnight stay at his friend Blake’s house, jumping on his trampoline, playing videogames and “messing around on the computer.”

The key to Graham’s happiness must be achievable goals and, according to his older brother Cory, “a pink T-shirt.”