Consider that Caron, 18, a 2015 Monroe High School graduate, never was absent, never was tardy, during his 13-year education, from kindergarten through his senior year. When asked the length of his consecutive day streak, he reached into his pocket, grabbed his phone and punched in the numbers: 13 years times 180 days, the number of school days a year.
Two thousand, three hundred and forty days.
“I never thought of it that way,” he said after reading the number. “That’s a long time.”
The Ironman of Education never considered his incredible streak, much like a pitcher doesn’t think about a no-hitter in the seventh inning. Then he thought about it when he injured his right knee at football practice his sophomore year. He was scheduled for surgery on a Friday. The streak, it appeared, was over. But his knee healed, and the surgery was cancelled.
There were other close calls: Days when he was so sick, he ate chicken noodle soup, went to bed, slept through the night, and woke up in time for class.
Of course, he missed some school days, but all excused absences for college visits, and service on the Middletown Community Foundation Youth Council.
He also made the most of his time in school, this kid did. He played football, baseball, basketball, tennis, and volleyball and earned five varsity letters.
Academically, he shined, too. He was either on the merit or honor roll throughout his school career and he received the Joe Nuxhall Memorial Scholarship named after the former Cincinnati Reds pitcher from Hamilton.
He participated in the Anthony Munoz Leadership Conference for three years and worked with children with special needs. An active member of the Monroe United Methodist Church, he went on mission trips and worked on homes in the Appalachia Mountains in Kentucky.
Later this summer, he will begin his next journey: Obtaining a nursing degree and participating in the ROTC program at Olivet Nazarene University just outside Chicago. He hopes to serve his country as an Army Nurse Practitioner, specializing in pediatrics while also serving God through mission work.
In recognition of his achievements, he recently received a hand-signed letter from House Speaker John Boehner, R-West Chester, and a certificate from state Rep. Tim Derickson, R-Hanover Twp.
Boehner wrote: “This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to your commitment to excellence and dedication to the principles that make American great. I have every bit of confidence that you will continue to thrive and serve as a role model to those around you.”
Andrew is the son of Jeff and Rebecca Caron. His father is a retired Army first sergeant, disabled my multiple scoliosis. The walls of his office and garage are decorated with Army mementos. It’s obvious you’re in the home of an Army veteran.
Andrew was asked what lessons he learned from his military father.
“To be the best,” he said without hesitation. “To be dedicated, to be perfect.”
No one, of course, is perfect, just perfect in attendance.
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