In a community where the cornfields stretch on as far as the eye can see, and where everyone knows your name, one eighth grader is quietly but determinedly making her mark in every corner of Macomb, Illinois.

Meet Anna Crosby—cheerleader, fort-builder, aspiring zoologist, and, most importantly, a testament to the strength of community.

Anna has lived in Macomb all her life, and when she says all her life, she means it—“I haven’t spent more than two and a half weeks out of this town,” she declares with a mix of pride and disbelief. Her roots here are deep, with a close-knit family that includes her little brother, James, who is poised to follow in her footsteps at Macomb Middle School next year. The Crosby siblings are gearing up to take the school by storm, one grade level at a time.

While some students might confine their ambitions to a single area, Anna’s interests spread across an impressively wide spectrum. Athletically, she’s a cheerleader, embodying school spirit with every routine. She’s also set to try her hand at track towards the end of the year—a challenge she’s embracing with her characteristic mix of enthusiasm and humility. “I try to be a hard worker,” she says, almost as if she’s still getting used to the idea that she is one.

But Anna is not just about sports. She’s deeply involved in the performing arts, with plans to participate in the school play, “Old Lace and Larceny.” While the title might suggest a crime caper, for Anna, it’s another stage on which to explore her interests and connect with her peers. And when the curtain falls, she’ll be outside, perhaps building a fort with the leftover lumber in her backyard—a childhood pastime that she’s turned into a mini art form. “The old owner left some old wood pieces, so we use those as furniture or to help put up the walls,” she explains, her voice tinged with the satisfaction of a job well done.

Beyond the playground and the stage, Anna’s passion for science, particularly zoology, sets her apart. Inspired by a transformative science class with Miss Gough, Anna has set her sights on a future where she can delve into the mysteries of the animal kingdom. “I really like animals. I think it’s really cool, like all the different things they do,” she shares, her excitement palpable. It’s a big dream, but one that she’s more than capable of achieving, especially with her plans to tackle honors science classes in high school.

Of course, Anna’s journey is just beginning. As she prepares to transition to high school, she admits to a mix of nerves and excitement. “It does get a little harder each year, but you get a little smarter each year too,” she reflects, echoing the kind of wisdom that usually comes from someone much older. She’s not quite sure what to expect, but one thing is clear: she’s ready to rise to the challenge.

Yet, for all her achievements and ambitions, what stands out most about Anna is her empathy and her deep sense of community. “I like to help a lot. Probably too much sometimes,” she admits with a laugh, recounting how she can’t help but try to cheer up a friend even when they just want to be left alone. It’s this caring nature that makes her a beloved figure among her peers—a friend who is always there, even when she’s “a little crazy sometimes with enough sugar.”

Anna’s love for her hometown is just as strong as her love for her friends and family. “It’s a small town and there’s always something happening,” she says, listing everything from small events to giant parties in the square. But what she finds most special is the unwavering support from the community. “We have people who don’t have any students in the school that come and watch the games,” she notes with admiration. It’s a testament to the bond between Macomb’s residents and their schools—a bond that Anna, with all her heart, is proud to be a part of.

As she continues to grow, explore, and challenge herself, there’s no doubt that Anna Crosby will make Macomb proud. Whether she’s cheering on the sidelines, performing on stage, or one day discovering the next big breakthrough in zoology, Anna embodies the spirit of her community—resilient, supportive, and always striving for something greater. And as she builds her future, one fort at a time, she reminds us all that success isn’t just about achieving your dreams; it’s about lifting up those around you as well.