The United States Achievement Academy recently recognized Brandon A. Cecilio of Oakley as a student of excellence in science. Deer Valley High School teacher Liz Ritchie nominated Brandon, who is now among the fewer that 10 percent of high school students in the United States honored by the Academy. Brandon will appear in the United States Achievement Academy’s Official Yearbook, which is published nationally.

Brandon is the son of Fernando and Maria Cecilio of Oakley. Brandon’s grandparents are Teresita Alano of Antioch and Carmelo and Veronica Cecilio of Bay Point.

“Recognizing and supporting our youth is more important than ever before in America’s history,” said Dr. George Stevens, founder of the United States Achievement Academy. “Certainly, United States Achievement Academy students should be congratulated and appreciated for their dedication to excellence and achievement.”

The academy recognizes students upon the exclusive recommendation of teachers, coaches, counselors and other qualified sponsors and upon the Standards for Selection set forth by the Academy. The Standards for Selection include academic performance, interest and aptitude, leadership qualities, responsibility, enthusiasm, motivation to learn and improve, attitude and cooperative spirit, dependability and recommendation from a qualified sponsor.