Every child deserves a chance to achieve something in life. But there are those that are given more than their share of adversity to overcome.

If you know a teen that has succeeded despite overwhelming odds, then he or she has an opportunity to become a "Class Act Teen."

WATL and WXIA will honor these students at a reception in April.

Nominees must be juniors or seniors residing in Metro Atlanta and matriculating in Metro-area school systems with graduation imminent. They must maintain a GPA that demonstrates academic effort, improvement, or success and have no more than five unexcused absences from school. The nominee must have success despite but not limited to hardship such as poverty, disability, homelessness, or personal tragedy. Despite these hardships they must also participate in activities helpful to others.

If you know of such a teen, nominate him or her for "Class Act Teens." Click here to download the form (PDF).

For more information, call 404-873-9177.

(pictured, left to right:  Jennifer Penney, Christopher Parker, Shandon Anderson (back row; from Nani Salon & Spa), Helen Smith Price (from the Coca-Cola Company), Bob Walker (WXIA/WATL President and General Manager), Margaret Frederick (front row), Cedric Maddox, William Beck, and Donna Lowry (11Alive Education Reporter)

William Beck is a senior at Southside High School. He and his brother were abandoned by their parents. He sought help from a school counselor who found a group home for them. Through it all, William has maintained at 3.0 GPA while mentoring young people in an after school program. 

Margaret Frederick is a senior at Marietta High School. She has not let the fact that she has Spina Bifida slow her down. She volunteers at Blaze Sports, a four day camp for youth with disabilities and went to Ireland with the USA Track Team. She was also the most improved junior on the Shepherd Track Team.

Cedric Maddox is a senior at Southside High School. At the age of nine, he was abused by his family. A 4th grade teacher stepped in to help him. Later, he found dance, which has given him a refuge and a purpose in life. He has choreographed and performed in many of the school's productions and is excited about entering college.

Christopher Parker is a senior at Frederick Douglass High School who has endured periods of homelessness. He realized early in life that he could not control circumstances, but could become serious about his education. He ranks 7th of 444 seniors at Douglass High School and is one of the highest scoring students in both college Algebra and Biology.

Jennifer Penney is a senior at Therrell High School who lost both her parents to AIDS. She took refuge in school. Jennifer is on the honor roll and gives back to the community by mentoring a group of young gymnasts. She believes education saved her life.