Anthony Argento (c.) was awarded a grant for academic achievement and noted as never having missed a day of school in his career at Monsignor McClancy H.S., from which he graduated last week. He is shown with his mother, Virginia Argento (l.) and grandmother Frances Merendino (r.). Anthony Paul Argento, son of Virginia and Anthony Argento Sr. and grandson of Frances Merendino, graduated from Monsignor McClancy H.S. on June 6, 2009, never having missed a day of school in four years. In fact, Argento maintained a perfect attendance record for all 12 years of elementary and high school.

Monsignor McClancy H.S. recognized Argento for his high school attendance record and, according to Virginia Argento, awarded him a grant for academic achievement. However, Virginia Argento feels, in addition to his perfect attendance record, his compassion and selflessness, two of his most outstanding character traits, were not acknowledged by the school. On several occasions, young Argento's quick thinking kept another student who was suffering an epileptic seizure from injuring himself. "Anthony has made me so proud. Words cannot express the kind of man he is," Virginia Argento declared. "Anthony has always been a leader, not a follower, and should be singled out and praised for his persistence.

"No matter where it has been, as a volunteer, an employee or a student, I have always heard kind words about your punctuality and responsibility," Virginia Argento told her son. "It gives me a great sense of pride and accomplishment."