By Jonece Dunigan / For the Record

When the last bell rings at Mills Creek Elementary School, sixth-grader Delaney Horton’s day is just beginning.

On Wednesday, she turned 12 on Dec. 12, 2012. It was an event that gave her recognition throughout her school day.

Delaney Horton holds a small clay box she made. (Record photo / Jonece Dunigan)

Math drives Delaney’s interest in school. “I don’t know why I like it, yet. I just do,” Delaney said.

Delaney’s mother, Lynnea, is a teacher at Trinity Baptist Preschool and sees her daughter as a miniature young adult who speaks softly and knows to greet professionals with a hand shake.

Since Delaney’s birthday was on a school day, she will share Sunday afternoon with her friends at Monaco Pictures to see “Wreak it Ralph” or “Rise of the Guardians.”

Lynnea said Delaney is caring and considerate, especially to children who are years younger than her. She mostly plays with her neighbor’s younger children or sits beside them when they go out to eat.

“They really like her cause she gives them the time of day. Most little kids, when they are growing up, don’t necessarily want to sit next to kids that are 5 or 6 years younger. She’s always taken the time to realize that it’s important,” Lynnea said.

Delaney has a 10-year-old sister, Claire, who she treats both as a best friend and her enemy sometimes according to their mother, yet Lynnea believes the sisters have a stronger bond then most siblings.

“They are two years apart, so (Delaney) has always kind of looked out for her,” Lynnea said.

Recently, Delaney has tried out for the school’s drama team and helps rake leaves around the neighborhood. She does not do it for the money, but to show the community she cares. These are the moments that make Lynnea surprised at just how grown up she is becoming.