On my way to school in the morning I always pass by a boy walking with his head phones on and listening to music. He always has a simple, genuine smile on his face. That boy is Donte’ Christin-Allen Apperwhite, this month’s featured artist. A new face in the halls and a Junior eagle, this sixteen year old has graced El Segundo High with his charm and friendliness.

Donte’ and his mother moved to El Segundo in May of 2003 from Boston, Massachusetts. He was raised in Mattapan, a small town near Boston, by his grandmother and mother. When reflecting back on his childhood, Donte’ remembers what an amazing childhood he had, although his mother gave birth to him while still in high school. When asked about people who inspire him Donte’ stated, “My mother has always pushed me to be the best I possibly can. When I came home with bad grades, my mother told me D’s would never cut it, then when I came home with A’s she said that was what was expected. She has taught me to be accountable for everything I do and having her by my side has made a huge positive impact on my life.”

Donte’ joined the ESHS band as a tuba player. Although he has only been playing for a month, he has a natural talent to connect with the instrument. His main passion is singing. He started singing at age two. Growing up in the children’s choir at his church, and then moving up to the teen choir, he enjoyed every minute of it. Donte’ had the amazing experience of performing at the Boston Hatch Shell with the teen choir for over 7,000 people. Donte’ uses his voice to help him play the piano. Coming all the way from Austrailia is Donte’s main source of inspiration, Hilllsong Music, a Christian worship band from the Hillsong church in Australia. Their music has been by Donte’s side through all the trials he’s had to face.

Junior Phuong Pham commented about her friendship with Donte’, “It’s kind of hard because there are so many words to describe him. He is so easy to talk to and when you look at him you just know he is going to go far in life, and that’s exactly what he deserves. He’s just an all around great guy.” Adding to his well deserved greatness, Donte’ has many aspirations for his future. He is planning on running for Senior Governor, joining the New Life and FCA clubs, and hoping to attend Azusa Pacific University for college. On the surface Donte’ is fulfilled by his passion for his music and art but deep down he is a true man of faith. His faith in music, life, and himself has carried him to exactly where he needs to be in his life right now. He may be a new eagle, but an eagle at heart; he has opened his wings and accepted El Segundo as his nest.