Jayden Alston, a senior at Upper Darby High School, was accepted to 20 colleges and accumulated over $1.4 million in merit-based scholarships, writes Madeleine Wright for CBS News Philadelphia.

Alston, 18, had once struggled academically and had low grades, which led him to be placed a special education program for four years. Yet over the past 3 years of his high school career, Alston has flourished and made the honor roll every semester.

Throughout it all, his parents, mentors, and educators helped him blossom onto his path to success.

“I’m so happy for my boy,” said Jamar Alston, his father. “If you know Jayden, you know Jayden is a really good kid.”

He wants to study business after choosing West Chester University for higher education.

“Always stay resilient and keep pushing,” said Alston, giving advice to others who might face the same challenges he endured.

Read more about Jayden Alston and his journey to success at CBS News Philadelphia.

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