FERRIDAY — Ferriday High School junior Milak Hampton said he learned respect from his parents, Mary and John Hampton.

“They always told me to respect everyone and respect someone who’s helping my future,” Hampton said.

He said his parents’ expectations of him as a role model made them proud last month when he received the Sidney A. Murray Hydroelectric Citizenship Award.

“They said they always knew I’d get recognized for something like this,” Hampton said.

The award is given to one student in every grade level in every school throughout the Concordia Parish School District.

“It felt like an honor because only certain kids get that, and it’s nice to be looked at as a positive example,” Hampton said.

Hampton, 17, was nominated by his teachers to receive the award. FHS English Department Chair Casey Paul said she wasn’t surprised when Hampton won.

“He’s consistently just a good child,” Paul said.

In the classroom, Paul said Hampton is a hard worker.

“If he doesn’t get something right, he’s going to keep doing it until he gets it,” Paul said.

He also helps other students, noticing when they’re having trouble.

But Hampton is known for more than just helping out and working hard. He’s also known for the quality taught to him by his parents — being respectful.

“Even on his worst day, he’s still respectful,” Paul said.

Outside of the classroom, Hampton is a member of the Beta Club. And, after school lets out, Hampton takes to the field as a member of the football and track teams. He’s also considering playing basketball.

Athleticism runs in the family, he said. His grandfather, father and five siblings have all been involved in sports.

After graduation, Hampton plans to attend Louisiana State University and get a master’s degree in sports medicine.

“I’ve known sports all my life, and I feel that’s the study of a field I excel in,” Hampton said.

But no matter where he goes, Hampton likely will continue to be known for the respect he shows others.