NATCHEZ — Students are used to hearing what teachers expect from them, but, in August, one local seventh-grader got a chance to tell teachers students’ expectations.

Robert Lewis Magnet School’s Quadrick Bradford, 12, was chosen to deliver the Natchez-Adams School District’s convocation charge, or speech.

“That charge really would direct how the school year would turn out,” Bradford said.

During the speech, Bradford said he told teachers students expected the best from them, but they should also expect something from their students.

“If they’re giving us their best, then we should give them our best,” Bradford said.

Robert Lewis Principal Zandra McDonald said Bradford is mature for his age and doesn’t shy away from challenges.

“He’s one of our gifted and talented students,” McDonald said.

Bradford wrote the speech himself, with a little help.

“I actually wrote it but my mom went through and edited it,” he said.

Bradford said he was nervous about giving the speech, right up until he gave it.

“When I started, it all just kind of faded away, because once you start you can’t go back,” Bradford said.

This isn’t the first time Bradford has taken on a leadership role.

Bradford is involved in the Beta Club, a club focusing on leadership. Bradford said he helps organize trips and fundraisers.

Last year, he had another important role at the school as a student ambassador, showing off the school to community and school board members.

The program, McDonald said, helps teach students communication skills.

“We want them to understand the power of being able to communicate with people,” McDonald said.

This year, Bradford said he is taking a break from being an ambassador to start a new project.

“What I’m trying to do this year is … get a student council together,” he said.

Bradford said he will talk to other students and administration officials about the possibility of a student council. Bradford hopes it will help organize the school.

And then, Bradford might have another opportunity to let teachers know what students want.

Bradford is the son of Sharon Bradford and Robert Bradford.