SOUTH FORSYTH — In a personal letter written from the White House, a South Forsyth High School student recently was recognized by President Barack Obama for her academic performance and community service projects.

Daniela Matejkova, an International Baccalaureate student, said she developed a passion for working with special needs students and an interest in international affairs when she moved to Forsyth at the age of 13 from the Czech Republic.

She joined the IB program her junior year while becoming active in the marketing and business programs at the school on Peachtree Parkway. She also has volunteered with Junior Civitan, Special Olympics and summer camps for children with special needs.

“Teaching and helping these children is so rewarding and brings so much joy to my life every day,” she said.

Matejkova is currently a peer helper at South.

In the letter, Obama wrote: “In graduates like you, I see leaders who will drive America’s path toward a bright tomorrow, guided by a dedication to others and a desire to build the world as it should be. If you stay true to your ideas and focus on reaching your goals, I am confident you will shape the future in extraordinary ways.”