Academic All-Stars-4785

Barry Pryor is a seventh grader who has managed to impress his teachers with his profound improvement in the classroom.  That's why Barry was chosen to be Heritage Middle School's Academic All-Star for the 2010-11 school year.

"Barry is a hard-working, creative and energetic student," said HMS Principal Dr. Mary Gist.  "Throughout his seventh grade year, Barry has improved and grown stronger in his behavior, his attitude and in ownership of his learning."

Barry's favorite subjects are science and geography, and he says the teachers at Heritage Middle School are among the best he's ever had.  "The teachers here always take extra time to help me if I'm having trouble," said Barry.  "I've actually been getting all A's in math just because of the way my math teacher teaches."

In addition to singing in the school choir, Barry loves to watch movies and play video games - two hobbies that might one day lead to a career.  "I want to be an actor and a director when I grow up," said Barry.  "If that doesn't work out, I'm probably going to create video games."

Those who know her describe 10 year-old Chloe Rainey as a loyal friend and a dedicated student.  So it's no surprise that administrators at Trinity Elementary selected Chloe to be their school's Academic All-Star.

"Chloe is a true joy of a student," said Trinity Assistant Principal Trina Shelton.  "She is extremely kind, hard-working and generous."

Having attended Trinity since kindergarten, Chloe says she feels lucky to have been part of such a wonderful school.

"I think Trinity does a great job of picking the best teachers," said Chloe.  "I have loved every single teacher I've had here since I was in kindergarten." 

Chloe says her two favorite subjects are science and social studies.  "I like science because it's hands-on," said Chloe.  "For social studies, I really like learning about all of the historical sites in Tennessee."

Next year, Chloe will attend Page Middle School where she hopes to play on the volleyball team.  And while she'll be sad to leave behind all of her wonderful teachers at Trinity, Chloe says she can't wait to start sixth grade.  "I'm really excited," said Chloe.  "I think it's going to be a lot of fun."

Armed with a passion for science, Walnut Grove fourth grader Elijah Haney is a hard-working student whose dramatic improvement in the classroom made him the perfect choice for this year's Academic All-Star.

"We are so proud of Elijah," said Walnut Grove Teacher Heidi Triggs.  "He has worked incredibly hard and has overcome a lot to be where he is today.  No matter what the obstacle, Elijah is always willing to try harder."

It's that sort of attitude that has led Elijah to being one of the most improved students at Walnut Grove.  "It's a real success story," said Teacher Ann Milton.  "Elijah comes to school and he wants to learn; he wants to read and he cares about what he does."

Elijah's favorite subject is science.  He enjoys conducting experiments and watching educational videos called BrainPOP.  Outside of the classroom, Elijah loves to watch movies and says he would like to be either a filmmaker or a scientist when he grows up.

Adam Garrett is a fifth grader whose wonderful work ethic makes him stand out in the classroom.  That's why teachers at Westwood Elementary School chose him to be their Academic All-Star.

"Adam was selected as an Academic All-Star not only for his academic success," said Westwood Teacher Felicia Mears, "But also for his willingness to help others and his creative problem-solving."

Dependable, self-motivated and generous.  Those are just a few of the words that describe Winstead Elementary School fifth grader Evan Seely.  Teachers at Winstead selected Evan to be their school's Academic All-Star.

"Evan goes above and beyond in the classroom by being trustworthy and responsible," said Winstead Teacher Shelley Massey.  "Evan helps others do their very best and he works well in cooperative groups."

Evan began attending Winstead Elementary in kindergarten and says he feels fortunate to have had some wonderful teachers. 

"The teachers here are great," said Evan.  "They go out of their way to make sure you learn everything you need to learn and if you get stuck on something they will help you out."

Like most kids his age, Evan likes to play sports and videos games.  He also has a passion for reading.  "I love to read," said Evan.  "I just finished the Percy Jackson series and now I'm reading the Harry Potter series."