Academic All-Stars

Published October 27, 2011

This week's Academic All-Stars come to us from Bethesda Elementary and Brentwood High schools.  This honor is bestowed upon students who regularly show a good attitude and a dedication to their studies.

BETHESDA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Jonathan Bellini	Fifth grade student Jonathan Bellini has been named Bethesda Elementary School's Academic All-Star for the 2011-12 school year. According to his principal, Jonathan was chosen for his honor because of his hard work and wonderful personality. "Jonathan is an outstanding student who exemplifies all of our Dragon Traits which are respect, responsibility, cooperation and best effort," said Bethesda Elementary School Principal Steve Fisher.  "He is an asset to Bethesda, both in and out of the classroom."
Jonathan has attended Bethesda since kindergarten and says there are two things he enjoys the most about the school.  "I like the teachers and the students," said Jonathan.  "I have almost all of my friends here and I really like the way the teachers teach." Jonathan's favorite subject is science because he enjoys doing lots of experiments.  When he's not in school, Jonathan stays busy with hobbies that include reading, soccer and baseball.  In fact, he hopes his love for baseball might one day lead him to the big leagues. "I want to be a shortstop for the New York Yankees when I grow up," said Jonathan.  "They're my favorite team and Derek Jeter is my favorite player."

BRENTWOOD HIGH SCHOOL
Olivia Sterling	Brentwood High School Senior Olivia Sterling has been named the school's Academic All-Star for the 2011-12 school year. Olivia is the Marching Band President, Habitat for Humanity Vice President and a member of the National Honor Society.  But those who know her say it's her personality that truly sets her apart from the crowd. "Olivia approaches every task with a positive and optimistic attitude," said BHS Principal Kevin Keidel.  "She sees the best in everyone and she always has a smile on her face."
Olivia has attended Brentwood High since her freshman year and says her favorite classes include American history and psychology.  Despite the school's age, Olivia says her experience at Brentwood High has been a positive one. "I think what's interesting about Brentwood High School is that it doesn't look like much from the outside but I think what really counts is what happens on the inside," said Olivia.  "The teaching is unbelievable and the students are really involved." The 17 year-old was recently chosen to be one of two students to represent Tennessee at Girls Nation, which is an annual event that teaches female students about the structure and function of federal government. "It was amazing," said Olivia.  "We got to meet President Obama and I even got to shake his hand."  After high school, Olivia plans to attend college and study international relations.