Academic All-Stars

Published October 25, 2012

This award is given to students who exhibit a positive attitude and a commitment to excellence in the classroom. Each Academic All-Star is chosen by his or her principal and receives a $10 gift card to Sonic Drive-In and a free gift courtesy of Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More in Franklin.

Brielyn McLendon - Brentwood High

Brentwood High School Senior Brielyn McLendon has been selected as her school's Academic All-Star for the 2012-13 school year. Having attended Brentwood High since ninth grade, Brielyn says her experience at the school has been amazing.

"The teachers here motivate you to go above and beyond," said Brielyn. "There's no idea that you should ever do less than what's expected of you. I've learned to appreciate that throughout the years."

Brielyn's favorite subject is English, and she says she was inspired by her eleventh grade AP English teacher Mark Baker.

"Mr. Baker's class spurred more of a love of literature in me," says Brielyn. "His class is more about going in depth about what authors mean when they write which I like."

When she's not studying, you can typically find Brielyn performing. Brielyn says she loves to sing, dance and act.

"I perform all the time," said Brielyn. "I sing in choral groups and ensembles and I do musicals. I'm also a tap dancer so I do that every once in a while. If I'm on stage, then I'm sort of in my element."

As for future plans, Brielyn hopes to go to college although she's not entirely sure what she'll study.

"I'm applying to six colleges but I have no idea what I want to do," said Brielyn. "I've decided to go in undeclared until I find something that makes me happy."