Academic All-Stars-5384

Published April 18, 2020

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.

Victoria Mercado - Spring Station Middle School

Starting a new school would be scary for anyone, but imagine starting a new school where you don't even speak the language.

That was the challenge Spring Station Middle School seventh grader Victoria Mercado faced when she moved to Williamson County from Puerto Rico last year. Despite the initial language barrier, Victoria has thrived at Spring Station, which is why she was recently selected as the school's Academic All-Star.

"Despite being a first year English Language Learner (ELL) student, Victoria has been very successful in the classroom," said Principal Paula Pulliam. "She consistently studies and diligently seeks for understanding of all things in regards to school, as well as her new surroundings."

While Victoria's English is limited, she has no trouble praising the incredible staff at Spring Station. "I like this school," said Victoria. "The teachers are good. I like math and science."

Like most 13 year-olds, Victoria likes to spend time at the mall when she's not in school. While she's not yet sure what she wants to be when she grows up, Victoria says her plan is to keep working hard and improve each day.

Katherine King - Sunset Elementary School

Sunset Elementary School fourth grader Katherine King has been named her school's Academic All-Star for the 2012-13 school year. Administrators selected Katherine for this honor because of her strong work ethic and positive attitude.

"Katherine exhibits many great qualities," said Fourth Grade Teacher Jeanna Shelley. "She is a hard worker; she completes her work in timely manner; and she wants to do the right thing at all times. Katherine consistently strives to be best student she can be."

Katherine began attending Sunset Elementary in first grade and says her two favorite things about the school are her close friends and wonderful teachers. "The teachers here are really nice," said Katherine. "They make learning fun."

Katherine's favorite subject is science, and when she's not in school there's a good chance you'll find her competing at a swim meet. "I'm on a swim team," said Katherine. "We just started our season."

Born with a love for animals, Katherine says she might like to be a zoo keeper when she grows up. In the meantime, she plans to keep working hard at school and trying her best.

"It's important for me to do well at school because it helps my education and helps prepare me for the future."

Gabi Prow - Sunset Middle School

Ask any teacher at Sunset Middle School about eighth grader Gabi Prow and compliments are sure to follow.

In her three years at Sunset Middle, Gabi has established herself as a model student who always gives her best. That's why teachers and administrators recently selected her as the school's Academic All-Star.

"Gabi deserves this award because she is persistent, dedicated, conscientious and extremely hard working," said Sunset Middle School Teacher Sue Hooper. "She is always on point and always tries to do the right thing."

While she's excited to start high school next year at Ravenwood, Gabi says she'll miss all of the great teachers and staff at Sunset Middle.

"I really like it here," said Gabi. "Everyone has a positive attitude and the teachers are very helpful."

Gabi's favorite subject is science which makes perfect sense when you consider she wants to be a meteorologist. "I've wanted to be a meteorologist since I was in sixth grade," said Gabi. "I love weather and I like to watch the news."

Outside of school, Gabi spends much of her time taking dance classes, participating in dance competitions and babysitting. While she's honored to have received the Academic All-Star award, Gabi says she'll continue to stay motivated as she finishes eighth grade and begins the transition to high school.

"I want to do well in school because I want to be successful and get a good job," said Gabi. "That's really important to me."