Academic All-Stars-5601
Published January 31, 2014
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 certificate, a $10 gift card to Sonic Drive-In and a free gift courtesy of Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More in Franklin.
Fairview High - Bishop Turrentine
Fairview High School Senior Bishop Turrentine has come a long way. After moving to Fairview as a freshman, Bishop was the subject of constant discipline referrals and underperformance.
It wasn't until his junior year that Bishop realized he was headed down the wrong path and made a commitment to change his ways. Since then, administrators say he has been a model of perseverance and determination, which is why they are proud to name him Fairview High School's Academic All-Star.
"As a senior in Renee McKnight’s rigorous statistics class, Bishop persevered throughout the first semester, enduring thoughts of not graduating," said Principal Dr. Juli Oyer.
"When Bishop was brought to my office and informed that he had passed the mid-term, he began to cry," said Oyer. "Mrs. McKnight reminded him that it was all of his own effort, and empowered him to push even harder through the next semester now knowing that he is very capable."
As for Bishop, he appreciates the teachers at Fairview High School because they truly care about their students. “The teachers here are great,” said Bishop. “They’re willing to help you as long as you’re willing to help yourself. There’s no reason you should fail.”
Bishop also says he's noticed a big change in the student body, thanks in large part to a new campaign at the school that encourages kindness among students and staff. “This year, Dr. Oyer started this whole Be Nice campaign,” said Bishop. "Ever since it started, it's almost like no one has a problem with anybody and everyone gets along.”
After graduation, Bishop plans to enlist in the military. He says he'll continue to strive toward being the best he can be. "I want to be successful," said Bishop. "I want to be somebody, not a nobody."
Grassland Elementary - James Vest
In just his second year at Grassland Elementary School, fifth grader James Vest has already earned a reputation as a hard worker who is committed to doing well in school. That's why teachers and administrators at Grassland selected him as the school's Academic All-Star for the 2013-14 school year.
"James is the perfect choice for this award," said Principal Dr. Ann Gordon. "He works hard, perseveres, has a positive attitude and exemplifies the Grassland Eagle expectations of Be Responsible, Show Respect and Do Your Best."
James moved to Williamson County from Birmingham, Alabama and says he loves attending Grassland Elementary School because of all the wonderful teachers.
"My favorite subjects are math and science," said James. "I want to be a scientist when I grow up because I really love science and it's a job that uses math too."
When he's not in school, James spends a lot of time participating in Boy Scouts and church-related activities. He's been part of Boy Scouts for four years and says it's a lot of fun. As for why he puts so much importance on his school-work, James says he thinks it's important to work hard and learn as much as you can while you're in school.
Despite his recent accomplishments in the classroom, James says he was surprised to learn that he had been chosen for this award and had no trouble summing up how it feels.
"It feels good and weird at the same time," said James.