Academic All-Stars-5618

Published February 28, 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.

Heritage Middle - Jessica Usatenko

Those who know her describe 14-year-old Jessica Usantenko as a dedicated student who is always willing to help out others. That's why administrators at Heritage Middle School selected Jessica as their Academic All-Star for the 2013-14 school year.

"Jessica is a quiet, focused eighth grade student here at HMS," said Principal Marlena Gross-Taylor. "She aims to excel academically and actively seeks teacher guidance to better herself. Jessica is involved with Heritage Helpers and enjoys tutoring her peers."

Jessica has attended Heritage Middle since sixth grade. She says she likes the school because the teachers are helpful; the students are welcoming; and there's not a lot of drama.

When she's not in school, Jessica enjoys playing volleyball, swimming and hanging out with friends. She also spends a large amount of her free time connecting with her cultural roots.

"Each Thursday, I go to class to learn how to read and write Russian," said Jessica, who is fluent in Russian and whose family is from Eastern Europe. "On Tuesdays, I attend a Russian Bible study class."

Jessica says she's not sure what she wants to be when she grows up, however she's thrilled to start the next phase of her educational journey. "I can't wait to go to Independence High School next year," said Jessica. "I like meeting new people so I think it will be a great opportunity for me."

Hillsboro School (Elementary) - Caroline Allain

Fourth grader Caroline Allain is the kind of student who comes to school each day with a smile on her face and eager to learn. So it's no surprise that administrators at Hillsboro School selected her as the school's Academic All-Star for grades K-5.

"Caroline displays a positive, energetic attitude in class that is contagious to the other students," said Hillsboro Teacher Tina Aaron. "She is kind and respectful to her peers and is always the first one willing to help out. Caroline takes pride in her work and never misses a homework assignment."

Caroline has attended Hillsboro since kindergarten and says math and reading are her two favorite subjects. When she's not in school, Caroline likes play outside with friends. She also loves animals and says she might like to work with them when she gets older.

Caroline's teachers say her willingness to put in the effort it takes to succeed will serve her well in whatever profession she chooses.

"When Caroline is struggling with a skill in math, she will ask for extra work and practice until she understands it," said Aaron. "She will complete extra pages for homework as well, just so she can get better. Caroline is making huge progress in all academic areas, and we are so proud of her."

Hillsboro School (Middle) - Hannah Wheeler

Eleven year-old Hannah Wheeler is known among teachers and staff at Hillsboro for her incredible work ethic, generous disposition and positive attitude. In fact, Hannah is so well-respected that administrators chose her as the school's Academic All-Star for grades 6-8.

"Hannah is diligent in writing down her assignments, asking questions and checking her teachers’ websites," said Hillsboro Teacher Ellen Midden. "She manages and takes responsibility for her classwork, homework, study schedule and make-up work. She is truly an Academic All-Star."

Hannah's favorite subject is social studies, and she says the teachers at Hillsboro are really nice. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys taking dance lessons where she learns ballet, tap and jazz.

In addition to all the encouragement she receives from family and friends, Hannah says her motivation to excel in the classroom comes from within. "I want to do well in school so I can get into a really good college."

Armed with a relentless attitude and a willingness to help out others, teachers say Hannah is poised for success.

"Hannah knows she has to work harder than others to achieve the same results, but continues to press on and not get discouraged," said Midden. "In addition, she works with other students in her class giving them study tips and organizational help. Although many students in her particular class are as conscientious as Hannah, she keeps a positive attitude each day."