Academic All-Star – Grassland Middle

Published January 16, 2015

The Academic All-Star 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.

Twelve year-old Campbell Lemon is an outstanding student who exemplifies hard work and commitment. That’s according to the teachers and administrators who selected her as Grassland Middle School’s Academic All-Star for the 2014-15 school year.

“Campbell strives every day to put her best foot forward and is never afraid to go the extra mile to achieve personal excellence,” said GMS Principal Dr. Lily Leffler. “Determination and perseverance are two words that describe Campbell in the classroom. Socially, Campbell is always looking for a way to help someone or make their day better.”

Though she’s only a sixth grader, Campbell has already established herself as a leader at GMS, where she is an active member of the school’s newly formed Best Buddies program.

“I was in PE the first week of school and there was a special needs student who was sitting all alone,” said Campbell. “I was heartbroken, and so I sat by her and introduced myself, and we wound up becoming best friends. Later on, Ms. Gardner told me the school was going to start a Best Buddies program and that she wanted me to be the president so I’ve gotten to know the kids really well.”

Campbell says one of her favorite things about going to school at Grassland Middle is the amazing teachers.

“I love my teachers and I love how much they want to help me,” said Campbell. “I have a learning disability so school can be a challenge. I think about giving up a lot, but my teachers, my parents and my grandparents motivate me. If I don’t try hard then I won’t be able to reach my dreams.”

Speaking of hopes and dreams, Campbell says she knows exactly what she wants to be when she grows up.

“I want to be an occupational therapist,” said Campbell. “I want to start my own practice and help anyone who needs it. I just like helping people.”