Academic All-Star – Page High

Published February 5, 2015

Starting a new school is never easy, but for Page High School sophomore Will Simms, the transition was especially challenging.

“I came here from Rutherford County after my dad died,” said Will. “I was adopted last year, and that’s when I started at Page. At first it was difficult but everyone here is so nice. It’s a good, solid school.”

Not only is Page High a friendly school, but Will says it’s home to some of the best teachers around.

“I’m someone who has to work hard for my grades,” said Will. “The teachers here truly care. Last year, I had to come in after school pretty much every day of the week just to catch up on my grades. With my teacher’s help, I went from an F to a B in that class.”

According to his principal, Will is a model student who genuinely cares about others.

“Will is positive and delightful in all of his classes and always works hard,” said Principal Dr. Andrea Anthony. “He gives 100 percent every day. He always comes to school on time and monitors his own academic progress.”

Although he admits to getting bored easily, Will said he enjoys learning about science and the outdoors. As for life after high school, he says he might join the Armed Forces.

“I’ve thought about going into the Air Force to become a diesel mechanic,” said Will. “That’s a higher paying job. Plus, not only would I have benefits from the military but I would be more mature than I am now.”

When it comes to motivation, Will says he thinks back to something his father used to tell him.

“Before he passed away, my dad told me he wanted me to do better than what he did,” said Will. “He also said, ‘Work hard now and play hard later.’ I know if I continue to work hard I will have the money to do the things I want later in life.”