Academic All-Star – Hillsboro School (Elementary)

Published May 13, 2016

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 framed certificate, coupons to Sonic Drive-In and a free gift courtesy of Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More in Franklin

It’s never easy being the new guy, but that’s not holding back third grader Malachi Ruiz. In just his first year at Hillsboro, the nine-year-old was named the school’s Academic All-Star for grades K-5.

“Malachi exhibits all the qualities of a Hillsboro Scholar,” said Hillsboro teachers Chelsey McClelland and Gina Pittman. “Having a history of academic achievement and exemplar behavior, Malachi serves as a role model to his classmates by always putting forth his best effort with a positive attitude and active listening. He is respectful to both his teachers and his peers.”

Having moved to Williamson County from Indiana, Malachi says the transition was difficult at first.

“Moving here was tough because I had to leave all my friends,” said Malachi. “But this school is really good. They have great teachers and students.”

While he doesn’t have a favorite subject, Malachi is passionate about one thing: the ocean.

“I want to be a marine biologist when I grow up,” said Malachi. “I think it would be fun. I like to go to aquariums, and I watch shows about sharks and water animals.”

In addition to learning about marine life, Malachi enjoys playing sports like soccer, basketball and baseball. He also participates in an after-school club called The Treblemakers.

When asked why his education is important to him, Malachi said he stays motivated with the help of one very special person.

“I want my mom to be proud of me,” said Malachi. “She is a teacher here and she’s really fun. I also want to grow up and get a good degree.”