Academic All-Star – Hunter’s Bend Elementary

Published January 25, 2017

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, free food from Chick-fil-A and Sonic Drive-In and a free gift courtesy of Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More in Franklin.

Starting a new school can be difficult, especially if you’re moving from another country and don’t know the language. That was the case for 10-year-old Victor Watanabe who moved to Williamson County from Brazil over the summer.

But thanks to his hard work and determination, Victor is excelling at Hunters Bend Elementary in Franklin where he was recently named the school’s Academic All-Star for the 2016-17 school year.

“Victor has a positive outlook, a kind spirit and a never-give-up attitude,” said HBES teacher Katherine Holt. “He is a good friend to his classmates and always does his best in all of his classwork. His teachers have been amazed at his progress, and we are so proud of him.”

Although he admits to being a little nervous when he first moved to Franklin, Victor says he likes his new school and has made a lot of new friends.

Victor wants to be a scientist when he grows up, so he knows he has to work hard in school. But that doesn’t stop him from having fun. He plays piano in his free time and according to his teachers he’s quite a dancer.

If the first half of the school year was any indication, Victor’s teachers know they can continue to expect big things out of him as he continues through Hunters Bend.

“Victor gives 100 percent all the time, and he continues to amaze us with his work ethic and positive attitude,” said Victor’s teachers. “He asks questions when he does not understand and loves gaining new knowledge. Victor is an excellent choice for our Academic All-Star.”