Academic All-Star – Kenrose Elementary

Published May 4, 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.

Kenrose fifth grader Brynn DeGraff is a model student who’s known as a great friend and a leader in the classroom. Teachers say those traits led them to select Brynn as the school’s Academic All-Star for the 2016-17 school year.

“Brynn is a hard worker who always does her best to go above and beyond fifth grade expectations,” said Kenrose teacher Kristi Roberts. “When you get to know her, you can see how deeply Brynn cares about others and how important it is for her to be successful in her studies and in life.”

Having moved to Williamson County from Wisconsin last year, Brynn says she’s been surprised by the easy transition.

“It has been awesome,” said Brynn. “I really like it here, and everyone in Tennessee is very nice. I feel like school has been more of a challenge here than it was in Wisconsin which is good.”

Although it can be challenging, Brynn’s teachers say they’ve been impressed with the way she takes responsibility for her learning and behavior.

“Brynn is a self-motivated student who actively participates in class and asks questions when she doesn’t understand something,” said Kenrose teacher Katie Allen. “She shows kindness to all of her classmates and encourages others. She celebrates her classmates’ successes and encourages others to do their best by setting a good example.”

When she’s not in school, Brynn loves to ride horses. It’s something she might like to do full-time when she grows up.

“I want to own my own barn and teach horseback riding,” said Brynn. “When I was a kid I always wanted to be a veterinarian, but now I can’t do anything medical because I get grossed out so that’s off the list.”

In the fall, Brynn will move on to middle school. Although she’s a little nervous to make the jump, those who know her say she is sure to excel.

“Brynn is wise beyond her years,” said Kenrose counselor Tracy Bernstein. “She is also a great friend. I have seen her befriend new students as well as help others get along. We are very proud of her.”