Academic All-Star – Mill Creek Middle

Published April 6, 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.

Madeline McNeely is only a sixth grade student at Mill Creek Middle School, but she has already made a strong impression on students and teachers. The 12-year-old is known for always having a smile on her face and for giving 100 percent.

“Madeline is consistently positive and willing to help others,” said Mill Creek Middle Assistant Principal Cameron Gish. “She tries her very best, no matter the task and perseveres through challenges. Her spirit is contagious throughout our school, and she truly lives out the ‘Lead, Exceed, Inspire’ mission of Mill Creek Middle School each day.”

Although she’s new to middle school, Madeline says the transition has been great and she loves her new school.

“All of my teachers are great,” said Madeline. “I feel like I have learned so much, and I’ve been pushed harder than ever before. It’s such a beautiful school, and it’s just really amazing.”

Madeline’s favorite subject is English/language arts because it’s the one class where she has seen the most improvement. When she’s not in school, Madeline stays busy by participating in multiple sports and activities.

“I’m a student ambassador here at Mill Creek Middle,” said Madeline. “I give tours, and I’ve enjoyed making new friends that way. I also was on the volleyball team, the soccer team and the basketball team. I’m also in our upcoming school play which is Charlotte’s Web. I’m the goose.”

Madeline even has a good idea of what she wants to be when she gets older.

“I love sports, and I love being in front of a camera so I want to be a sports broadcaster when I grow up,” said Madeline. “That way, I would get to combine two of my passions.”

In the meantime, Madeline pledges to keep working hard so she can continue to improve every day.

“I always try to have a growth mindset,” said Madeline. “No matter what I do, I want to improve. If I get a bad grade on a test, then I’ll do whatever it takes to turn it around. I don’t like having low grades. That’s just who I am.”