Academic All-Star – Emily Derrick, Heritage Elementary
Published February 13, 2018
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 Sonic Drive-In and other gifts from the district.
Integrity and self-motivation are two characteristics that can be easily found in Heritage Elementary fifth grader Emily Derrick.
Since moving to HES this fall, teachers say Emily has shown a willingness to work hard, follow the rules and help others. Those are just a few reasons why administrators chose her as this year’s Academic All-Star.
“Emily sets the bar high for herself,” said her teachers. “When given a task, she goes above and beyond to research and create quality work. She loves to learn and expand her horizons academically. Emily is a quiet leader who serves as an excellent example of Eagle Pride.”
Starting a new school is never easy, although Emily says the transition to HES has gone well.
“I was a little nervous at first because I had to leave my friends and I didn’t know anybody here,” said Emily. “But the teachers are really nice, and I am friends with most of the kids in my class.”
Teachers say it didn’t take long for Emily to make an impression among her classmates.
“We’ve noticed that Emily’s peers come to her with questions because they see her as an academic and behavior rock star,” said her teachers. “Emily treats her peer group with respect and has a genuine concern for their well-being. She wants to see the people around her do well, follow the rules and succeed in all they do.”
Emily says her favorite subject is writing because she loves to create her own stories.
“I decided a long time ago to be an author and an illustrator,” said Emily. “I love drawing; I love writing; and I love reading. I’ll probably write fictional books since those are my favorite books to read.”
In the meantime, Emily says she’ll continue to work hard in school and be the best student she can be.
“When I get bad grades I’m usually in a bad mood, but when I get good grades, I feel proud of myself,” said Emily who added that being named an Academic All-Star was certainly a special moment. “I feel very proud right now… and a little shocked.”