Academic All-Star – Maddie Sentell, Grassland Middle

Published February 25, 2020

Grassland Middle School eighth grader Maddie Sentell enjoys school and loves to learn, so when it came time to select an Academic All-Star, teachers at GMS say the choice was clear.

“Maddie has many attributes that make her an outstanding student and citizen of Grassland Middle School,” said her teachers. “Her kindness to others, her self-motivated academic achievements, and her leadership in projects and activities make her not only an inspiring student but also of an unquestionable character. Over the past three years, we have watched her develop these lifelong skills that will only lead to more success as she transitions to high school.”

For Maddie, the move to high school will be bittersweet.

“I have enjoyed all of the teachers here at Grassland,” said Maddie. “Just being able to go to so many different classes to be able to learn in different ways has been fun. At the same time, I’m excited to attend Franklin High because I know there will be more freedom and more class opportunities.”

Maddie’s two favorite classes are math and English language arts, but her real passion lies in theater.

“When I came here in sixth grade, I didn’t play sports, so I thought it would be cool to try theater,” said Madddie. “The first year I was a production assistant. That was really fun, and I just loved the sense of community it gave me, so I decided to do it all three years. Now I’m the director. It’s so fun, and I love it.”

When it comes to future careers Maddie is keeping her options open.

“I think it would be so much fun to own my own business,” said Maddie. “I love to bake, so I think it would be fun to own a bakery. I’m also interested in physical therapy, so I don’t know for sure. There are so many ideas I have.”

Maddie credits her parents for her helping instill in her a love for school. And though she knows a good education will take her far in life, it didn’t take away the surprise she felt when she was named this year’s Academic All-Star.

“I was completely shocked when I found out,” said Maddie. “I was overwhelmed with joy. I would never expect to get this award, so it makes me feel recognized and appreciated.”