3rd Grader Justice Simmons Inspires Excellence at Oakdale Elementary

Tuscaloosa City Schools, along with Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa and Child Abuse Prevention Services, will highlight and recognize Inspiring Excellence Student Of The Month from each of the 21 schools in the district during the 2023-2024 school year. Every month, two to three outstanding TCS students will be highlighted in this series.

A third-grade student at Tuscaloosa's Oakdale Elementary was honored by her classmates and school staff earlier this month for her willingness to always help others.

Justice Simmons was recognized during a surprise award presentation in class at Oakdale two weeks ago, where her principal Lucille Prewitt was joined by representatives from the above agencies and the Big Dawg Dre Day, a DJ on 105.1 the Block and 92.9 WTUG.

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Prewitt praised Simmons for her exhibition of Oakdale's core values, shortened as SOAR.

"SOAR stands for self-control, optimism, accountability and respect," the third grader explained. "I always am respectful and I always care for my classmates."

"She models the core values daily in her classroom and throughout other areas of the school," Prewitt said. "She is not only a top reader but her comprehension is above grade level. Justice is a friend to all and her smile can brighten anyone's day. Her teacher stated that Justice is a leader in the classroom and is always willing to help. Oakdale is blessed to have such a shining star student!"

And as the Tuscaloosa City School System focuses on making sure students have a plan to either get enrolled, employed or enlisted when they graduate, Simmons has a leg-up. She said she wants to be a veterinarian when she grows up

"I like to play with my sisters, play with my dogs, and play basketball," Simmons said. "I really like dogs so that's why. I want to be a vet to take care of dogs and cats and a lot more animals."

Stay connected to the Tuscaloosa Thread for more Inspiring Excellence Awards this month, including students at  Tuscaloosa Magnet Middle School and the Tuscaloosa Career and Technical Academy.