Forest Hill Students in the Spotlight: Spelling Bee, Battle of the Books, Capitol Hill, and Read Across America

Moments of achievement, courage, and curiosity are unfolding at Forest Hill Eementary, where students are discovering just how powerful their voices and talents can be.

At FHES, one student recently stepped into the spotlight on a regional stage. Aditi Reddy represented her school at the Shelby County Regional Spelling Bee at the University of Memphis, competing through 10 intense rounds over three hours. Facing a field of 60 participants, Aditi finished an impressive fourth place.

Her word list reflected both skill and composure under pressure, including challenging terms like “extemporaneous,” “breviloquence,” and “fiduciary.” When the final round ended, Aditi walked away not only with a top finish, but with pride in her perseverance.

“We are so proud of our super spelling fox!” said Mrs. Brenneman.

That same spirit of academic excellence carried into another districtwide competition, where Forest Hill Elementary claimed first place in Germantown’s Battle of the Books. Through teamwork and a shared love of reading, students demonstrated the power of literacy and collaboration, bringing stories to life in a way that reflects GMSD’s commitment to high-quality learning and meaningful engagement.

For some students, the spotlight shines beyond competitions and into life-changing experiences. Kendall Thomas, a third grader at Forest Hill Elementary, is already making a remarkable impact. Diagnosed at age 3 with Myasthenia Gravis, a rare disease affecting only a small number of children each year, Kendall has faced challenges with resilience well beyond her years.

From February 24–26, Kendall traveled to Washington, D.C., to attend the Rare Disease Conference for the first time. There, she spoke with state senators, representatives, and community members, advocating for awareness and change.

Her journey reflects not only courage, but the power of student voice—a key pillar of GMSD’s mission to build confidence, connection, and purpose in every learner. Kendall’s willingness to share her story is helping others feel seen and supported.

Back in the classroom, a love of reading continues to fuel student success. Five Forest Hill students recently surpassed 400 Accelerated Reader points, a milestone that highlights both dedication and joy in learning. Among them, Zaara Yahya reached an extraordinary 1,000 points, leading the school.

Top readers across each grade level are also making their mark:

• Fifth grade: Zaara Yahya – 1,000 points

• Fourth grade: Alexa Bailey – 209 points

• Third grade: Avery Gretke – 284.7 points

• Second grade: Taylor Saint – 227 points

• First grade: Collier Lindsey – 121.2 points

• Kindergarten: Alakai Hubbard – 9 points

These milestones reflect more than numbers. They represent imagination sparked, confidence built, and futures shaped through literacy.

Across every classroom and opportunity, Forest Hill students are showing what it means to grow, lead, and belong. Whether spelling on a regional stage, competing as a team, advocating on a national level, or turning pages one book at a time, each story reveals the same truth: when students are empowered, their potential becomes something truly extraordinary.