Brynn Simmons: Schindewolf’s Triple-A Student Excels in the Classroom, Court, and Beyond

Schindewolf Intermediate eighth grader Brynn Simmons is the true definition of a Triple-A student—a learner who excels in academics, arts, and athletics. From exceptional grades to her musical ability, there isn’t anything that Brynn can’t do.  

Brynn’s academic performance is impressive to say the least. When she enters high school, she will already have seven high school credits.

Brynn is a well-rounded individual who participates in several extracurricular activities. She is a cheerleader, volleyball player, and runs track. She also plays the electric guitar and takes drawing lessons.

“As a coach, I have never had to 'teach' or 'coach' her as a young teen to push herself to do better or to be better athletically or academically,” Schindewolf Head Girls Volleyball Coach Melynda Phephles said. “If you stand back and watch her work ethic, you can see it radiate off her. She has a mindset that challenges her to be the best version of herself daily, to focus intentionally, and to do her best for those around her.”

While Brynn loves being involved, her top priority is always her academics. She aspires to be a teacher one day, and her plan for high school is to get a kick-start on her future in the Klein ISD High-Quality Teaching Program. Since elementary school, Brynn has been fond of teaching, noting how helping others also helped her. 

“I liked helping all of my friends when I was in elementary school. Whenever I finished all my work first, I liked helping them and explaining things,” Brynn said. “It also helped me to know that I knew how to do the assignment, so I thought that was fun.”

When she gets to high school, Brynn knows she might have to make adjustments to balance her very full plate, but one thing she doesn't want to give up is art. She would like to improve her art skills by taking advanced art classes.  

Having two older brothers who are actively involved in sports inspired Brynn to take on a few of her own. 

Brynn started running in elementary school, joining the run club at Roth and following in her brothers’ footsteps. Not only did her brothers contribute to her love for running, but frequently attending their football games opened her eyes to cheerleading. She’s been running and cheering since elementary school, but her favorite sport is volleyball. 

“I would say volleyball is my favorite sport because it’s different from cheer,” Brynn said. “In cheer, you watch and cheer for the players, but in volleyball, you are the player, and people are cheering for you. I like that feeling.” 

It’s clear that Brynn takes pride in the work she does in the classroom and her extracurricular activities. Her dedication is seen by those who are around her daily and see how hard she works. Brynn’s mother, Jennika, attributes her success to her unrelenting commitment to excellence. 

“Brynn will always be at the optional practices, always stay late to get extra help, and always complete the extra credit even if she excels in a class,” Jennika said. “She just doesn't have any quit in her. If there's something more to be learned, to achieve, or to advance in, she's willing to put in the time and work it takes to make it happen. It's why she's so good at everything she does.”

Part of the key to Brynn’s success is having her family support her. She notes that her mother’s organizational skills help her stay on track with school work, extracurriculars, and her responsibilities at home. She acknowledges that it can be challenging but wouldn’t have it any other way. 

“I really like the things I do. I like being active,” Brynn said. “Not doing something isn’t fun for me. I try not to put too much on my plate, but I try to do enough to enjoy what I'm doing and fill my time.”

As she heads into high school to continue her journey, Brynn shares some words of wisdom with those who want to be as involved as she is. 

“I would say always put your grades first. If you focus on school more and get a tutor, you’ll have time to focus on your sports,” Brynn said. "Also, practicing your activities during breaks always helps. You just have to learn to use your time wisely. I think that’s the biggest thing.”

We are so proud to have students like Brynn. Keep up the great work, Brynn; we look forward to seeing what the future holds for you!