Goodall Homes honors Emilio Ortiz as student of the month

By Susannah Marley • Staff Writer Williamson Herald. Click Here for full article When Emilio Ortiz began Pre-K at Johnson Elementary School, he did not speak. For two years, Emilio did not speak to his teachers or classmates. “We knew he could speak as he would speak to his family,” said Johnson Elementary principal Tosha Baugh. “He said he would speak if he was put in Mr. Wilkerson’s class.” Emilio’s constant support system at Johnson and in his family paid off as he is now participating in class discussions, as well as a top reader in his class. “He is a diligent worker and tries his best in all endeavors,” Wilkerson said. “In addition to his academic strengths, Emilio has a great attitude and is always willing to help, often without even being asked and always with a beaming smile on his face.” According to Emilio, his favorite subject is math in which he loves to answer the questions. He enjoys reading books about history and recently completed a class project on garter snakes. He wants to be a policeman when he grows up. “I know how hard work as parents,” Goodall Homes Marketing Director Rachael Overall said. “I’m so proud of them teaching and believing in .” The praise continued from Emilio's father Omar. “We’re really proud of him,” Omar said. “He was really shy when he started school. I’m so proud he came to Johnson because they have helped him grow.” To nominate a Williamson County student, find a Goodall Homes Student of the Month form under the home menu online at www.williamsonherald.com.