Brayden Underwood Inspires Excellence at Tuscaloosa’s Southview Elementary

Tuscaloosa City Schools, along with Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa and Child Abuse Prevention Services, will highlight and recognize an 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.

Students gathered in the library at Southview Elementary for a short ceremony to celebrate their classmate who was honored as the school's 2023-2024 Inspiring Excellence Student of the Month. 

Brayden Underwood, a fifth-grade scholar and athlete was chosen because of his stellar academics, leadership skills, and positive attitude. 

“From a teacher's perspective, his participation is constant and meaningful,” Southview Principal Ronika Amerson said. “Brayden takes pride in his academics, demonstrates social awareness, and shows empathy and compassion.”

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In addition to his character, Amerson spoke of Underwood's remarkable ability to make others always feel included. 

“He does not show favoritism towards his classmates and always engages in conversation with a diverse group of students,” Amerson said. “He's quick to take charge when working in groups while encouraging everyone to be a part of the activity to the best of their ability.”

Outside of school, Underwood plays outside corner for the Northridge Jaguar football team. He said he hopes to one day play in the NFL. 

“Showing respect is an awesome thing that you can do,” Underwood said. “Not only that, but you should also be inspiring to others.” 

“I am sure he shows matching leadership on the field just as he does in the classroom,” Amerson said. “Braydan Underwood is by far an asset to our 5th grade team and Southview Elementary School.“

Underwood was presented with a gift bag from CAPS Tuscaloosa and interviewed by the Big Dawg Dre Day, a DJ on Townsquare Media stations 105.1 the Block and 92.9 WTUG. His message will air on all eight of Townsquare's live and local radio stations this month.