From pre-kindergarten to eighth grade, Waylon Williams has walked the same corridors, sat in the same classrooms, and learned from many of the same teachers who now speak proudly of his growth. As he prepares to move on to Benton Consolidated High School, he carries with him not just strong grades but a clear sense of who he is and where he hopes to go.

Waylon began singing in elementary music classes under Mr. Lay, learning the fundamentals of rhythm and pitch. By the time he reached middle school, choir had become more than just another class. Under the direction of Ms. Leffler, he developed his voice, learned musical structure, and gained confidence as a performer. Now a member of advanced choir, he describes himself as currently singing in the alto range, though his voice is gradually settling lower.

“Not many people enjoyed it, but I was one of the kids who did,” he said about sticking with choir year after year. That consistency speaks volumes. While some classmates drifted toward other electives, Waylon leaned in.

His love for music has grown beyond the classroom. He recently attended DramaCon, an event where students performed scenes and plays, and the experience left a lasting impression. Musical theater has captured his imagination. He plans to audition for community productions in Benton and hopes to participate in drama and choir programs in high school as well.

Academically, Waylon is just as committed. He has maintained A’s throughout nearly every year of school and has consistently earned honor roll recognition. Choir may be his favorite class, but math runs a close second. “I’ve always had a flair for math,” he said. Science presents more of a challenge, but he approaches it with the same determination he applies everywhere else.

Outside the fine arts, Waylon is remarkably well-rounded. He has participated in cross country, track, basketball, and baseball, and he is currently focusing on basketball, baseball, and track. In track, he gravitates toward distance running, drawing on his cross-country background and 5K experience. He trains regularly, running outdoors or on a treadmill to improve both speed and endurance.

In basketball, he plays point guard—a role that requires leadership and awareness. Although he didn’t see playing time this past season, he accepted the coach’s feedback that he needs to build strength and quickness. Rather than feeling discouraged, he’s already planning to take advantage of weightlifting opportunities in high school to improve.

Baseball is another passion. Waylon plays multiple positions—outfield, second base, shortstop, and even pitcher. He is also part of a travel team called the Legends, where his coaches recognize his versatility and strong hitting ability. That extra commitment outside of school demonstrates how seriously he takes improvement.

Family plays an important role in his life. His father works in construction, building houses and rental properties, and Waylon has considered following in his footsteps. His mother previously worked in a dental office creating prosthetic teeth and now works from home, helping support the family in new ways. He also has an older brother at Benton High School who is active in sports. Watching his brother navigate high school has made the transition feel less intimidating.

In fact, Waylon is looking forward to high school. “It just seems more of a fresh start,” he said. He already knows many students there and feels excited rather than nervous about the move.

When asked about his long-term plans, he answered without hesitation: college is part of the picture. “One hundred percent,” he said. Whether he ultimately pursues construction, music, athletics, or another path entirely, he intends to prepare himself fully.

If he could design a perfect day, it would include spending time with family and traveling to Europe—places like Italy or France, where history and culture come alive. He dreams of seeing the world someday and believes that with hard work, he will.

Perhaps his most thoughtful reflection came when he spoke about friendships. “If you have the right people around you, they will push you forward,” he said. “But if you’re with the wrong people, they’ll just hold you back.” He has learned to choose his circle carefully, surrounding himself with those who support his goals.

After years in Benton’s classrooms, choir rooms, and athletic fields, Waylon Williams leaves eighth grade with strong grades, a steady work ethic, and a voice that is still finding its full range. Whether he is singing on stage, sprinting down a track, or planning for college, one thing is clear—he intends to keep moving forward, guided by discipline, encouragement, and the right people at his side.