Powered by PNC, Governor’s Early Literacy Foundation’s Tenn Under 10 initiative recognizes 10 Tennessee 3rd graders as “Little Literacy Leaders,” based on their ability to overcome hardships as they learn how to read.
Nominated by educators from across the state, the 10 scholars were selected based on how they exhibit the four values of Tenn Under 10: tenaciously driven, eager to read, noticeably growing, and nonstop learner.
In addition to the post-secondary education scholarship, each honoree will receive books and resources to support their reading journey as well as recognition as GELF’s “Little Literacy Leaders” in their local community.
It is very important and rewarding because last year I didn’t read a lot. Now this year, I’m reading a lot more and my school work is clearer.
Ryker Knapik
Sewanee Elementary School
Tenn Under 10
Little Literacy Leaders of 2025
Juniper Bright
University School
Washington County Schools
What I want to be when I grow up:
Veterinarian
My favorite book:
Emerald and the Elf King
by Becky Biggs
Justin Cartagena
Rhea Central Elementary
Rhea County School District
What I want to be when I grow up:
Professional Soccer Player
My favorite book:
The Most Magnificent Thing
by Ashley Spires
Avacyn Clark
Valley View Elementary
Campbell County School District
What I want to be when I grow up:
Teacher
My favorite book:
I Survived...
series by Lauren Tarshis
Christopher Clark
Burks Elementary School
Putnam County School District
What I want to be when I grow up:
Math Teacher
My favorite book:
Captain America
by Marvel Press
Phoenix Hall
Ketron Elementary School
Sullivan County School District
What I want to be when I grow up:
Army/Military Police Officer or Policeman
My favorite book:
Dog Man
series by Dav Pilkey
Leo Kelley
Murrell School
Metro Nashville Public Schools
What I want to be when I grow up:
Chipotle Guy or Bus Driver
My favorite book:
Pocket Genius: Cars: Facts at Your Fingertips
by DK
Ryker Knapik
Sewanee Elementary School
Franklin County School District
What I want to be when I grow up:
Artist
My favorite book:
Fly Guy
series by Dav Pilkey
Kynlee Robbins
Holladay Elementary School
Benton County School District
What I want to be when I grow up:
Veterinarian
My favorite book:
Captain Underpants
series by Dav Pikey
Jeremiah Smith
Johnson Elementary School
Franklin Special School District
What I want to be when I grow up:
NFL Player and Bus Driver
My favorite book:
The Notebook of Doom
by Troy Cummings
Alexander Solares
Gleason School
Weakley County School District
What I want to be when I grow up:
CEO of my own company called “A”
My favorite book:
Dog Man
series by Dav Pilkey
It makes me feel happy and proud of myself. I can read anything I want to!
Avacyn Clark
Valley View Elementary
This award will help me go to Ole Miss university! The award has inspired me to attend college, to keep reading, and keep working harder!
Jeremiah Smith
Johnson Elementary School