Class of 2026 – ��Ӱҵ ISD

Seguin High School valedictorian shares memories and advice

Ryan Pierce — Fri, 29 May 2026 18:11:21 +0000

Seguin valedictorian Yasmine��Bouayad��Agha

It’s graduation season and we're celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian for all eight ��Ӱҵ ISD high schools. Meet Seguin High School valedictorian Yasmine��Bouayad��Agha.

NAME: Yasmine��Bouayad��Agha
SCHOOL: Juan Seguin High School
COLLEGE:
INTENDED MAJOR: Chemistry

〉What is one piece of advice you would give an incoming freshman?

One piece of advice I have for freshmen is to explore programs and awards outside of school for high schoolers, like research programs at colleges or anything that interests you. There are programs for STEM, politics, culture, and more that let you meet new people while also learning more academically.

〉What will you miss most about high school?

One thing I’ll miss the most about high school are my favorite teachers, Mr. McGinty and Mr. Schraam. I loved having lunch in their classrooms because they made school feel more fun and comfortable.

〉What are you most excited about graduation?

I’m most excited to wear the light blue cap and gown because light blue is actually my favorite color, and it matches my room theme and my prom dress.

〉Who inspires you the most and why?

My uncle inspires me the most because he’s a doctor, and he’s really really funny, cool, and the smartest person I know.��

〉What’s your favorite high school memory?

My favorite high school memory was making Eric Cartman out of clay in my APES class.

Seguin High School salutatorian shares memories and advice

Ryan Pierce — Fri, 29 May 2026 17:21:05 +0000

Seguin salutatorian Lee Kerk

It’s graduation season and we're celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian for all eight ��Ӱҵ ISD high schools. Meet Seguin High School salutatorian Lee Kerk.

NAME: Lee Kerk
SCHOOL: Juan Seguin High School
COLLEGE:
INTENDED MAJOR: Public Health

〉What is one piece of advice you would give an incoming freshman?

Get involved early and try different extracurricular activities because they can help you meet new people, build connections, and find things you genuinely enjoy. At the same time, do not overload yourself trying to do everything at once. Make sure to take care of yourself and get enough sleep every night because you will honestly be a lot happier and feel better overall.

〉What will you miss most about high school?

I will miss being able to see everyone I know every day. When I first started freshman year, I thought high school was going to feel slow, but now it feels crazy that it is already almost over. I’ll miss the familiar faces in the hallways, being part of orchestra, volunteering with people I knew through Key Club, and going to club meetings with friends. Those everyday moments felt normal at the time, but looking back, they are what made high school meaningful.

〉What are you most excited about after graduation?

I am most excited to continue my journey and keep working hard to become the best version of myself. I’m excited to learn new things, and continue growing through dedication and hard work while working toward the goals I have for my future.

〉Who inspires you the most and why?

My dad inspires me the most because he is one of the hardest-working people I know. Growing up, I saw how much effort and patience he put into supporting our family, even when things were not always easy. The way he keeps going and stays responsible makes me want to be like him. He has taught me that hard work is not just about one big moment, but about showing up every day and doing your best.

〉What’s your favorite high school memory?

One of my favorite memories was performing with my orchestra because it reminded me how much I had grown as a musician and how meaningful it was to be part of a group that worked hard together.

Martin High School valedictorian shares memories and advice

Ryan Pierce — Thu, 28 May 2026 13:21:11 +0000

Martin valedictorian Kaylie Nguyen

It’s graduation season and we're celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian for all eight ��Ӱҵ ISD high schools. Meet Martin High School valedictorian Kaylie Nguyen.

NAME:��Kaylie Nguyen

SCHOOL:��Martin High School

COLLEGE:��

INTENDED MAJOR: Biology on pre-med track

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〉What is one piece of advice you would give an incoming freshman?��

Always stay on top of your work while building good habits from the very beginning no matter if certain assignments or tasks may seem unimportant at the time since everything adds up over the years. Also, do not be afraid to try new things and step outside of your comfort zone because high school goes by much faster than you expect, so you don't want any regrets later.

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〉What will you miss most about high school?

I will miss seeing all my friends every single day, like eating lunch together, sharing classes, going on random side quests, and going through difficult and stressful times together since they have continued to remain my number one supporters and cheerleaders throughout my time in high school.

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〉What are you most excited about after graduation?

I am very excited to meet new people and overall just gain more independence to fully live out the college experience that everyone talks about. I also look forward to deepening my passions further, especially wanting to pursue a career in the medical field, so I can one day give back to the people who have supported me all my life.

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〉Who inspires you the most��and��why?

My grandpa inspires me the most as he is one of the hardest-working people I know. He was an immigrant from Vietnam and after fighting in the Vietnam War and surviving being captured, he came to America with nothing but still managed to work his way up completely from scratch. From his sheer amount of perseverance, he was able to bring my family to America and eventually become one of the first Vietnamese business owners of a printing shop in ��Ӱҵ. Even today, he is still working without retirement just to support our family, which motivates me to stay resilient in anything I do as well.

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〉What’s your favorite high school memory?

I would say the STEM trips are the most notable memories to me since I was able to attend them throughout all four years of high school, where we went to Camp Olympia freshman year, NASA sophomore year, Lakeview junior year, and Alley Cats senior year. These trips helped me form extremely close bonds with both my classmates and teachers since we all made such special memories together. I also feel very grateful that we are granted this privilege being part of the STEM Program at MHS.

Sam Houston High School valedictorian shares memories and advice

Ryan Pierce — Wed, 27 May 2026 16:48:16 +0000

Sam Houston valedictorian Michael Okunrotifa

It’s graduation season and we're celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian for all eight ��Ӱҵ ISD high schools. Meet Sam Houston High School valedictorian Michael Okunrotifa.

NAME: Michael Okunrotifa
SCHOOL: Sam Houston High School
COLLEGE:
INTENDED MAJOR: Electrical Engineering

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〉What is one piece of advice you would give an incoming freshman?��

One piece of advice I would give is to embarrass yourself in a responsible manner. It makes you more memorable as a person.

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〉What will you miss most about high school?

I will miss the exacting and repetitive routine of high school.��Life is easier when you're told what to do, and not left to figure it out yourself like I will have to do in college.

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〉What are you most excited about after graduation?

I am most excited to hopefully step out of my social circle this summer. I want to go have fun in any way and shape that I possibly can.

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〉Who inspires you the most��and��why?

I am most inspired by my mother. She has embodied the definition of hard work and sacrifice. For that, I am very grateful to be her child.

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〉What’s your favorite high school memory?

Graduating.

Sam Houston High School salutatorian shares memories and advice

Ryan Pierce — Wed, 27 May 2026 16:47:52 +0000

Sam Houston salutatorian Jacob Sajimi

It’s graduation season and we're celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian for all eight ��Ӱҵ ISD high schools. Meet Sam Houston High School salutatorian Adeferanmi (Jacob) Sajimi.

NAME: Adeferanmi (Jacob) Sajimi

SCHOOL: Sam Houston High School

COLLEGE:

INTENDED MAJOR: Mechanical Engineering

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〉What is one piece of advice you would give an incoming freshman?

A piece of advice I would give to an incoming freshmen would be to not be secluded and to be prone to making friends because the friends that you make when you first get to high school are the ones that are going to be there for you throughout. There might be times when you need help with something and having friends that you've known for so long makes it easier to ask questions or to get help when you need it.��

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〉What will you miss most about high school?

What I would miss most about high school is the familiarity. I am someone that does not like change, so having a complete change of environment and the people that I am around is pretty daunting to me. Yes, I am excited for the next stage of my life in college, but I would definitely be lying if I said I wasn't scared of leaving high school and entering a new world that I am unfamiliar with, but I also know that is a part of life in general and I am thrilled to experience this change.

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〉What are you most excited about after graduation?

As of right now, I am most excited for Frog Camp, which is a summer camp that TCU hosts. It just seems like such a good opportunity to get out of my comfort zone and make new friends while also having a lot of fun, so that is what I am looking forward to the most right now.

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〉Who inspires you the most and why?

The main thing that inspires me the most to keep doing what I am doing is the memory of my mom and the realization of where I came from and where I am now. Before her passing, my mom was always keen on me going to college and chasing a higher education. Her memory, which I carry with me everyday, allows me to feel fulfilled and encourages me to keep going. Also knowing that I came from a town in Nigeria where I never pictured myself to be in the position that I am in today, but here I am. That thought itself enables me to appreciate everything and everyone around me and allows me to maximize every opportunity that comes my way.��

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〉What’s your favorite high school memory?

My favorite high school memory would be having fun on the soccer team, especially with my friend, Michael. Soccer is a hobby that I will continue for the rest of my life because it allows me to be present and just finds a way to put a smile on my face. I will never let go of the happy memories that I made while on the soccer team.

ACHS senior earns prestigious QuestBridge Scholarship

Sherie Smith — Wed, 27 May 2026 16:03:21 +0000

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F95wP7XnSXs[/embed]

��Ӱҵ Collegiate High School senior Giovanni Roman has earned one of the most prestigious scholarships in the nation: the . The award provides him with a full four‑year college education at the , including tuition, room and board, medical benefits, and travel expenses.��

The QuestBridge scholarship is a highly competitive national program that connects high‑achieving students from low‑income backgrounds with top colleges and universities across the country. For Roman, the opportunity represents more than financial support; it marks a pivotal milestone for both him and his family.��

“I saw the QuestBridge program and it covers four years for top schools,” Roman said. “I was really interested in that because it would be life changing, and it would really help out my family a lot with paying for my college.”��

Roman first learned about QuestBridge as a junior while researching scholarships. Like many students, his original plan was to stay in Texas.��

“Originally I was kind of more committed to applying to TCU and UT Austin, more in‑state schools,” he said. “But I also was planning on applying to a couple of schools like Harvard or Stanford.”��

[caption id="attachment_201499" align="alignright" width="500"] Roman and Counselor Danielle Ealy working on campus.[/caption]

��Ӱҵ Collegiate counselor Danielle Ely helped guide Giovanni through the QuestBridge application process by assisting with recommendations, transcripts, and essay support. Ely said Giovanni stood out early on.

“He’s a leader here on campus. He’s involved in several activities and very influential with his peers,” she said. “He’s a hard‑working student, has a great GPA, and steps out of the box to take initiative.”��

Roman said the achievement carried special meaning for his family, and he is especially thankful for support from his mother during his journey to college.��

[caption id="attachment_201497" align="alignright" width="375"] Roman visiting the University of Notre Dame[/caption]

“Four years ago, I wouldn’t have imagined I would have gotten a full ride scholarship to a really good school like Notre Dame,” he said. “It wasn’t just an accomplishment for me, but also for my mother. She put in a lot of work, helping me and supporting me in my academic journey. I really feel like the work that we put in paid off.”

Following his acceptance, Roman recently had the opportunity to visit Notre Dame, where he toured campus and explored student life. During his visit, Roman learned more about student organizations, academic programs, and volunteer opportunities and said he looks forward to getting involved in clubs and activities that align with his interests during his time at Notre Dame.��

ACHS principal Jeff Krieger said that Roman’s QuestBridge scholarship has already begun inspiring other students on campus.��

“When others see somebody like them earn it, they believe it’s possible for them too,” he said. “Giovanni is the first student at ��Ӱҵ Collegiate High School to actually receive the QuestBridge scholarship, and when he walks that stage in a few months, we’ll all know that we’ve played a part in his success.”��

Roman credits ��Ӱҵ Collegiate’s close‑knit environment with��helping him reach this milestone.��

“We’re a smaller school, but everybody knows each other, and we all help each other out,” he said. “That really played a big role in everything I did here.”��

[caption id="attachment_201495" align="alignright" width="500"] A QuestBridge Match, Made to Last. Giovanni Roman and ��Ӱҵ Collegiate High School Principal, Jeff Krieger[/caption]

As Roman prepares for his next chapter, he is eager to pursue research, internships, and community service opportunities, all of which play an important role in his goal of attending medical school. Roman hopes his journey encourages other students to take chances on themselves.��

“Don’t be scared of applying for big scholarships or big colleges,” he said. “You never know what might happen. You’re more than just what’s on your application.”��

Lamar High School P-TECH graduating inaugural class

Kadence Stover — Tue, 26 May 2026 16:16:57 +0000

These Vikings are about to make history!

Lamar High School is getting ready for a celebration years in the making as the Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) program prepares to graduate its first senior class on June 1.

“We are incredibly proud of this inaugural class for paving the way for future Vikings and establishing a legacy of excellence for the Lamar P-TECH program,” Lamar principal Lesley Maroney said. “Our Lamar P-TECH students have demonstrated what is possible when students are provided with rigorous academics, industry experiences, and strong support systems focused on college, career, and workforce readiness.”

All of the Lamar P-TECH seniors have earned college credit, and 70% will graduate with an associate degree or certificate from All together, they have secured more than $22 million in scholarships. Every senior has a defined post-graduation plan, whether pursuing college, trade school, military, or the workforce.

“Lamar P-TECH represents opportunity for students and prepares them for success beyond high school,” said Aretha Hudson, P-TECH counselor. “We are proud to provide students with the tools, college experiences, and career pathways needed to thrive in the future.”

P-TECH programs are innovative, open-enrollment high schools that give students an opportunity to earn up to 60 hours of free college credit and industry certifications simultaneously. The Lamar High School P-TECH partners with and features academic pathways focused on cybersecurity and business.

“Our goal is to continue strengthening our industry partnerships and refining our pathways,” assistant principal Teri Williams said. “We want to ensure that every Viking who enters this program has a clear, supported route to a degree or a high-value career."

Way to go Vikings!

Lamar High School valedictorian shares memories and advice

Ryan Pierce — Tue, 26 May 2026 15:26:01 +0000

Lamar High valedictorian Jenna Darkazalli

It’s graduation season and we're celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian for all eight ��Ӱҵ ISD high schools. Meet Lamar High School valedictorian Jenna Darkazalli.

NAME: Jenna Darkazalli

SCHOOL:��Lamar High School

COLLEGE:

INTENDED MAJOR:��Biology pre-med track

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〉What is one piece of advice you would give an incoming freshman?��

One piece of advice I would give to an incoming freshman is to stay organized. Whether it is using a planner, calendar, or an app, having a system to keep track of assignments and responsibilities makes managing high school much less stressful and helps you stay on top of everything.

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〉What will you miss most about high school?��

What I will miss most about high school is the constant support and guidance I received, especially from my counselor. Having someone who always encouraged me and helped me navigate challenges made a huge difference in my high school experience.

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〉What are you most excited about after graduation?��

I am most excited about starting a new chapter of my life in Austin. I look forward to meeting new people, gaining new experiences, and continuing to grow both academically and personally.

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〉Who inspires you the most and why?��

I am most inspired by my parents because of the sacrifices they made to give my siblings and me a better future. Leaving their home country and starting over in a completely foreign place took incredible strength and determination, and it is something I will always admire and be grateful for.

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〉What’s your favorite high school memory?��

My favorite high school memory would have to be the friendships I made during my senior year while earning our medical assistant certifications. We constantly supported and motivated one another, and the memories we created throughout the program made the experience unforgettable.

Lamar High School salutatorian shares memories and advice

Ryan Pierce — Tue, 26 May 2026 15:07:37 +0000

Lamar High salutatorian Carson Plamondon

It’s graduation season and we're celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian for all eight ��Ӱҵ ISD high schools. Meet Lamar High School salutatorian Carson Plamondon.

NAME: Carson Plamondon

SCHOOL: Lamar High School

COLLEGE:

INTENDED MAJOR: Finance

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〉What is one piece of advice you would give an incoming freshman?��

Get involved! Whatever it is something you're passionate about or might enjoy, look for a club or organization at school to find people with similar interests.

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〉What will you miss most about high school?��

The close-knit community I've formed with many of my friends.

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〉What are you most excited about after graduation?��

Traveling! I can't wait to travel a lot this summer and live in Austin when college starts.

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〉Who inspires you the most��and��why?��

My parents because they always support and encourage me in whatever endeavors I pursue.

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〉What’s your favorite high school memory?��

Going to state for swimming and having my friends there to cheer me on.

Bowie High School valedictorian shares memories and advice

Ryan Pierce — Sun, 24 May 2026 20:25:46 +0000

Bowie High valedictorian Wesley Bui

It’s graduation season and we're celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian for all eight ��Ӱҵ ISD high schools. Meet Bowie High School valedictorian Wesley Bui.

NAME:��Wesley Bui

SCHOOL:��James Bowie High School

COLLEGE:��

INTENDED MAJOR:��Mechanical Engineering

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〉What is one piece of advice you would give an incoming freshman?��

You should always do your best and push yourself into new experiences before those opportunities disappear. Don't be afraid to use the four years of high school given to you.

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〉What will you miss most about high school?��

I'll miss being able to spend so much time with friends and teachers through both my learning environment and extracurricular activities.��

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〉What are you most excited about after graduation?��

I'm excited to experience life as a college student as I'll be in much more control of what I do with my schedule.

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〉Who inspires you the most��and��why?��

I'd say both of my parents inspire me as they always tried their best to support me, so I always tried my best to create success to support them.

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〉What’s your favorite high school memory?��

My favorite memory was when I walked around the school dancing to classes in a pink inflatable shark costume for my AP Psychology project.

Bowie High School salutatorian shares memories and advice

Ryan Pierce — Sun, 24 May 2026 20:25:30 +0000

Bowie High salutatorian Alex Vu

It’s graduation season and we're celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian for all eight ��Ӱҵ ISD high schools. Meet Bowie High School salutatorian Alex Vu.

NAME:��Alex��Vu
SCHOOL:��James Bowie High School
COLLEGE:��University��of Texas at ��Ӱҵ
INTENDED MAJOR:��Computer Science

〉What is one piece of advice you would give an incoming freshman?

Absolutely stay on top of your work. Procrastinating will be your downfall and it's important to not fall behind in your classes, it will come back to bite you!

〉What will you miss most about high school

I will miss being able to see all my friends every day, as they gave me countless memories filled with laughter that I will never forget. Although we may split ways after high school, I'm sure everyone will achieve amazing things.

〉What are you most excited about after graduation?

I'm most excited about the amount of free time I will have, as I feel like I invested a lot of my time into my classes in high school. I can't wait to get a moment's rest, even if for just a moment.

〉Who inspires you the most��and��why?

My parents inspire me the most because of how patient they are with me. They're able to give me the best advice they can while still respecting my��wishes. I also admire them for being able to persevere against many hardships and still remain standing tall.

〉What’s your favorite high school memory?

My favorite high school memory was definitely Prom 2026. It was an amazing experience being able to watch everyone enjoy the moment after a long and tedious two years of fundraising money as a class officer. It truly felt like a moment of delayed gratification after working so hard towards the goal of fundraising for prom since fall of 2024.

��Ӱҵ High valedictorian shares memories and advice

Ryan Pierce — Fri, 22 May 2026 13:25:42 +0000

��Ӱҵ High valedictorian Katie Todd Castro

It’s graduation season and we're celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian for all eight ��Ӱҵ ISD high schools. Meet ��Ӱҵ High School valedictorian Katie Todd Castro.

NAME: Katie Todd Castro
SCHOOL:�� Ӱҵ High School
COLLEGE:
INTENDED MAJOR: Microbiology

〉What is one piece of advice you would give an incoming freshman?

A piece of advice I would give is that high school goes best when you allow yourself to grow beyond who you think you’re supposed to be. Don’t rush the process or compare your path to others.

〉What will you miss most about high school?

Seeing the same people everyday and growing up alongside my peers, sharing stories and knowledge.

〉What are you most excited about after graduation?

I am most excited about stepping into new environments and perspectives. Whether through education or meeting people from different cultures and backgrounds, I look forward to continuing to learn.

〉Who inspires you the most and why?

My mother inspires me the most. She moved across the world without speaking English and sacrificed everything she knew to give our family a better future. In the middle of her life, she changed careers, faced uncertainty head-on, and carried immense responsibility with resilience and grace. Her courage, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to our family have taught me the true meaning of strength and perseverance.

〉What’s your favorite high school memory?

Going to the Homecoming football games enjoying the atmosphere of Colt Country.

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��Ӱҵ High salutatorian shares memories and advice

Ryan Pierce — Fri, 22 May 2026 13:10:59 +0000

��Ӱҵ High salutatorian Abigail Moore

It’s graduation season and we're celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian for all eight ��Ӱҵ ISD high schools. Meet ��Ӱҵ High School salutatorian Abigail Moore.

NAME:��Abigail Moore
SCHOOL:��Ӱҵ High School
COLLEGE:��
INTENDED MAJOR:��Mechanical Engineering

〉What is one piece of advice you would give an incoming freshman?

Don’t be afraid to try new things and put yourself out there – sports, clubs, extracurricular activities because you will meet new people, develop constructive life skills, and build a community full of support and love.

〉What will you miss most about high school?

Being able to play sports and representing ��Ӱҵ High School alongside some of my closest friends.

〉What are you most excited about after graduation?

Traveling around Europe and continuing my collegiate athletic career while pursuing engineering, a field I’m passionate about.

〉Who inspires you the most��and��why?

My mom, because she has achieved success in many different careers while never losing her character, kindness, or strength. She has shaped the way I see hard work and perseverance, and I hope to follow in her footsteps.

〉What’s your favorite high school memory?

Hitting my first grand slam against Haltom – at Haltom – to tie a close, nail-biting district game.��

ACHS valedictorian shares memories and advice

Ryan Pierce — Thu, 21 May 2026 13:30:17 +0000

ACHS valedictorian Nancy Nguyen

It’s graduation season and we're celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian for all eight ��Ӱҵ ISD high schools. Meet ��Ӱҵ Collegiate’s valedictorian Nancy Nguyen.

NAME: Nancy Nguyen
SCHOOL: ��Ӱҵ Collegiate High School
COLLEGE:
INTENDED MAJOR: Nursing

〉What is one piece of advice you would give an incoming freshman?

Growth isn’t linear, and it will take time to figure out your own path. Even if it changes in the future and becomes different from what you expected going into high school or different from the paths of those around you, it’s your journey that you’re exploring. Don’t lose sight of that.

〉What will you miss most about high school?

Being close to everyone, especially during my freshmen and sophomore years, is something I will miss the most. My classmates and I had the same schedules for the most part during our first two years, so I got to see familiar faces everyday and spend a lot of time with them.

〉What are you most excited about after graduation?

I am most excited about meeting new people and socializing more at new organizations in college. There are many opportunities out there that I am so excited to explore.

〉Who inspires you the most and why?

My mom has been the greatest inspiration for me as the hard-working and strong woman that she is. I admire her for her generosity and deep care she has for others. She has sacrificed and done a lot to give me the opportunity that I have today.

〉What’s your favorite high school memory?

Homecoming during freshman year of high school is my favorite memory to this day. The venue we were located in and the fun upperclassmen made it really exciting and enjoyable. It was truly one of the best nights I’ve had.

ACHS salutatorian shares memories and advice

Ryan Pierce — Thu, 21 May 2026 13:15:11 +0000

ACHS Salutatorian Jailah-Simone Anderson

It’s graduation season and we're celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian for all eight ��Ӱҵ ISD high schools. Meet ��Ӱҵ Collegiate’s salutatorian, Jailah-Simone Anderson.

NAME: Jailah-Simone Anderson
SCHOOL: ��Ӱҵ Collegiate High School
COLLEGE: ��
INTENDED MAJOR: Journalism

〉What is one piece of advice you would give an incoming freshman?

I would advise every incoming freshman to plan early! Have a good idea of what you want to major in, research potential colleges/universities, and stay involved in extracurriculars so applying to colleges your senior year will be a walk in the park. High school seems scary but can be conquered with an unwavering drive to succeed.��

〉What will you miss most about high school?

I will miss the connections I have made with every teacher and faculty member at ACHS. They have left a profound impact on me because of their continuous support throughout my educational journey. My journey had its ups and downs, and they stood by my side despite it all. I will miss them and, most importantly, my friends who I can proudly call my family. Our paths may never cross again, and I will certainly miss our days of laughter, but I will never forget how they made me feel on my worst days.��

〉What are you most excited about after graduation?

I am excited to not only continue my educational journey but continue making connections with new people I encounter. My biggest goal in life is to be a dependable friend and ally to all walks of life. I am excited to positively impact my community by staying involved with extracurriculars, volunteering, and mentorship opportunities.��

〉Who inspires you the most and why?

My mother inspires me the most because, without her, I would not have realized my strengths in journalism and public service. I do not know where I would be today without her endless love and support, and I am eternally grateful for her guidance. I love you mom, and I will always hold your selfless sacrifices dear to my heart.

〉What’s your favorite high school memory?

Final exam week was always my favorite part about high school. After our exams, my friends and I would hang out in the study rooms at Tarrant County College to watch YouTube or chat about anything on our minds. These memories will always be the most prominent for me.��

ACCHS valedictorian shares memories and advice

Ryan Pierce — Wed, 20 May 2026 20:21:27 +0000

ACCHS Valedictorian Ken Nguyen

It’s graduation season and we're celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian for all eight ��Ӱҵ ISD high schools. Meet ��Ӱҵ College and Career High School valedictorian Ken Nguyen.

NAME:��Ken Nguyen

SCHOOL:��Ӱҵ College and Career High School

COLLEGE:��

INTENDED MAJOR:��Biochemistry

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〉What is one piece of advice you would give an incoming freshman?

Stay on top of your time management since balancing classes, work, and social life gets harder than expected.

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〉What will you miss most about high school?

I’ll miss seeing my friends and teachers every day and the memories we made together. I’ll also miss the comfort of being familiar with everyone and all the school traditions.

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〉What are you most excited about after graduation?

I’m most excited about starting a new chapter in college and working toward my future career goals. I’m also excited to meet new people, gain independence, and experience new opportunities.

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〉Who inspires you the most��and��why?

My parents inspire me the most because of their hard work, sacrifices, and constant support throughout my life. They have always encouraged me to keep pushing forward and motivated me to become the best version of myself.��

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〉What’s your favorite high school memory?

My favorite high school memory was when I randomly got a burst of inspiration when writing my essay for English class. It was nice to be relieved of having to worry about the brainstorming process.��

ACCHS salutatorian shares memories and advice

Ryan Pierce — Wed, 20 May 2026 20:20:42 +0000

ACCHS salutatorian Eduardo Orozco

It’s graduation season and we're celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian for all eight ��Ӱҵ ISD high schools. Meet ��Ӱҵ College and Career High School salutatorian Eduardo Orozco.

NAME:��Eduardo Orozco

SCHOOL: ��Ӱҵ College and Career High School

COLLEGE:��

INTENDED MAJOR: Software Engineering

〉What is one piece of advice you would give an incoming freshman?

Always have your goals in mind, and have your future and your family as priorities. That way you will never deviate away from achieving success. Especially if you are the first generation, continue working hard just as your parents have.

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〉What will you miss most about high school?

The close-knit family I had at ACCHS. Since we were a small class of around 90 students, we all knew each other and always helped each other, whether that be in academics or to make our experience more fun and meaningful.

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〉What are you most excited about after graduation?

Probably the thought of one day finally being able to support and provide for my own family. I believe sharing your success with your loved ones is such a beautiful gift that I wish to express with my current as well as future family.

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〉Who inspires you the most and why?

God inspires me the most to always try my best and to spread more love and support to others. It is the reason why I find so much joy in giving and why my main aspirations are based around that.

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〉What’s your favorite high school memory?

Easily any school activities we had at ACCHS such as our yearly field days or the Junior/Senior cookout towards the end of the school year. We are able to relax and enjoy each other's company as well as have fun eating and playing at a park.

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Class of 2026 – ����Ӱҵ ISD

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ACCHS salutatorian Eduardo Orozco

Class of 2026 – ��Ӱҵ ISD

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