The minute that you start living your life like it’s a blessing, it becomes one. … Did I really leave a cliffhanger in the last article? It makes me laugh a little just thinking about it because of the response it’s received. The backstory is I didn’t even reread the last article before submitting it. I wrote from the heart, and I knew if I wanted it to be out there, a second look would cause doubt in my mind about saying these things out loud. … Many people think my hesitation is about guilt over the situation, which is a piece of it. It’s a guilt you wouldn’t believe.
Remember... life is full of ups and downs. Without the downs, the ups would mean nothing. … As my freshman year at Arkansas High approached, many emotions ran through my head. Of course, I was excited (who wasn’t?), but I also felt overwhelmed and scared. On August 14, 2019, I woke up thinking, “WOW, is today really my first day of high school?” If you know me, you know I had my hair curled, my makeup done, and a carefully chosen outfit. My friends always gave me a hard time because they knew I was never coming to school looking a hot mess unless, on the rare occasion, I overslept!
… Parker Wade Bennett—Valedictorian is the son of Kenny and Jo Bennett. He has one brother Riley Bennett. … During Parker’s high school career, he has been an active member of the National Honor Society, the 2023 EAST Conference team, and captain of Texarkana Arkansas Trap team. Parker is active in scouting and earned the distinguished rank of Eagle Scout. … Parker has received many honors and awards during his years at Arkansas High.
And you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority. —Colossians 2:10 … It can be easy to get caught up in accolades, especially in high school, where there’s an award ceremony, certificate, or title for everything you do. Especially as a senior, someone that everyone wants to recognize somehow before they leave. Especially as a teenager, someone fighting to figure out who they are and who they can be.
… VALEDICTORIAN—John Thomas Borowitz II has been named the Valedictorian for the 2023 Texas High School graduating class. He is the son of Mr. & Mrs. John Borowitz. … John Thomas is a member of the National Honor Society, the ACT Hall of Fame, the United States Senate Program, the Calculus Club, and the Statistics Club.
High school. … The most transformative and impactful journey in a teenager's life. No one has the exact same experience, and yet everyone walks away with the same diploma. Individuality is what makes life unique, and I am blessed to have had a wonderful high school experience. … Freshman year was new, fun, and sadly cut short. I started the year ranking number two in our class, and I was on top of the world.
Embracing the shadows—for without, we would never know the light. … The Albert Pike flood took my loved ones away, leaving behind an emptiness hard to bear. Grief overwhelms, and sadness leads the way, but within these depths, I finally have found the strength to share. … In the darkest night, a spark will ignite, a flame of hope that will never be lost. For within the depths, I’ll find the strength to fight, and reclaim my spirit, no matter the cost. … In the face of tragedy, my purpose unveiled to be a beacon of hope for others in despair.
… Valedictorian DEREK J. MURPHY, JR. is the son of Angela and Derek Murphy. Derek was involved in Future Business Leaders of America, National Honor Society (President), Band (Head Drum Major), Student Leadership, UIL, Varsity Golf, Talent Search (TC), Gifted and Talented, Interact Club, Texas Boys State, and Spanish Club. … … Salutatorian ABEL SILVA is the son of Esmeralda and Erasmo Silva. Abel was involved in Band, Student Council, Student Leadership, Interact Club, Spanish Club, Soccer, Talent Search (TC), Future Business Leaders of America, National Honor Society, and UIL.
People assume that I must have a picture-perfect, happy life.I am going to Harvard, and I am the valedictorian of my class. … I would disagree. The saying goes, "Don't judge a book by its cover," and it's true. Many of my successes have come with equal losses, including judgment from some classmates. Looking back at my long list of accomplishments on my senior ad or all of my acceptance letters, I realize how much I struggled to be where I am today. I can finally say, "I'm proud of myself.
… Stephanie Marie Nguyen, the Valedictorian of the 2023 graduating class of Pleasant Grove High School and is the daughter of Le and Hung Nguyen. She is a member of the President’s Education Excellence Awards Program, the University Interscholastic League Scholars Awards Program, and the Top 10% of her class. Stephanie is a 2023 Hall of Fame recipient for Career & Technology. Stephanie is a member of the National Honor Society.