Valedictorians and Salutatorians lead the Class of 2023

We are pleased to feature our high school valedictorians and salutatorians for this year.

Brandeis High School

Sashricaa Manoj Kumar is the valedictorian for Brandeis High School. She plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin Honors College and major in Neuroscience, pursuing a career as a surgeon. 

During her time at Brandeis she served as NHS President, Mu Alpha Theta Secretary, Class Treasurer, Toastmasters President, Vice President, and was involved in Academic Decathlon. 

Her most influential teacher was Maria Cisneros, a GT/ISM teacher at Brandeis High School. Kumar explained, “she has been a mentor to me inside and outside of the classroom setting. She helped me navigate all the unfamiliar scenes that high school brought forth to my family that was foreign to the United States. I would not be able to say that I was top of my class without her assistance and kindness.” 

She also thanks her parents for their support. “I want to thank my mother for always staying up late with me when I did all my work. She gave me the motivation and strength to get where I am today. My father, who always lifted me up when I was down with his very deep and inspiring advice. And finally, my brother, who always made me laugh and put a smile on my face even in the worst situations. My family was my biggest support throughout my journey, so I thank them.” 

Rebecca Ann Crisp is the salutatorian for Brandeis High School. She plans to attend Johns Hopkins University and major in Neuroscience where she plans to pursue a career as a neurosurgeon. 

During her time at Brandeis, she was Vice President of Mu Alpha Theta. 

Her most influential teacher was also GT/ISM teacher Maria Cisneros. Rebecca explained, “she was my GT and ISM teacher who helped me gain more confidence in public speaking and believing in myself. She helped guide me through my high school experience and I wouldn’t be here today without her influence!”

Brennan High School

Samantha Avril Escamilla is the valedictorian for Brennan High School. She plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin and major in Computer Science where she plans to pursue a career as a software developer. 

During her time at Brennan, she served as the Academic Decathlon Captain, Student Council Energy & Environment Chairwoman, National Honor Society member, member of the Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica, and bassist for an emo band called Phonefoot.

Her most influential teacher was Ramses Escobedo at Brennan High School. Escamilla explained, “Any time I need assistance or advice, I know I can always look to Mr. Escobedo. Despite the many instances of me bothering him with questions, some a little silly, they have never gone unanswered. I cannot express how much gratitude and appreciation I have for Mr. Escobedo's patience and consideration for not just me, but every single student that walks through his door.”

She thanks her family for their support. “Thank you Mom and Dad for never critiquing my interests and aspirations. Thank you to my sister, friends, and teachers for their support. I would also like to thank NISD’s entire GT department for never failing to make me feel special.”

Lauren Leslie Liguez is the salutatorian for Brennan High School. She will be attending the University of Oklahoma majoring in Architecture. She plans to pursue a career as a residential architect. 

During her time at Brennan, she has served as the Senior Class Vice President, Junior Class President, National Honor Society Historian, and Varsity Girls Soccer Captain. She also attended Lieck Elementary. 

Her most influential teacher was Mr. Borland. “Mr. Borland is one of those teachers you can never forget. He was more than my 4th grade teacher, as he taught me how to be myself and have confidence in my capabilities. I owe him my gratitude because he led me on a path of success by uplifting my adolescent self when I needed it the most..”

“I would also like to thank every teacher I have been blessed with at Northside, with a special thank you to my elementary school Art Teacher Mrs.Martinez, my 6th and 7th grade Art Teacher Mrs. Bennings, my 8th grade English teacher Mrs.Morales, my freshman Pre-AP Algebra II and my junior year On-Ramps Precalculus instructor Mr. Sherburne, my AP English III teacher Ms. McFeaters, my On-Ramps College Algebra teacher Mr. Perez, my high school soccer coach Coach Hurley, and my architecture teacher Mr. Williams who I have known all four years at Brennan. I would not be in the position I am today without the guidance and influence of these amazing teachers and coaches, and I will never forget the impact they made not only my education but who I am as an individual..”

Clark High School

Carlos Gerardo Valenciano, Jr. is the valedictorian for Clark High School. He will be attending Texas A&M University College Station majoring in Mechanical Engineering Honors. He plans on pursuing a career as an engineer and/or lawyer. 

While at Clark, he served as President of the Young Men's Service League, Texas State Junior Classical League Parliamentarian, Varsity Track Co-Captain, and Clark Latin Club Consul.

His most influential teacher was Casey Feldt. He explained that she exemplified showing love, dedication, and hardwork in everything one does. 

“I'd like to also thank Mr. Liendo, Mr. Pedroza, Mr. Demario, Mr. Moreno for their influence on me as a young man and for creating a love for STEM.”

Troy Anthony Friesenhahn is the salutatorian for Clark High School. He plans on attending Texas A&M College Station majoring in Finance. He plans on pursuing a career in investment banking. 

While at Clark, he served at the National Honor Society VP, Young Men's Service League President, and was a member of the Varsity Golf Team. 

His most influential teacher was Joseph Demario IV from Clark High School. Troy explains, “he was an exceptional teacher who went above and beyond to make his classroom as fun and as interesting as possible. He made sure we all grasped the curriculum but most importantly made sure we understood why we did what we did. His dedication and enthusiasm towards teaching made every single day, and every single lesson in his class an incredibly enjoyable and educational experience.”

“Special thanks to the Clark NHS sponsor Mrs. McFarland for teaching us officers all the skills it takes to run and plan for such a massive organization. Also, I'm very grateful for my elementary school teachers Mrs. Feldt, who taught me 4th and 5th grade, as well as Mrs. Luna, who was my GT teacher for 1st through 5th.”

Communications Arts High School

Peyton Alexandra Braun is the Valedictorian for Communications Arts High School. She plans to attend Texas A&M College Station majoring in Environmental Geoscience to pursue a career as an atmospheric scientist. 

Her most influential NISD teacher was Mr. Donald Ellis who she had for OnRamps chemistry at Taft High School. Peyton explains, “despite the virtual setting, his enthusiasm helped me discover my own passion, which ultimately led me to pursue a degree in natural science, and made it one of my favorite courses from high school.”

“I would like to thank my family for everything they have done in supporting my education and goals. My parents have laid the foundation for my future and I will be forever grateful for their endless confidence in me and the countless rides to my activities, especially the 2 a.m. marching contests. I truly couldn’t ask for a better support system.”

Karlee Nedra English is the salutatorian for Communications Arts High School. She plans on attending the University of Texas at Austin majoring in Medical Laboratory Science. She plans to pursue a career as a medical laboratory scientist in the field of oncology and hematology

While at Communications Arts, she served as the Vice President of the Spanish National Honor Society, Treasurer of the Spanish National Honor Society, Bassline Captain on Taft’s drumline, and Team Captain of my competitive gymnastics team at Powerhouse.

Her most influential teacher was Maestra Dora Delgado, her Spanish teacher and Spanish National Honor Society sponsor. English explains, “every other subject in school has been very easy for me to learn, but not being a native Spanish speaker has forced me to practice more outside of class than with my other subjects. Maestra Delgado always noticed my extra work and encouraged me to push myself past my limits with the Spanish language and in other areas of my life.”

“I would like to thank my parents, brother David, my teachers, and coaches, Pentcho Pentchev and Nina Pentcheva, for all of their support during my fully loaded four years of high school.”

Construction Careers Academy

Lauren Ashley Serna is the Valedictorian for Construction Careers Academy. She plans on attending Texas A&M College Station majoring major in Biomedical Engineering. She plans to pursue a career as a Neural Engineer. 

While at Construction Careers Academy, she served as President of the Warriors for Christ Club, Student Engineering mentor for the CCA Engineering Mentorship Program, and was a Member of the CCA Student Cabinet. 

Her most influential teacher was her elementary Gifted and Talented teacher, Mr. Burleson. “Even at a young age, Mr. Burleson believed that all his students had the potential to grow up to do great things. The lessons he taught us created great and enjoyable learning experiences that sparked a passion in my heart for things I have learned to love and will pursue in the future.”

“First, I thank God because, without Him, none of this would have been possible for me to accomplish. Secondly, I would like to thank my parents for always loving me, believing in me, and encouraging me to work hard in all I do. Lastly, I would like to thank all my teachers, friends, and family for the encouragement and kindness they showed me every day and for making my life so much brighter. Thank you Mrs. Perez and Mrs. Clarke for always making me laugh and smile.”

Dallin Matthew Havell is the salutatorian for Construction Careers Academy. He plans on attending Brigham Young University majoring in Microbiology and Immunology. He plans on pursuing a career as a Microbiologist. 

While at Construction Careers Academy, he served on CCA Student's Cabinet and was an Electrical simulator team leader.

“I've had far too many excellent teachers to count, but my CCA instructor Armando Orta certainly stands apart,” says Dallin. “Mr. Orta has an excellent system of teaching where we gain both classroom and hands-on knowledge of the trade. In addition, he cares about each of his students and is more than willing to answer our questions and help line us up for success in our career. He has been an excellent role model for me and a wonderful teacher.”

He thanks, “the phenomenal teachers I've had as well as my friends, family, and most importantly God. I'm very grateful for the opportunity I had to receive a quality education. Although I plan to pursue a career other than construction, my time at Construction Careers Academy was still immensely valuable to me. I truly believe CCA to be one of the best schools in the district and loved every moment of it.”

Harlan High School

Marcus Thaddeus Roque Fojas is the Valedictorian for Harlan High School. He will be attending the University of Texas at Austin majoring in Engineering. He plans to pursue a career in engineering. His parents are Gideon Fojas and Joan Fojas.

He cites his most influential NISD teacher as, “Ms. Danielle Dylinski, who I took for AP Biology in Junior Year at Harlan High School. She was not only an effective yet generous teacher, but was also undoubtedly the funniest and most fun teacher to talk to. Special thanks to all my teachers and classmates that have given me a great school experience.”

Maya Jane Gaylor is the Salutatorian for Harlan High School. She plans on attending Our Lady of the Lake University majoring in Psychology. She plans on pursuing a career in counseling. 

“The programs that NISD has offered greatly prepared me for college,” says Gaylor. “Being able to participate in the Gifted and Talented program as a younger student set me up for success by cultivating ambition and natural curiosity while giving me the skills to gather and present information.”

Gaylor would like to thank, “all of the staff at NISD that I have interacted with over the years as well as my parents. Most of all, I'd like to thank all of the friends I've ever had, whether they are still my friends or not: they have helped me become the person I am today.”

Health Careers High School

Kishan Darshan Patel is the valedictorian for Health Careers High School. He plans on attending the University of Texas at Austin and will major in Biochemistry. He plans on pursuing a career as a physician. 

While at Health Career High School, he served as President of the HCHS band program, Vice President of the HCHS band program, and Phoenix Connect Student Mentor. 

His most influential teacher was Cathryn Fowler, band director at Health Careers. Patel explains that she, “is the sole reason why my dedication for music is still so strong and why I plan on continuing it after high school. She has always encouraged me to do my best, and is crystal clear of her high expectations for me.”

“I thank my parents first and foremost for always supporting every single one of my interests. They've sacrificed a lot for my happiness and I can't imagine how I can thank them for everything they've done for me, other than the 10% off "family and friends" discount from whatever place I'll work at. I also want to thank my sister Arya. I tell her straight-up all the time that I'm not gonna miss her when I go off to college. However, I admit I'm going to lose a vital source of daily drama. Perhaps more importantly, I'll be separated from my first friend. Finally, I want to thank all of my teachers who did their best to make learning enjoyable, and all of my friends who put up with me and provided me with moments I'll never forget.”

Elise Esther Disrud is the salutatorian for Health Careers High School. She plans on attending Trinity University and will major in Chemistry. She plans on pursuing a career as a physician. Her parents are Romana Disrud and Jon Disrud. 

While at Health Careers, she served as the Latin Club Praetor and Vocabulary Category 

Her most influential teachers were John Chu and Kenneth Van Eimeren, Latin teachers at Health Careers. Disrud explains, “these teachers had a significant impact on me because they not only encouraged me to be a better student, but a better person. In addition to helping me expand my knowledge of culture, language, and history, they emphasized the importance of being honest and having good character.”

She thanks those who have supported her. “Thank you to my family for supporting me throughout my education. Thank you to all of my teachers for your help, hard work, and support. Thank you Malaika for being such a kind, loyal, and honest friend.”

Holmes High School

Eunice Aba Koduaba Adoe is the valedictorian for Holmes High School. She will be attending the University of Texas at San Antonio majoring in Biology. She plans to pursue a career as a physical therapist. 

During her time at Holmes she served as an AVID student leader, Art Club President, National Honor Society member, National Association of Women Business Owners, and was involved in the High School Mentorship Program.

Her most influential teacher was Monica Yzaguirre, AVID teacher at Holmes High School. “In short, I aspire to be like her. She's selfless, dedicated, and empowering. She's influential to me because she believes that anyone can change their story if they are willing. She's also there for her students mentally and physically. She edits thousands of words per day for us to write amazing essays for our college and scholarship applications. Because of her, my senior year experience was tolerable since she's there every step of the application processes for college and scholarship applications.”

“Special thanks to freshman cross country coaches Coach Boag and Coach Barlow. They made my transition into NISD a bit easier for me. Thank you to my counselor, Ms. De Luna, and my culinary arts teacher, Mr. Arguirre. Thank you to my parents for their countless sacrifices.”

John Angel Molina is the salutatorian for Holmes High School. He will be attending The University of North Texas and will major in Pre-Occupational Therapy. He plans on pursuing a career as an occupational therapist. 

During his time at Holmes, he served as Basketball Manager in Freshman year, AVID Student Leader, Spanish National Honor Society Member, and National Honor Society Member.

His most influential teacher was Monica Yzaguirre, his AVID teacher who taught him for three years at Holmes High School. “I had a narrow view in school until ninth grade and only considered completing my assignments as necessary. But, she has taught me the importance of building connections with others and having fun with my peers.”

Jay High School

Cassandra Adalyne Olson is the Valedictorian for Jay High School. She Plans on attending Texas A&M University San Antonio majoring in Biology. She plans on pursuing a career as a veterinarian. 

Her most influential teacher was Annette Bergman from Rayburn Middle School. Olson explains, “Ms. Bergman was one of the first teachers to make me feel like I was worth something and had great potential lying within me. If it were not for her, I would’ve felt alone. She included me and helped guide me through my school career.”

“I would like to thank my mom for being my most dedicated supporter in my accomplishment of Valedictorian. She has been patient with me at home and very supportive especially given the fact she’s a hard-working single mother of three.”

Miranda Aracelie Vann is the salutatorian for Jay High School. She plans on attending the University of Texas at San Antonio majoring in Business Administration. She plans to pursue a career working for a non-profit organization.

Her most influential teacher was Alma Villarrea, AP U.S. History teacher at Jay High School. 

“Thank you to Mr. Freeze, Mr. Gardner, and my business teacher Ms. Martinez for your constant support.”

Jay Science and Engineering Academy

Rebekah Blythe Jones is the valedictorian for Jay Science and Engineering Academy. She plans to attend Texas A&M University College Station and will major in Construction Science. She plans to pursue a career as a civil engineer in the Air Force. 

During her time at Jay SEA, she served as the Vice Wing Commander of TX-782nd John Jay JROTC,  Physical Training Team Commander, Kitty Hawk Honor Society President, Sophomore and Junior Class Secretary, and Design Team Lead.

Her most influential teacher was Sarah Chapa at Jay SEA. “She helped me explore my love for math in both Algebra 2 and Computer Science principles, and I’ve been able to make several successful apps to compute factors and multiples with the click of a button, and even coded an app to calculate cumulative GPA with the district’s formula.”

“Thanks to my physical training team who came every day after school to endure workout after workout and who put their best foot forward every single day and at every single competition. You’ve been the best team a commander could ask for. Go Sentigades!”

Kiera Joy C Ocampo is the salutatorian for Jay Science and Engineering Academy. She will be attending Texas A&M University College Station majoring  in Civil Engineering. She plans on pursuing a career as a project manager or certified professional engineer. 

During her time at Jay SEA, she served as a captain on the John Jay Robotics Team, 2023 Class President, National Honor Society Chapter President, Head Co-Chair of the STEM Festival, and STEM Outreach Team Lead.

Her most influential teacher was Debbie Cuellar from Murnin Elementary. “She was a teacher that inspired me to be ambitious for my dreams, outgoing for my beliefs, and determined for my passions. The biggest lesson she had taught me was to believe in my capabilities as I could do all I want as long as I’m willing to put in the work. Ms. Debbie Cuellar, thank you for truly being the reason I want to impact others positively.”

“I want to thank my family for the constant support of understanding of my busy schedule and breakdowns from stress, my friends for letting me truly experience what it feels to make memories and not just be a robot, my teachers and sponsors for allowing me to lead and impact the newer generations, and to everyone else that has allowed me to influence you as make as you’ve influenced me.”

Marshall High School

Alana Jo Marie Frandsen is the valedictorian for Marshall High School. She plans to attend the University of Texas at San Antonio and major in Studio Arts, pursuing a career as an Art Therapist or Novelist.

While at Marshall, she has served as the librarian of the JMHS Orchestra and Treasurer of the ASL Honor Society.

Her most influential teacher was John Thornton. “He is one of the most influential and important teachers I have ever met. He was more than just a teacher; a role model, a leader, a kind hearted person that supported people's dreams. He pushed me and everyone else in the orchestra to try our best. He sacrificed hours, days, and weeks to be committed to the orchestra.”

“I want to thank my parents and grandparents for always pushing me to do my best. When I was struggling in more ways than one, that supported me and helped me get through whatever challenges I was facing. I'd like to thank my friends as well for brightening my life and making what once was a scary time into years of fun, laughter, and joyous adventures. There was never a dull moment, and I will surely love and miss everyone as we head into the next chapters of our lives.”

Emily Gail Burhans is the salutatorian for Marshall High School. She plans on attending Texas A&M College Station and will major in chemistry. She plans on pursuing a career as a nuclear chemist. 

Her most influential teacher was Cristina Loyd at Marshall High School. “She was my most influential teacher as she helped me to come out of my shell, really find myself, and taught me that my best doesn’t always have to be perfect. Through our ASL performances, I have been able to find love for anything I do even if it is not perfect as I messed up many signs. Then through the ASL honor society run by Ms.Loyd, I have found a second home that has allowed me to discover and explore my true self. Without Ms.Loyd, I would not be who I am today.”

“I’d also like to thank my parents and my best friend Taleen.”

Marshall Law and Medical Services

Danielle Faith Colón is the valedictorian for Marshall Law and Medical Services (LMS). She will be attending Rice University majoring in Business and Psychology. She plans on pursuing a career as an Entrepreneur.

While at Marshal LMS, she served as 2023 Class President, Kindness Society President and Founder, Orchestra VP and Principal Violist, and LMS Future Health Professionals (HOSA) Secretary/Treasurer.

“I want to thank my family (shoutout to Gabi, my sibling) for supporting my goals and making me laugh when I need it most. Most importantly, I would like to thank my mom for encouraging me to be confident in myself. She's believed in me since day one and stood by my side on my best and worst days. Words cannot describe how much of an impact she has had on my life. Thanks to her, I have learned to see the best in everyone and make the most of any situation. Love you mucho, mother!”

Wilzaid Laura Santiago-Maldonado is the salutatorian for Marshall LMSl. She will be attending St. Mary’s University majoring in Psychology. She hopes to pursue a career as a family lawyer. While at Marshall LMS, she has served as a Senior Mentor. 

“NISD has provided me with many opportunities I've realized I may not have had in other districts or schools and I am so very grateful for it all,” says Wilzaid. “Through the various AP and Dual Credit courses I have taken, I can say that I have at least been exposed to the work ethic and quality of college courses.”

“I just want to thank all of the staff and administration who have taken part in my education.” 

Northside School of Innovation, Technology & Entrepreneurship (NSITE)

Taylor Elizabeth Neely is the valedictorian for INSITE. She plans on attending the University of Texas at Austin majoring in Computer Science. She hopes to pursue a career as a Cybersecurity Specialist. 

During her time at NSITE, she has served as BPA President and Junior Class president.

Her most influential teacher was Ronda Simon from Leon Springs Elementary. “She encouraged me to break out of my shell and was the first teacher to realize my potential.”

Sarah Denise Jabian is the salutatorian for NSITE. She will be attending the University of Texas at San Antonio majoring in Computer Science. She plans to pursue a career as a cybersecurity engineer. 

Her most influential teacher was Ms. Miranda Garcia at NSITE. “Her passion for environmental science  was infectious. She made it fun to learn through experiments and projects. Our field trip to Lost Maples will forever be a core memory in my mind. I couldn’t be more grateful to have had such an amazing teacher.”

“Thank you to all those who made me not dread coming to school. Those who supported me, pushed me, and stuck with me through it all. I’m forever grateful for all the relationships I was able to create, from kindergarten to senior year. How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”

O’Connor High School

Jayvin Louis Pena is the valedictorian for O’Connor High School. He will be attending Harvard College majoring in Computer Science. He plans on pursuing a career in software development or engineering. 

During his time at O’Connor, he served as Eagle Scout and Senior Patrol Leader of Boy Scout Troop 152, Tuba Section Leader of O'Connor Band and 1st Chair of O'Connor Wind Ensemble, Mu Alpha Theta President, and Math UIL Team Captain.

His most influential teacher was Shelley Beck, GT Science teacher at Garcia Middle School. “She taught everyone with kindness and consideration, giving attention to every single student and allowing us to embrace our curiosity and personalities. Mrs. Beck played a huge role in inspiring me to pursue my dreams, and I wouldn't be the person I am, in the place that I am, without her.”

“To my parents who I love so much, thank you for always supporting me no matter what. Thank you for every concert and football game y'all attended, every event you volunteered at, listening to me ramble about random stuff that happened throughout my day, and all the times I needed help with school or life and you gave the best help or best answer you could even when it was something you didn't know. Thank you to my brothers, who gave me unconditional companionship despite how annoying we all were to one another. Thank you to the tuba section for working so hard and for giving me some of my best memories. Thank you to my friends who helped me value myself, who made life fruitful, and who I could talk about anything with. And thank you to all my wonderful teachers for believing in me, sharing my passion for learning, and persisting through one of the toughest times to be a teacher in our country.”

Nicholas Adolfo Padilla is the salutatorian for O’Connor High School. He will be attending Texas A&M College Station majoring in Engineering. He plans to pursue a career as an electrical engineer for the automotive industry.

During his time at O’Connor, he served as the Marching Band Section Leader.

His most influential teacher was Michael Kobilsek, 9th grade geometry teacher at O’Connor. “I always loved how he could show us real life applications because it made all my hard work feel like it would be worth something in the end. I looked forward to his 5th period class every day and I really couldn’t have asked for a better teacher.”

“I’d like to give thanks to my family for always supporting me every step of the way. They’ve been my foundation my whole life and I couldn’t have done it without them. I’d also like to thank Mr. Clarke, my high school counselor. I’d also like to thank my band directors Mr. Alvarado, Mr. Valdez, and Mr. Bradford for showing me my love for music and creating the environments that some of my best high school memories come from. Thank you to Ms. Smith as well for also being extremely patient and helpful with all my emails. Thank you to Mr. Naas for creating the most fun and memorable classroom environment that I will probably ever experience. I’d also like to recognize Mrs. Schultz and Mrs. Boehle, my 2nd and 3rd grade teachers, for being amazing teachers and creating very welcoming learning environments. And last but not least, thank you to all three math teachers Mr. Kobilsek, Mrs. Odom, and Mrs. Potter for keeping my love for math alone throughout my four years in high school. I would’ve been really sad if I left high school not liking math.”

Stevens High School

Juliet Attena Sencion is the valedictorian for Stevens High School. She will be attending Cornell University majoring in Environment and Sustainability. She plans on pursuing a career as a lawyer.

During her time at Stevens, she served as Environmental Science club president, Debate Captain junior year, and Tennis Captain junior year.

“Thanks to my coaches Dr. Jan Seiter and Royce Cook”

Esther John is the salutatorian for Stevens High School. She will be attending the University of Houston majoring in Nursing. She plans to pursue a career as a travel nurse. 

Her most influential teacher was Coach McMullin. “She was my track and basketball coach in 7th and 8th grade, and I don't think I've met a more kind and passionate coach. She valued every single one of her players like her own children and inspired us beyond our potential. She has played an essential role in the person I am today. There were days when I felt like quitting, but she always reminded me to finish what I started. It's the lesson I've taken along my journey in life, and will forever cherish her wisdom.” 

Taft High School

Alexi Marie Fernandez is the valedictorian for Taft High School. She will be attending Texas A&M University College Station majoring in Economics. She plans to become a CEO in the business or marketing field. 

During her time at Taft, she served as the Student Council vice president and the senior class chair.

Her most influential NISD teachers were Kenneth Wray, Kaelen Morrow, Scott Davis, Jacqueline Reynolds, Christian Gowen, and Lauren Malik.

“I would like to thank my family, and all who have supported me through thick and thin over the years helping to make me who she is today.”

Javier Mendoza, Jr. is the Salutatorian for Taft High School. He plans on attending the University of Texas at Austin majoring in Biology. He hopes to pursue a career in medicine.

While at Taft, he served as a member of the Principal Advisory Panel and as a Football Manager. 

Mrs. Anzaldua was his most influential teacher. “Mrs. Anzaldua instilled in me a passion for learning at a young age and is a main reason for my goal of being a lifelong student. She taught me the importance of hard work through her tough love and emphasis on her students' success. I owe a great deal of my curiosity and my ability to persevere through challenges to her.”

“I want to give a special thanks to my family, friends, and teachers that have accompanied me through this chapter of my life. Every single one of you has inspired me to push myself harder every day and become the best version of myself”

Warren High School

Giselle Delcarmen Rodriguez Chavez is the Valedictorian for Warren High School. She will be attending Rice University majoring in Bioengineering. She plans on pursuing a career as a pediatric neurosurgeon.

While at Warren, she served as a Big Future Ambassador, Co-head in Student Council, President in Westover Tutoring Network, Windemere Nursing Home Volunteering President, and Ambassador and Designer for the Future Youth Initiative.

Her most influential teacher was Bridgit Nicks, her fifth grade teacher from Adams Hill Elementary. Chavez explained, “she was exceptional not only for being a mentor who guided young minds in a trivial world but also for reinforcing morals. Although just moving from El Paso, Texas, which was my hometown, she ensured to provide me with the comfort and security that a vulnerable child needs.”

“I would like to thank where my ultimate inspiration comes from: my parents and older brother. In particular, my mom has been my guidepost, beacon of light, and best friend who has supported me in ways I will never be able to compensate for. She has embraced an inexhaustible attempt for me to follow role models like Rita Moreno, Gloria Estefan, and Ellen Ochoa without realizing I have been aspiring to be like her. My brother will also be the one person whose reliability, humor, and leadership I will always count on. I cannot tell where I would be without my family and God.”

Jose Nicolas Campos is the salutatorian for Warren High School. He will be attending Emory University. 

His most influential teacher was Quinten Smith from Warren High School. Campos explained, “He goes above and beyond while being down-to-earth, cordial, self-aware, and witty. His dedication, humor, and selflessness make him one of the most remarkable teachers I’ve ever met.”

“I owe so much to my incredible teachers for teaching me how to overcome life’s struggles and imperfections. Thank you Mr. Shimal for reminding me to balance work and life. Thank you Mr. Haston for teaching me to value growth over grades. Thank you Mr. Stilwell for teaching me to fail forward and avoid overthinking. These are just some of the great lessons I’ve learned. I wouldn’t be who I am without them. I extend my thanks to all of my inspirational, whimsical, and cordial teachers. Lastly, I want to thank my parents for giving me the opportunity to spread my wings and make them proud. My best and worst moments have been with them. Life wouldn’t be the same without their sacrifices and diligence. I hope to not let any of the special friends and family in my life down.”