Top of Class: New student tackles workload
After moving to the United States from Pakistan midway into her sophomore year, Hajra Saeed pushed herself to excel in school and maintain a 4.0 grade point average. “Living in…
Top of Class: Roman sees future in politics
Attaining the valedictorian title required more than pure intelligence; according to senior Sidney Matthew Roman, it entailed a personal drive to fulfill inner passion. Roman graduates at the top of…
Top of the class: Journalist challenges herself to excel
Despite all the requirements of a student, senior Megan Pirino went above and beyond during her high school years, and maintained a 4.0 GPA. Involved in multiple clubs and organizations,…
Top of Class: Page balances academics, social life
Juggling school and club soccer, yearbook and other extracurriculars, senior Olivia Page managed to balance her activities and academics to maintain a perfect GPA to become a valedictorian. “It takes…
Top of Class: Orlando finds strength in religion and friendships
Through perseverance, friendships and prayer, Dominick Orlando achieved his goal of being a valedictorian. Orlando found guidance through his faith and relationship with God, turning to prayer in times of…
Top of the class: Naranjo struggles with finding balance
Valedictorian Bob Vince Naranjo focused on balancing family, friends, the heath science academy, various clubs, and out of school activities, like singing and playing his guitar, all while maintaining a…
Top of Class: Journalist balances club activities and academics
From the sideline of the football field on Friday nights to Room 224 designing yearbook spreads, valedictorian Emma McClane kept herself busy, but also found time to focus on her…
Top of Class: Attitude determines success
Managing her health, school work, swimming, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Baking Braves, Math Club, Always Wear Your Seatbelt Club, the Finance Magnet, Central Florida Credit Union and student government, Grace…
‘Dear White People’ exposes real issues
In a post-racial story where biases, prejudices and cultural divides still exist, the importance of addressing modern racism becomes a key factor to understand a prevalent racial divide in society.…
Top of class: Dai overcomes language barrier
After moving to America from China in seventh grade, valedictorian Xiaojin Dai faced the challenge of learning English and familiarizing herself with American culture. “ English. I took twice or…