Senior Spotlight 2024

Mark Schuler taught Pouya in his sophomore year at Cambridge High School.

“He has gone through so much adversity that he had every opportunity to essentially give up and I’ve never noticed that in my class,” said Schuler.

Pouya’s light shines through his determination in everything he does. And this light honors his mother and father. Their family came to the United States from Iran when Pouya was very young, fleeing religious persecution.

“My family moved to the USA with barely any money, and it was a hard life growing up,” Pouya says.

When they arrived in America, life got harder.

His father went out to buy groceries one day and never came home – passing away after a medical emergency.

With no source of income in a new country, Pouya, his mother, and his brother moved into an abandoned apartment complex that was so dangerous, Evans says the school bus would not pick them up. So dangerous that the day the two brothers came home from school and found their mother, dead, Evans says emergency services, “didn’t even want to come to the neighborhood.”

After losing both his parents -- Pouya “fell apart” says Evans.

His life turned around with a post on social media. A Facebook group for the local Iranian community heard about the situation facing Pouya and his brother. Evans says they were taken in by a family who opened their hearts, never having met the two. Pouya enrolled at Cambridge High School.

Schuler reflects on when he first met Pouya. As a sophomore in Schuler’s AP World History class, his start was understandably overwhelming. But, says Schuler, “as the year went on, he just slipped right into the routine.”

Schuler says his student brings “a wealth of experiences” to Cambridge. Pouya says Schuler is his favorite teacher.

“He’s very entertaining” Pouya says of Schuler.

While Pouya appreciates an entertaining teacher, he is serious in the classroom. He describes himself as hardworking with a love of science. He finds time to unwind by going to the gym every day and playing piano.

After graduation, he will expand his love of science at Kennesaw State University, pursuing a track in biomedical engineering. He plans to transfer to Georgia Tech.

Schuler says Pouya is a “beacon to other students who have gone through adversity.”

“It’s so easy to give up,” Schuler says. “Pouya didn’t do that and I think that’s powerful.”

As he sets out on the next chapter in his journey, Pouya has this advice:

“Keep inspiring yourself to keep going, and definitely just strive every day to make yourself better.”

Released Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Navigating the American educational system was challenging for Mo’s parents. She admires her mom for pushing higher education and sees how hard her mom works to hold her family together.

“When I first met Mo, she came to me with her life plan mapped out,” said Counseling Department chair Wanda Moran. “She was in 10th grade.”

Mo is a student in science teacher and researcher Dr. Kathleen Maloney’s AP Physics class. She inspires Mo.

“She really values learning,” Dr. Maloney says. “It means so much to me as a teacher to see a student at her young age valuing understanding concepts as a primary goal of learning, rather than grades.”

In addition to excelling in school, Mo plays the viola makes sandwiches for those in need through the Sandwich Project. With her quiet leadership, amazing academics, and genuine empathy, she has championed the community during her time at FCS Innovation Academy.

As she graduates, she’ll face new challenges.

“It’s hard for a woman, especially a woman of color going into engineering at a place like MIT, to believe in herself,” Dr. Maloney says. “Mo has what it takes to succeed at MIT.”

While many are pressured into a number of activities while in high school, Mo cautions students not to be pressured by academics. “Students may feel pressured to take 10 AP classes and collect them like Pokeman cards for talking points,” Mo says. “By losing the pressure of impressing or pleasing other people, you’ll naturally start to focus more on yourself.”

Released Wednesday, May 15, 2024

“Being selected by my school to represent them and be recognized for my efforts is very heartwarming,” he says.

Independence graduation coach Toni Daniels loves Christian’s contributions to the classroom.

“Christian finishes his work first, is a mentor to other students, and is a joy for teachers to have in the classroom,” says Daniels. “He brings a level of responsibility, respect, and peer interaction that’s always positive.”

“Having moved from Florida to Georgia, it’s been hard knowing that I don’t necessarily know what’s in front of me or what the future can hold,” he says. “But knowing that I have faith or that I can stay true to myself and hope for something better, I know I can get through it.”

Christian credits his father as having the biggest influence on his life.

“He’s been a real friend,” Christian says. “Without him, I know I couldn’t be in the position I am today. He’s taught me to be respectful, to think wisely and to think things out. He’s taught me about cars, money, and economics. He’s just a real-life teacher.”

After graduation, Christian plans to join the Air Force and pursue a career in cybersecurity. He remains open about how long he will stay in but is considering a job with the federal government or starting his own company after being discharged from the military.

For students entering high school Christian has this advice: “Stay calm and keep level-headed. Life in high school is unpredictable and will be crazy, fun, sad or bad, but just keep a level head and enjoy it. Four years goes by really fast.”

Released Wednesday, May 15, 2024

“Kyle was the best film study guy on staff,” says Athletic Director Kirk Call. “He could really break down films and go through them with coaches. And the players see him there every day. He never misses. It makes them work harder.”

His charisma is noticed by all.

“In the hallways and in classes, he’s always engaging with other students,” says Call. “He leads whatever he is involved in. He is a shining example of what we want our students to represent here.”

Kyle, who has muscular dystrophy, plays power soccer outside of school.

Kyle explains, “It is soccer played from go-kart wheelchairs. It’s an exciting and fast-paced sport. I’m number six, like my idol LeBron James.”

Kyle plans to attend Auburn University where he was offered a scholarship to play power soccer. His goal is to try out for the World Cup and play internationally.

Assistant coach and mentor Tom Ball, now deceased, had a great influence on Kyle. They met in his freshman year.

“He made me pay attention to stuff around me,” says Kyle. “He told me to hear people and respect their views. He was like a grandfather. We disagreed and argued, but that made our relationship better.”

Kyle’s favorite subjects are history, A/V technology and math. He likes how we can “learn from history.” He thinks “creating a story from start to finish” through film is awesome. And thanks to math teacher and coach Joe Eineker, “math is approachable and something I want to do now.”

When asked what advice he would give students starting on their high school journey, Kyle said to be part of the community by joining clubs, sports and other extracurriculars.

“Have fun, take classes that are difficult and classes that you are interested in,” he says.

Calls advice to Kyle is to “maintain that positive attitude you bring to the world. Dream big and go for broke.”

Released Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Today, Liberty Hill Elementary School fourth grader Josiah Bostic is healthy.

“For me it was inspiring,” says Jorden. “Because of God’s goodness and working miracles, Josiah has full functionality.”

The 10-year-old is active, often engaging with friends.

“He inspired me to choose a career in medicine,” she said. “I plan to become a general surgeon. I want to make sure this trauma doesn’t happen to other families.”

The talented senior will no doubt accomplish her desire.

“She’s a leader,” said Langston Hughes Principal Octavius Harris. “She’s in the top one percent of her class and is also an excellent trumpet player. She just has an infectious personality.”

Langston Hughes science teacher Tyron Jackson agrees.

“Jorden is the epitome of what a Langston Hughes scholar is,” Jackson said. “She’s passionate about the sciences, very meticulous about her work and loves to ask questions.”

Langston Hughes school counselor Cassandra Bolding notes that Jorden has taken advantage of opportunities.

“The Quest Bridge Scholarship opportunity was presented to Jorden and other students,” Bolding said. “She followed through. Although she did not win the scholarship, she made it from the pool of 27,000 who applied for the coveted scholarship to 6,000 finalists nationwide. The scholarship is for high school seniors who have shown outstanding academic ability despite financial challenges.”

Jorden’s favorite quote is from the late Dr. Charles Stanley. It reads, “discipline determines your destiny.”

“I plan on participating in civic engagement as well as research programs to combat healthcare disparities within the world,” Jorden said.

No doubt her brother Josiah will continue to be an inspiration.

“He’s a miracle,” she said.

Released Wednesday, May 15, 2024

“I was pushing the sushi carts around,” he says.

His father started the restaurant after dropping out of college, not long after he and Wynnson’s mother moved to the United States from China. When the restaurant failed, Zheng’s father enrolled in a community college, then transferred to Georgia Tech. Wynnson says he and his father would work on math problems together.

“His work ethic really had a profound impact on me,” says Wynnson.

The promising student shares that impact in the classroom every day.

“To be excellent involves the risk of failure,” says Savannah Wilkerson, Wynnson’s school counselor at Northview.

Wilkerson says it can be difficult for high-performing students, “to embrace the struggle that goes along with being their best selves, really challenging themselves.” She says Wynnson, “embraces his passion for struggle as a means to grow and learn.”

In college, Wynnson plans to pursue computer science, possibly at Georgia Tech. But he has a love of writing, too. He says his English teacher, Matt Cekanor, gave him the freedom to, “express myself and express my beliefs.”

Cekanor says Wynnson stands out because of his “unique approach.”

“He prioritizes a kind of critical thinking and openness to questioning and willingness to be contrarian,” says Cekanor. “He has a willingness to push peers towards something of a different perspective on an issue.”

Wynnson’s teachers say his ability to broaden perspectives will take him far.

“He is very willing to jump out of line,” says Cekanor. “I think that needs to be something he sticks with.”

Released Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Rasheed’s father passed away last year, and he played a large role in caring for him in his last days.

Principal Lett admires the strength Rasheed has shown and has confidence in the trajectory of his future.

“Rasheed leans on his interpersonal strength and he's had to do that for much of his life,” Dr. Lett says. “Losing his father right before his senior year, he's learned to rely on himself to get through this final year. If he continues to rely on his inner strength within him, he's going to make a fantastic student at Georgia Tech.”

Rasheed is also confident that he will continue to excel in his academics to honor his father and the lessons he has learned.

“After graduation, I plan to continue my studies at Georgia Tech,” Rasheed says. “I'm going to major in psychology and business. I'm also going to continue to study music with the orchestra and hopefully walk on with the Georgia Tech football team.”

Rasheed will be leaving a legacy not only as an exceptional student, but as a participant in extracurricular activities like the football team, orchestra and the Fulton County Schools’ Honor Orchestra.

“I can play the violin, viola, piano, guitar and saxophone,” he said.

Tri-Cities English-Language Arts teacher Donnaree Matthews noted the impact the multi-talented student has made on her.

“There was a time he had some family issues going on and there was a lot of weight on his shoulders,” she says. “Once I figured out what was going on, he and I had a few conversations. During that time, he handled himself with such grace.”

Emmanuel Shahid, Rasheed’s mentor, has seen him grow in school and personally. He also witnessed Rasheed’s father’s impact.

“[Rasheed] has risen to the occasion to be a fine and intelligent young man,” Shahid says. “Now he's accepted at Georgia Tech based on his academics. I know he's going to want to continue to play his instrument and join the orchestra there, as well as the football team.”

The village surrounding him reflects how he carries himself.

“It’s very rare that you can find a young man who can play five instruments,” Shahid says. “From the violin to the piano, he can do it all. He can also write music.”

Honoring his father’s memory Rasheed will persevere because of the support of others.

“People in my life kept me encouraged,” he says. “They kept me strong. I would really like to extend my gratitude and thanks to everyone who has poured into me.”

Released Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Assistant Principal Dr. Ingrid Parham agrees. She says Vitoria, “has just evolved into this beautiful, ambitious young woman who is trying so sincerely.”

Many of Vitoria’s successes as a student, such as dual enrollment, are reflected on her transcript. But teachers and staff at Chattahoochee chose her for Senior Spotlight for another reason -- her willingness to build a more positive path for her future.

At one point in high school, Vitoria was around people who she says, “were not good for me or to me.” And she says her grades, “weren’t very good.”

“There were moments where she would have difficulties and just not go to school,” says Johnson.

Vitoria started high school during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a first-generation American, remote learning was especially difficult for her. Vitoria's parents are from Brazil. Johnson says Vitoria was often, “navigating on her own because her parents didn’t speak English well enough to be able to help her navigate.”

“We plugged in and had some conversations,” says Johnson.

In one conversation during her sophomore year, with encouragement from Johnson, Vitoria set a goal.

“You’ve got a semester to show me what you can do,” Johnson told her. “I think we should send you to college.”

The following year, Vitoria started dual enrollment – earning college credit as she continued high school. That success fueled more success. Vitoria says she, “got it together and was really applying myself to my classes and studying more.”

Vitoria’s English teacher, Anne-Marie Hanson, describes Vitoria as “a great role model.” Hanson says Vitoria has shown students, “what they can achieve if they really want to change.”

Vitoria is fascinated by the power of the mind and plans to study Occupational Therapy at Georgia State. She says she loves working with children, and adds, “learning and seeing how the mind works is very interesting to me.”

“There are no limitations for Vitoria,” says Dr. Parham.

Released Wednesday, May 8, 2024

Andy’s energy exemplifies what FAVE strives for. The flexibility of online school allowed him to work on an internship in illustration and design at Georgia Tech while managing the demanding work of Advanced Placement (AP) courses.

FAVE is, “a little different from a traditional school system,” he says. “I think it’s really great.”

He is humble about being chosen for Senior Spotlight, saying, “there are many other amazing students at FAVE.” But if you ask his teachers, he stands out for many reasons.

As an Honors, AP, and International Baccalaureate (IB) teacher, Lakshmi Anumukonda works with high-achieving students in chemistry and biology. She describes Andy as, “brilliant, very hardworking and a determined student.”

FAVE principal, Dr. Taylor Barton, says Andy’s commitment to his fellow students helps bring the virtual classroom community together. “He’s ‘others-minded,’” says Dr. Barton. “That’s what I value about him.”

Dr. Barton calls Andy a “quiet leader.” He is part of the National Honor Society. Andy serves on the Student Governance Council, working to ensure clear communication between students and school leaders. Andy also helps FAVE students prepare for tests at the end of each year.

Dr. Morris says Andy works hard to, “make sure the school is functioning the way that it should be.”

Andy will continue to represent the benefits of FAVE and its flexibility as a student at Georgia Tech, where he will study Industrial Design.

He says what FAVE offers for students opened doors for him and adds, “it really works well together.”

Released Wednesday, May 8, 2024

“I couldn't think of anyone else greater than Christina to be our first Senior Spotlight,” said GIA Principal Johnathan Hall. “Christina exhibits a lot of characteristics that I want to see in all our students. She's integral. She carries herself with poise and grace. And she's self-motivated.”

Brittany Gibson, GIA counselor said, “What she's done in three years, and even starting high school with countless credits, just says a lot about her tenacity, that she's not letting anything stop her.”

Christina’s community service began early.

“I started the GIA Garden in ninth grade to just help with food deserts and build community,” Christina said. “Since it was our first year, I wanted to have something that people could come to help with.”

Principal Hall said, “She [conducted] workshops centered around sustainability and ensuring that people know how to grow their fresh food. I think that's spoken volumes. I'm very proud of her.”

Christina draws inspiration from a saying her grandfather used, ‘Good, better, best. Never let it rest, until your good is better, and your better is best.’

“My grandfather used to tell me that all the time,” Christina said. “He passed away in ninth grade. But whenever I think about that, I always think about him, and I always think to just keep moving forward.”

Christina plans to attend Georgia Tech in the fall and major in chemical engineering. Her dream is to create tasty allergen-friendly food for the masses.

“I figured out how to do it for myself,” Christina said. “I'm allergic to nuts, carrots, shellfish, and dairy. My cousins are allergic to wheat, and they can't have eggs. We have a very restrictive diet as a family. I want to break the stigma that foods that are free of all those different things have to taste bad. That's why I started my cookie business selling gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free cookies. And they seem to be a success. Most people that don't have allergies can't even tell.”

From gardening for sustainability to producing allergen-friendly foods, Christina is making a difference in her community.

Released Wednesday, May 8, 2024

“They are just a few who have been really influential in my life and stuck with me through literally the worst times,” McKay says.

Through therapy and with support from her family, Milton staff and her best friend, she was able to “push through.” She wants to share with others that high school is only a part of your life.

“You’re just in a small bubble,” she says.

McKay has a sister in London and a brother who lives in Buckhead. She is the youngest sibling at home with mom and dad.

“We’re all super close,” she says.

“Math is my top favorite subject,” says the senior. “I just love algebra, geometry, etc. Pre-calculus is pretty hard this year, but I love math.”

After graduation she wants to major in education in college. She hopes to provide the same level of support she received from MHS to future students who may need an emotional boost. She wants to “take them that extra mile.”

English teacher Rebecca Deweese, who had McKay as an AP Language student, spoke of her strong character in the face of a personal challenge that was compounded by social media. Her strength and resilience are why she believes Kylie deserved to be in the Senior Spotlight.

“She exhibited strength beyond what I’ve seen any student exhibit before,” says Deweese.

“Kylie is an amazing student,” said Counseling department chair Tiffany Harrison. “She’s taken a good mix of honors and AP courses throughout her career at Milton. She performed well in those, despite a rough semester or two dealing with the height of her difficulties. She was still able to pull out good grades, and I think that will make her a great candidate for some of those highly competitive colleges that she’s interested in.”

McKay says, “I’m just really happy to be where I am right now. I can tell myself it does get better and there is light at the end of the tunnel.”

Her advice to future Milton students is to “put yourself out there. Your world is not going to end if something bad happens. Life is so much bigger.”

Released Wednesday, May 8, 2024

She has a lot to focus on every day, in and out of school. Ana is fighting stage 5 renal failure and lupus.

“Sometimes I just want to go to sleep, or I just want to lay down,” she says. “I want to do so much but I can’t because my body just won’t allow me.”

Jonathan Altador is Ana’s school counselor at Riverwood.

“She has been homebound for almost two years, and she has been so resilient through the process,” he says.

When it became apparent her health condition would keep her from going to school in-person, Ana reached out to Altador. He says she was persistent in her goal to complete her work, which he found inspiring. Ana, he says, “showed me that no matter what you’re going through you can still push through if you’re willing.”

Ana’s social studies teacher, Jerome Dunson, is equally moved by her strength. He is amazed at Ana’s resiliency through her health battle.

“For her to be able to come out of this in the manner that she has been able to is inspirational,” says Dunson.

Her positive focus is also practical. Ana says her advice to other students starting their high school journey is, in her words, “do your work, just mind your business, and do your work.” She adds, “if you don’t, honestly, you’re going to get nowhere in life.”

Right now, Ana’s sights are set on where she is heading next. She will attend Perimeter College at Georgia State University where she plans to go into the field of animation.

Her teachers stand behind her all the way.

“You’re going to set yourself up for success no matter what,” says Dunson. “As long as you continue with that same attitude, that same mindset, you can achieve anything.”

“Just impact the world,” says Altador.

Ana intends to do exactly that, while staying focused on tomorrow. Every day – even amid her health challenges – she says, “I just think of the next day. Tomorrow is going to be a new day.”

Released Wednesday, May 8, 2024

Marie attributes her success to a great work ethic and good habits instilled by her parents. Watching her father recover from an accident and growing her rank in tennis helped her to keep moving forward.

Inspired by a quote her mother often says, Marie draws inspiration from the saying ‘change is the only constant.’

“I chose Marie as our Senior Spotlight not only for her story, but also for her tenacity and intelligence,” said Westlake Principal Jarvis Adams. “She has a spirit that surpasses anything that I’ve experienced in my years in education. She is a beacon of hope. In one of her advanced math classes I was speaking with the students, and she’s the one they aspire to be.”

Westlake teacher Kimberly Johny, former South Fulton Teacher of the year and sponsor for Westlake High’s National Honor Society, agrees.

“I’ve been at Westlake for 19 years and Marie is easily one of the most talented and diligent students I have come across at Westlake,” Johny said. “She prides herself in giving back to the community. She has coordinated numerous community cleanups. She is the National Honor Society president. She is just a well-rounded student.”

After graduation, Marie plans to attend Georgia Tech and major in mechanical engineering. She also plans to obtain a master’s degree in either neuroscience or biomedical engineering with the goal of creating medical technology or becoming a medical engineer who specializes in preventative care or preventative technology for neurological or neurodegenerative diseases.

“By the time I’m 40 or 45, I can retire because I plan on making or creating a patent,” Marie said. “It’s like way in the future, but I have a set path. Those are pretty big goals I have.”

Released Wednesday, May 8, 2024

So how do you push through such an enormous challenge?

“Get really involved in everything that you can,” says Leila.

She takes her own advice to heart. When she is not at soccer practice she is studying for her International Baccalaureate (IB) classes. While she is juggling that tough course load, she serves as a voice on the School Governance Council. She is also Alpharetta High School’s student body vice president.

Ask her teachers, and they will tell you she truly shines as president of the Unified Raiders. The club organizes fun activities with the goal of building bonds between Exceptional Children and general education students.

“More than anything, she is truly just that encourager,” says Kimberly Green, Leila’s IB Language and Literature teacher. “I love that so much about her. She has that effect on everybody.”

Leila calls her work with the Unified Raiders her proudest accomplishment. She says she finds purpose, “knowing that I’m giving back to a community that feels really isolated.”

Coach Nick Phillips works with Leila in the classroom and on the soccer field. He says she is “one of the most visible students on campus” – and she uses that position as a positive force.

“Leila brings energy,” Phillips says. “She brings leadership, compassion.”

All her teachers agree -- that energy will take her far. Leila will attend Williams College in Massachusetts in the fall where she will play soccer while working on a double major in Economics and Political Science.

She acknowledges her average day is “a lot of work.” But she knows all that work is worth it.

“I just love to be super-involved.”

Released Wednesday, May 1, 2024

Haja is in the top 20 of her graduating class. She is president of Banneker’s Student Government Association, a member of the school’s African-Caribbean Student Union and is part of the school’s Principal Advisory Council. Earlier this year, she was named the Georgia Restaurant Association’s ProStart Student of the Year.

Haja says her parents are her biggest inspiration. They moved from West Africa to start a new life in the United States, leaving comfort and familiarity behind. Haja says their “push and their courage” motivate her every day.

She has also drawn strength from personal hardship and reflects on her brother’s struggle with mental health issues. Haja says it became her goal to “bring some type of joy into my family’s life.”

Haja spreads joy wherever she goes. While she excels in academics, Banneker Principal Vincent Golden says something else stands out.

“She helps those students who are struggling sometimes as a peer mentor and peer tutor,” says Golden.

“The kids really, really love her and look up to her.”

Faith helps Haja through each day. She says she has always known, “I could rely on God. Knowing there is always someone there to talk to.”

Haja plans to pursue a science track in college, with a focus on Biology. She is proud of her accomplishment in the culinary world too. Being named ProStart Student of the Year paid tribute to her parents.

“I have a West African background, so food is a very prominent thing,” she says. “It is how people come together. It is something we bond over. That made me feel good knowing that my parents were proud.”

From cooking, to science, to school leadership – Haja says creating connections is the best way for all students to make the most of their time at Banneker.

"It's also good to have some sort of guide, whether it's one goal that you're working towards that might take you a few months or year, years to achieve, or just small little goals that you can achieve within each week or a month,” she says.

Released Wednesday, May 1, 2024

Centennial High social studies teacher Cameron Yarbrough agrees.

“Lucy embodies what it means to be a Centennial Knight,” said Yarbrough. “She’s strong in the classroom, she cares for others and wants to see them succeed and is just really an all-round stellar student.”

Lucy credits her mother as having the biggest impact on her life.

“She’s so passionate about what she does, working for a non-profit,” she said. “That’s really influenced me.”

When faced with challenges, Lucy has turned them into opportunities for others. She founded a local chapter of a national mental health organization.

“What I’m most proud of at high school is starting the club ‘Active Minds,’” Lucy said. “It’s my pride and joy. It’s my baby. We’ve accumulated more than 50 members. It was hard to start at first because it’s a very sensitive subject. We were even featured on 11Alive News for the work we did during Suicide Prevention Week, which was the best thing ever.”

“Lucy is one of the best as far as advocating for others,” said Centennial High counselor Hella Peart. “Lucy came to me a year ago about wanting to do a mural in the counseling office. We have what’s called a quiet room, which is where students go if they have high anxiety and just need a space to just sit down and relax. She gave me a couple of samples and did a really good mural that said, ‘You Are Loved.’”

“I taught Lucy for three years and I saw her grow up from 9th grade to 12th grade,” said Centennial High mathematics teacher Howayda Fayyad, who speaks highly of Lucy. “I love her laugh in the class. She’s amazing. And you can tell right away when she understands something—she turns around and shows everybody how to solve something or how to understand and explain it.”

After graduation Lucy plans to attend Georgia Tech and major in neuroscience.

“Wanting to major in neuroscience originally came from psychology and from my struggles with mental health and wanting to de-stigmatize mental health,” Lucy said. “I just learned that I love doing science and I wanted to tackle the brain side of it.”

Lucy advises incoming high school students to “find a balance in your life and find something that you can use as your outlet.” She added, “take a break from whatever you find stressful.”

Released Wednesday, May 1, 2024

“Lauren was chosen as the Creekside Senior Spotlight due to her academic and extracurricular endeavors,” he explains. “She has dedicated her time to having a rigorous course load and has excelled in those courses while simultaneously serving in extracurricular activities.”

Her passion for education and learning shows in the attention that she displays in her classes. “She's always willing to ask questions, think critically and challenge herself to be better,” Richmond says. “So even in moments where there might be things she does not understand, she will ask questions to clarify.”

All Jones has learned through her hard work has prepared her for what lies ahead for her in college and life.

“I most definitely have overcome many obstacles throughout my senior year,” she says,” including my workload, balancing my academic and extracurricular activities.”

Creekside Principal Dr. Terrell Awak calls Jones a natural-born leader for the work she’s done with students and teachers.

“She impacts the school’s culture by requesting and advocating for students with the staff and leadership team around things that she wants to see happen.” Dr. Awak says. “She lobbied me regarding 11th graders and came to my office with her data prepared to talk to me. Lauren noted why they deserved to have their 11th-grade picnic and that they have the best attendance in the school.”

Even Jones’ twin sister, Demi Jones, is in awe of her sister’s accomplishments.

“She's hard-working,” Jones says. “I see it every day at home. She pushes me every single day, and I know she pushes the teachers and students at the school to do better as well.”

After high school, Jones plans to attend a four-year college and major in a STEM degree or field.

“I plan to go to college with my twin sister, and we're debating between UGA or Georgia Tech,” Jones says. “But after college, we plan to open our own business and be our own bosses.”

Released Wednesday, May 1, 2024

“I was doing volleyball and cheerleading at the same time and they're in the same season,” she said. “So, I was jumping back and forth from practices and then going home to do homework, and then getting up the next morning to come early for JROTC meetings.”

North Springs High School Principal Scott Hanson credits Laylah’s involvement as an aspect that makes her stand out.

“She is involved in school, she's a multi-sport athlete, and she's somebody that is in the JROTC leadership program,” Hanson said. “She just makes her mark all over the place.”

Laylah also had a significant impact in the classroom.

“She's somebody that helps other kids in tutoring to be better students and ultimately to reach towards that goal of wanting to be in college and do great things in college,” Hanson adds.

AVID Site Coordinator Andrea Pritchett agrees: “Laylah's impact in the classroom has been one of leadership, just pushing her peers to be on top of their game.” After graduation Laylah plans to attend college and is considering a career in aviation or aeronautics with a double major in public relations.

“I've always been passionate about flying, loving to travel,” Laylah said. “When I learned about what pilots do and the process of becoming a pilot and the complexity, I was like, ‘This is exactly what I want to do.’”

Laylah advises incoming high school students to “make friends, talk to people, talk to your teachers, talk to your administrators, [and] talk to everybody. If you are a familiar face around school, so many doors open for you.”

“She is an amazing and remarkable young lady, and she's going to go on and do some great things in this world,” Hanson said. “We can't wait to see her do those things.”

Released Wednesday, May 1, 2024

Honors and AP Chemistry teacher Christi Chilton says, “Christian is an intellectual star who never ceases to amaze. I have learned so much from him and my classes have benefitted from his positive spirit and uplifting pep talks (especially before tests)! Christian exemplifies the ideals of intensity, intellectual curiosity, and enthusiasm. His passion and excitement for class and life are evident daily. He is constantly asking thought-provoking questions to deepen his understanding. He is truly invested in the success and emotional well-being of his peers and celebrates everyone’s achievements.”

“What has impressed me about Christian is his genuine interest in problem solving”, says Algebra II teacher Anna Mcllroy. “He always wants to know the ‘why’ behind a process, not just how to get the correct answer. This inquisitiveness will serve him well in college.”

Christian says, “Ms. Chilton and Ms. Mcllroy are very passionate about what they teach making learning an engaging experience.” He pays it forward by tutoring students in math through the Math Honor Society.

Christian’s extracurricular activities are impressive as well. The RHS cross-country team went to State in his senior year, and he placed second in the Boys 6A 5000-meter run.

Off the track and on, Roswell High School community coach Robert White said, Christian “really recognizes people and their worth. He goes out of his way to make friends. I think people respond to that.” According to Coach White, a strong sense of community is felt after an encounter with Christian.

“I was born in San Diego, California and moved to the Roswell area at the age of four”, says Christian who is proud of his Hispanic culture. He is headed to the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) in the fall.

Family has been a great influence on him. “My mother is one of my biggest inspirations for running and as a person.” Christian said, “She was All-American in college, ran professionally, and then coached for UGA.”

He and his father, an immigrant from Spain, enjoy sports like skiing and surfing. He works out a lot with his brother who is creative like his dad. His grandfather lives in Spain. Christian says he would like to pursue Spanish and become fluent. “I’m not going to let that language barrier stop me from connecting with my family.”

“Christian has exemplified excellence in his academics, and through leadership and service”, says Principal LaToya Miley. “His dedication to his studies and unwavering commitment to excellence sets a standard for us all. Christian's achievements have inspired us, and I look forward to his speech on graduation day because I know it will undoubtedly motivate us as we embark on our next chapter.”

Released Wednesday, May 1, 2024