By Shannon Hirska Contributing writer An unprecedented total of five students earned the title of valedictorian at Eatonville High School for the class of 2013. Josh Bennett, Zach Fairhart, Ryan Moeller, Caleb Schmidt and Kennedy Tobin all maintained a perfect 4.0 grade point average throughout their high school careers. The five (most years there are only a couple valedictorians, but there have been as many as four in recent years) were motivated to achieve academic success by thoughts of college and merit scholarships, a desire to have the best opportunities, and a spirit of competition. For instance, Bennett has always had a desire to go to Gonzaga University, so that was a powerful force behind his drive to succeed. In addition to scholastic success, the boys were active in sports, student government and the community through a wide range of interests, including drama, basketball, music, tennis, snowboarding and Young Life. "Hanging out with friends" was also high on their lists of leisure activities. Outstanding accomplishments were the norm among these students. Bennett excelled in basketball and was named Tacoma Athletic Commission's Athlete of the year for 2011. Moeller earned eight varsity athletics letters, in addition to serving as studentn body vice president. Schmidt lettered in three sports, including all four years in soccer. Tobin lettered multiple years in tennis, soccer and band. And Fairhart earned the title of Nisqually League Most Valuable Player for football in 2012 and was also a member of the state Knowledge Bowl team. All have bright futures planned. Bennett will work toward a degree in business and sports management while realizing his dream of attending Gonzaga. Fairhart will play football at Whitworth University and major in physics. Moeller will be at George Fox University in Newberg, Ore. to major in biology and minor in Christian youth ministry. He hopes to eventually become a pediatric doctor. Schmidt will study physics at Seattle University. Tobin will attend the University of Washington to study biology. The young men shared credit for their achievement with teachers who have inspired them during the past four years. Fairhart and Schmidt recognized Bob Fincham and April Forsyth for fostering their interest in science and math and preparing them for rigorous college course work. Jim Clague was also mentioned for his challenging curriculum. Chris Hunke and Shannon Steedman were noted for helping keep attitudes positive and making class fun. All the valedictorians have formed lasting memories of high school. Fairhart will cherish the Cruisers' defeat of Cascade Christian in football in his senior year. Moeller will remember performing the lead role in the student production of "Footloose" and taking second place in the state Knowledge Bowl. Basketball holds the fondest memories for Bennett and Schmidt, and Tobin will really miss the calculus parties. When asked to share some parting advice, Tobin wanted underclassmen to know that all of their hard work and dedication will pay off. Moeller encouraged school involvement, noting, "It's better to have done something you come to regret than to live with the regret of never trying." The common consensus was for students to enjoy their time in high school; because it goes too quickly.
Shannon Hirska is a secretary for Eatonville High School.
TOP LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL GRADAUTES OF 2013
Eatonville High School Josh Bennett, Zach Fairhart, Ryan Moeller, Caleb Schmidt and Kennedy Tobin, valedictorians Morgan Mann, salutatorian
Graham-Kapowsin High School Top 10 graduates Danielle Aldrich, valedictorian Amy Bernstein, valedictorian Kristin Berry, valedictorian Cody Lynn, valedictorian Taylor Salzberg, valedictorian Rachel Smith, salutatorian Laura Au Joe Merriman Kimberly Braxton Joseph Shields -รก Bethel High School Top 10 graduates Emily Martin, valedictorian Antoinette Graham, salutatorian Kathleen Penaranda Olivia Clarke Elise Phillips Mason Struna Deanna Walton David McHale Valerie Ettenhofer Zachary Epperson
Comments
Use the comment form below to begin a discussion about this content.
Sign in to comment