🎓#8 Salutatorian- Grace Avery Kreps
Next Steps: Rogers State University
Field of Studies: Biology: Pre-Med
Zebra Since: 9th grade
What advice you would give your freshman self? Focus on controlling the things you can control and try not to sweat the small stuff.
What has this journey taught you about yourself? This journey has shown me that I can achieve the goals I set for myself.
🔴 What does this accomplishment mean to you? As a freshman, I decided I wanted to be Salutatorian or Valedictorian of my class. Accomplishing this goal means a lot to me and is something I am proud of.
Looking back on your school experience at CPS what does being a Zebra mean to you? Being a Zebra means being a part of a community bigger than myself and knowing that I have support from many teachers along the way.
What staff member impacted your life most and how in elementary school? Mrs. Wilkerson (Verdigris Elementary)- She made the first-grade fun and was a bright spot in my childhood! Definitely one of the sweetest people I have had as a teacher.
What staff member impacted your life most and how in junior high? Mr. McCaughan (Justus Tiawah)- As a shy, timid little nerd, Mr. McCaughan's class was always a place where I could relax and joke around. He helped to spur my love of science and helped me break out of my shell.
What staff member impacted your life most and how in high school? Coach Wiens (Claremore High School)- His constant motivation and encouragement pushed me to be the best I could be, not just in track but in life. He never gave up on me, even when I always made fun of his walk and raised his blood pressure. Coach Wiens has no idea what a great coach he is and how much I appreciate my years with him in track.
What is the ONE thing you absolutely take with you to college? Coffee and my 90's records
What activities you have been involved in? AP / Pre-AP Programs, Track, Christian Club, FCA, National Honor Society, Yearbook, and Young Democrats.
What was the hardest part (challenges) you had to overcome to achieve this honor? The hardest challenge was staying focused on my grades through several physical injuries and anxiety.
What are you most proud of in your high school career? I am most proud that even through many distractions and obstacles, I was able to keep my grades up, run track, and become Salutatorian.
Awards / Honors / Scholarships
Scholarships: Honors Program at RSU, Full Scholarship
Awards: Oklahoma High School Honor Society Member since Freshman year and several Z awards
Other Acknowledgements: Thank you to everyone who has supported me through this journey. Though I had to choose just one, I'd also like to thank Mr. Cummings, Mrs. Lahr + Ms. Warden (because they're a package deal), and Mr. Riggs. CHS has the best staff you could ask for!
#CPSZEBRAPRIDE #Classof2023