Hebron High School Senior Voices
With school buildings and facilities forced to close due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, we asked some seniors to share their thoughts and opinions on their senior year.
Shruti Ada
NAHS (officer), NHS, SNHS, Latin Club
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
I enjoy being a part of a group that shares the same interests in me and that I can get along with because in high school, it's hard to find people that vibe with you. I enjoyed every single part of meetings, volunteering, and helping out because it's with the people I liked.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I hope they've grown to be the people they've always wanted to be, unapologetically themselves because what more can you ask for?
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
There are way too many to choose from honestly! I loved homecoming decorating because it was fun to be in charge of the senior windows but I also loved every second of being in the art room. I would say making the pins and selling them. NAHS has been pretty cool as well as the "gingerbread" making competition, but any moment with my friends were the best moments.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
I've seen others raise awareness to make sure to social distance and quarantine for the sake of others. It's also nice to see teachers reaching out to their kids and checking up on them to make sure they're okay.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Mrs. Russell has impacted me in more ways than I can think of. As soon as I stepped into her classroom as a clueless sophomore, I was welcomed by her fun personality and her humor and she's grown to be one of my favorite people ever. She taught me how to break out of my creative shell and she understands my love for reality TV (ex: The Bachelor franchise). She's the one who brought me into a community of people who are now one of my closest friends.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope that people realize that senior year happens faster than you would think. Spend time with your friends as much as you can because you never know what's going to happen to prevent that from happening. It's amazing because this is the year that will probably be documented and kids will learn about in the future. I also wanted to mention how well Class of 2020 has handled this with our dark and dry humor because what else would we do.
Emilia Grace Ahn
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
Always having a friend and getting really close with the other girls in cheer.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
Hopefully it makes everyone not take the little things for granted.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
At the last football game when everyone sung the alma mater for the last time.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
My friends and I trying to make my one friend’s birthday special during the pandemic by doing a mini social distanced party.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Coach Hill was always there for me as a friend and as a mentor through high school.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
The class who was born during 9/11 and graduated during a worldwide pandemic.
Aisha Aslam
Make-A-Wish (President), Latin Club/JCL (Consul), DECA, Science National Honor Society, National Honor Society, Student Council, Key Club
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
I really enjoyed meeting people that I wouldn’t have otherwise crossed paths with. Being united by a common service goal or academic field allowed us to form a community outside the classroom.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I hope my classmates and I will learn to appreciate all the little moments. We may not have prom, a full graduation, or our senior trip, but we had friends along the way that made us look forward to those events. The little moments are just as important as the big moments, and I hope we’ll take that lesson into our future.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
I will always remember my friends and I huddled on the floor during Block Lunch. We may not always have been talking, doing homework or college applications instead, but that togetherness fostered a bond that I’m eternally grateful for.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
I love how the school staff rose to the occasion, smoothly transitioning to online learning and eagerly providing free meals. The Hebron community was incredibly sweet, setting up an ‘Adopt a Hebron Senior’ group to cheer seniors up during our unusual semester. I am proud to know several students who are making masks and donating. However, I am infinitely grateful for everyone who chose to stay home to mitigate the spread.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
My most influential teacher in high school was Ms. Boyd. Having been in her Pre-AP Chemistry class sophomore year and her AP Chemistry class junior year, she made me interested in and eager to learn about a subject I previously had no interest in. Although chemistry isn’t part of my career path, she was incredibly influential, reminding us to enjoy high school and make memories outside of the classroom.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope we’ll be remembered for rising to the occasion. Although we didn’t have many of our final high school memories, we are more than equipped to leave the high school bubble and make the world a better place.
Amogh Bhatnagar
Tennis, TSA, HOSA, DECA, SNHS, NHS
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
I’ve always worked better within small groups rather than large groups or working alone. Whether it be English literature circles, group drills at tennis practice, or competitive events in clubs, the intimacy that is gained from reducing the size of a group is a closeness that I was always fond of. The bonds I've created with my schoolmates for the past 4 years are irreplaceable.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I hope this pandemic teaches not just the Class of 2020, but especially future Hebron students to never take anything for granted. You only get to spend 4 years at high school, so appreciate the time you have with those you care about.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
This year, the tennis team had their best season in all of Hebron history, going to the regional quarterfinals in playoffs and ending the year with a record of 17-2. My proudest moment was speaking at our last pep rally, getting the crowd to acknowledge and cheer for the team’s accomplishment.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Ryan Woodward, AP Calculus AB/BC teacher. One of the few teachers I've had that created an environment that I was always excited to come to for class.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope history remembers the hard work Hebron staff has put into helping the Class of 2020 through this tough end to our high school experience; they have done a fantastic job with keeping us informed and safe as they guide us towards graduation.
Noah Scott Boyd
Teen Republicans, Student Council, National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
The communities and the bonds that they create. I enjoyed the activities that we did and the events that we experienced.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I hope everyone will learn how to connect with one another, even through the dangers of a pandemic.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory is being able to create the Teen Republicans club. It was an interesting process in which I was able to meet a lot of amazing people.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
Honestly, I feel like nothing has changed except that we are learning on our technology from home.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
My Teen Republicans sponsor, physics teacher, and advisory teacher. He was very supportive throughout the entirety of my junior and senior years.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope people remember 2020 as a meme year, where everything went bad all at once.
Kaitlyn Curtin
Cheer
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
I enjoyed the friends I made throughout my four years. These girls were my rock when I felt like I had no one, through the hard times and the good times. They will forever be my best friends.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I hope that no one takes anything for granted. You never know what you have until it's gone. When you can't hug your best friend or your favorite teacher goodbye. When you don't get your senior skip day or your lame prank. Cherish the little memories.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
I will always remember my friends, I will remember the weekends we spent by the pool, driving around in the car with the windows down listening to our favorite songs.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
I've noticed seniors have been making other seniors, signs with their school and name on them
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Mrs. Bryson, she was my favorite teacher, when I first met Ms. Bryson I had no idea what kind of impact she would have. She didn't have a huge emotional impact on me, but she is the first teacher to show me that teachers really can be your friends. They can make class fun. Every day I expected to go into food science and just laugh unconditionally.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
We are strong, and we deserved better.
Anna Claire Dean
Silver Wings (Senior Sergeant)
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
The thing I enjoyed most about Silver Wings, was the group of girls in it! I met my best friends while being on the team and I don't know what I would do without them!
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I hope that everyone, myself included, learns to never take anything for granted because you never know when it can all be taken away from you. I hope everyone has taken this time to sit back and appreciate everything they have, and that we all come out of this better than before!
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory from senior year is performing at the first pep rally with Silver Wings. Everyone was cheering and there was such a good vibe and energy. I would do it all over again if I could!
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
Everyone has been reaching out to one another and checking in, which didn't normally happen before. I loved the cap and gown pick up! All the teachers and staff were so nice in cheering us on! It was so sweet and special!
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
I would have to say that Mrs. Bowling and Mrs. Hobbs have impacted me the most, especially because they have been with me through all 4 years of high school. You can go to them for anything and they always have my back. I could not have gone through high school with such ease if it wasn't for them! I hope history remembers us as a strong class, because this whole situation has been hard.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope other people realize how hard and devastating it actually is. It's so sad knowing that what's supposed to be the best 3 months of all the years of schooling, is taken away from you. But I think we will only come out of this stronger and more appreciative.
Kayla Elizabeth DeLay
Cheerleading, Cross Country, Track, NHS, SNHS, and Student Council
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
In all of my school activities I had the opportunity to make new friends. I will always cherish the laughs and memories made over the past four years.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
We all learned to never take anything for granted. Coming into senior year we knew we would have a senior prom, graduation, skip day, senior prank, six flags day, graduation parties, and many other senior events. But we never realized that it could all be taken away. With that being said, I hope classes behind us will never take their senior year for granted.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory was being crowned the Hebron High School Homecoming queen. Not only was that a huge honor but I got to celebrate with all of the cheer friends. When I was announced they all ran onto the field and I know that is a moment I will never forget.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
I know Lewisville ISD is doing all that they can for us seniors. I am thankful that you guys tried your best to keep the school year rolling. It is a lot of work because there are so many unknowns.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
My cheer coach, Coach Jackson, has always been such a huge role model for the cheer team. She has been with my class since we were freshmen and it is great to see how much we have grown together!!
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
Well hopefully we will be in the history books!! This year has definitely been hard for all of us. Having to push aside something we have been looking forward to since Kindergarten is difficult, but many others are struggling and I would rather my senior year be taken rather than the lives of thousands.
Maycie Dibler
Student Council, Cheerleading, Track
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
I enjoy getting the chance to make more friends and learn more about all the people involved, while we all work together to conquer a goal we share. It’s a privilege to get to be a part of anything really, because it isn’t for everyone, so I say make the most out of what you are given and the outcome is almost always greater than what you put in.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
Our senior year ending was a complete let down, to say the least. We have no control over any of this though and the thought of every senior in the world going through this as well, puts at least some of our minds to ease that we are all going through it together. I think we have all learned to never take even the simplest things for granted, and we will all come out on top of this stronger and ready to thrive in college.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory from senior year was definitely getting the opportunity to be a part of Clinical Rotations at Dale Jackson. My whole life I have wanted to be involved in the medical field and I worked my way to get into Clinical Rotations, and it was a privilege to be a part of that class. Even though my time was cut short and I only got to go to the hospitals for 3/10 weeks, I took out knowing more about what I wanted to do with my future than anything I had been taught before. The fact that I got to see so many different types of surgeries and see how different nurses operate in different roles of the hospitals gave me a clear understanding that I belonged and wanted to be an ER nurse in my future.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
Our staff is continuing to teach us the education we need and figuring out ways to have classes held online, which is good to see because most schools worldwide have overall canceled class for the remainder of the year. Most students are doing their part and staying home which is appreciated because the sooner everyone does their part, the sooner the world can resume.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope that all classes below us learn from all that my class lost out on and realize to never take even the smallest things for granted. We are never going to get a senior prom, graduation, powder puff, finish our sports season, say goodbye to our teachers of 4 years, finish our favorite classes, and these are the things that you dream of for 12 years. My hope is that if we are able to go to college in the fall, that our college can maybe make up a prom for us, or just find any way to recognize the c/o 2020 seniors, as we are crushed.
Lauren Paige Edwards
Girls Basketball, NHS, SNHS
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I hope that everyone realizes that literally anything can be taken away from you in an instant. Nobody is guaranteed anything in this world, and with this virus, all the cancellations, and abrupt end to our high school journey, makes this very clear. Just be grateful for all the things we did get to do.
Avery Evans
Varsity Cheer Captain, Student Council, NHS, Science NHS, Circle of Friends, Ruckus and Rowdy
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
Cheer has been the biggest part of my high school career. The bonds I’ve made and friendships that have come from this program are some I will cherish forever. It truly is a family and makes such a big school feel so small.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
While we definitely expected to get to do all of the senior traditions every class before us did, I think not having that opportunity shows us what a blessing it really is. This experience has shown us that plans change, and you just have to move along and change with them.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
Right before our senior pep rally, all of the underclassmen were giving the seniors in their families gifts. It’s been a tradition in my family since I was a freshman to give the senior a necklace, and when my little sister brought me mine with tears in her eyes, I knew I had truly made an impact on someone in the school and it made everything feel worthwhile.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Coach Hill has had the most impact on me. He was always there when me or any of my friends needed someone to talk to about what was going on in our lives, bad or good, and gave us a safe place to go when we needed a break from everything during the day. Knowing I might never get to say goodbye to him might be the worst part about all of this.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope everyone remembers how hard this was on us and understands why they shouldn’t take these last semester activities for granted. I hope they cherish all of their lasts a little more than we did, and understand how much the people around them truly mean to them.
Eric Feng
Key Club, Band
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
Last marching competition at BOA Grand Nationals
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
Bands of America Grand Nationals
Anna Elizabeth Furnival
Academic Decathlon
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
The closeness of all of the team members and the coaches, they are like family to me.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
Truthfully, nobody was fully prepared for this pandemic. But I hope that everyone has learned to appreciate everything in their life a little bit more.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
Regionals and State for AcDec. I will always remember being a part of an amazing (and record breaking) team
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Mrs. Friend was and is a constant source of good energy. She never failed to keep us updated and was always there for support.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope history remembers how everyone came to be a little nicer, productive, and appreciative of everything we have in life.
Braden Galvan
Circle of Friends: President, Younglife: Worship Leader, Hands of Hope: Member, FCA: Member, iamsecond: Member, Earth Club: Member, Kindness Ambassador
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
I'm mainly involved with Circle of Friends (COF) out of the hotchpotch of clubs and organizations I am in. For me, it is impossible to pinpoint what my favorite part about this club is. While I do find joy every day, I also find a renewal of strength from the kids in this club. This club was never designed to inform students about the care for kids with special needs. It was created for the sole purpose of community and a loving bondage. Learning and kindling this ideology, is one of my many favorite parts about this club.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
Patience, adaptativity, and perseverance are just a few of many words I would give to how the class of 2020 has grown through this time. While many of us are questioning this uncertain time, I think conscious and subconsciously, we are cultivating for what may come in the world. With an ever-changing society, this pandemic is the perfect segue for adapting this fickle world. Patience has come to the vagueness of end of this time. Adaptivity, from the transition of senior year to online school and college. Perseverance, from keeping going with many memories and making do with what we have, in terms of social distancing, school, and work.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory this year would be when our pre-cal class had a surprise baby shower for our teacher, Mrs. Snipes. About a third into the semester, she told our class that she was pregnant. We were all so excited for her and because of how patient and hard-working she is, we decided to surprise her with a surprise baby shower. With the whole class pitching in, we had donuts, chips, and kolaches set up for her. She was totally grateful for us and we had a great time as a class.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
Our Circle of Friends still honors those who have served an officer position this year, with the help of Mrs. Cummings! Our Hebron Younglife has weekly Zoom meetings to keep up with each other and make sure we are still grounded, thanks to the help of our student leaders and Blaine Townsend. My friend Ethan has still been able to sell clothes on his website. My friends; Josh, Olivia, Corin, and Lexi have been meeting up to watch the sunsets, social distantly of course.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
The dictionary defines “idol” as “a person or thing that is greatly admired, loved, or revered.” I define it as Mrs. Cummings, as a teacher, as a mentor, as a woman, and as a leader. She is one of the only people that I’ve known the longest coming into the Lewisville school district. She demonstrates the love and patience of a mother not only to me but to the whole Circle of Friends community. Steadfast, gentle, and loving are some of the many words I would use to describe her. Continuing to show love to me and the Circle of Friends community, Mrs. Cummings has made a long-lasting impact on me.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope people remember the Class of 2020 as a class that adjusts, a class that has no boundaries. We were born after 9/11. We started middle school during the Boston Marathon Bombing. We started elementary school during the crash of the stock market. We are now graduating during a global pandemic. Yet, we were born in an age of technology, multimedia job opportunities, and social media movements. The Class of 2020 should be remembered as the class of a new hope, a bright future, and a tenacious group of motivated students.
Katherine Alexander Haas
Band (Section Leader, Librarian), Hawk Eye Newspaper (Managing Editor)
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
I love that both band and newspaper are a family and offer me the opportunity to pursue two of my passions: music and writing.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I think we’re all learning how to be held accountable for doing work while facing the distractions of being at home. This is a skill that wouldn’t be fostered as much without the quarantine, and it’s something important to carry with us to college.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory from my senior year is competing at the BOA Grand Nationals competition with the band: I will always remember being able to hug my brother right after our finals performance and winning 3rd place and the best music caption.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
I am so proud of the Hawk Eye newspaper staff for continuing to produce solid content independently. They are still working hard to share stories with and provide information to our readers, even in these crazy circumstances.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
I will be forever grateful to Mr. Jones, my journalism teacher and newspaper advisor, for recognizing my writing potential and encouraging me to do something new. He always makes his staff smile and laugh, no matter what, and helps us all be better writers while still being a cool person.
Allan Jacob
Key Club (President), DECA (Secretary), TSA, SNHS, NHS, Tennis
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
The sense of belonging that I get when I'm a competitor or a leader within a club or a team is one that I enjoy with my full heart. The people I've met from our school and others that share the same passions as me was very fun. The fact that for some events I was able to skip school to better my interests in various niches was something I enjoyed very much.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
The COVID-19 pandemic definitely turned what was supposed to be the highlight of high school into a boring and isolated time. Things such as graduation, prom, our senior trip, and our last "official" day of high school are getting cancelled one after another. While it was a conclusion none of us were expecting, it definitely taught me to value the little things in life and not take any moment for granted.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory from senior year would be when me and the boys would drive down to downtown and get some Mike's Chicken. We would vibe in the car, have fun, play some basketball, take pictures, and enjoy some really great chicken tenders. The experiences and memories I've made are one's I'll never forget: Mike's Chicken runs, Korean Barbecue, DECA competitions, TSA competitions, tennis tournaments. High School really was a blast!
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
My friends and I have been trying to keep each other's hopes up high. Though this wasn't the ending anyone wanted for our senior year, we try to keep our spirits up and enjoy what we have.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Throughout high school I've had 3 teachers impact me the most. Mrs. Hunt was a great teacher with a great amount of personality. She taught me to persevere through trials and grow from mistakes. Her AP Chemistry class was one of my favorite classes throughout my high school career (despite the all nighters I had to pull for lab write ups). Next we have Mrs. Rooks, my AP Lang. teacher. There's so much that she has done, not just for me but all of her students. She puts her heart and soul into teaching her students, giving them amazing preparation not just for the AP test but also for the SAT and ACT. She taught me how to write a successful essay and her teachings will forever be ingrained in me. Finally Mr. Woodward, not just my AP Calculus teacher but a close friend as well. I learned that despite the harsh reality of my subpar skills in calculus, that I could come to him with anything and he'd be there to listen. Our great games of Super Smash Bros, talking about random things, and giving the best advice will be something I always cherish.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope history remembers the Class of 2020 as a class that perseveres. Many of us were born amongst the times of a devastating attack (9/11) and we are finally being sent off with a global pandemic. However, despite the tough situations our lives were presented with, we continue forward, tackling the future one moment at a time.
Kely Nicole Juan
Academic Decathlon
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
I feel like we are an actual family, albeit, one that is really chaotic
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I hope everyone has the opportunity to find out what they want for themselves in the future, now that it seems time has slowed down, and that we need to prepare ourselves for challenges ahead.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
Going to the Texas Decathlon Banquet and seeing the smile on my teammates faces as their names were on display. Followed by the deafening applause coming from us.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
I can’t choose only one, that would be sinful. I have had the pleasure to call: Mrs. Friend, Mr. Zuber and Mrs. Rooks my teachers. They have taught me more than just the material for my classes, they allowed me to grow while under their care. I will always remember them. I will always be thankful to them. Thank you so much.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
The class that just had to go out with a bang. The class that never falters under adversity
Ashley Nicole Kendrick
Student Council (Secretary)
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
It allows me to be a part of something bigger, I get to help not only my schools but the whole district.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I hope we all keep our heads up, and make sure to not let this negatively impact our dreams.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory from high school has got to be the 3rd nine weeks in the StuCo class, I love them and the environment. I'll always remember how hardworking people are, and that dreams are possible. High schoolers are busy peeps, I’ll never forget it.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
Posting on social media, doing curbside pick up, encouraging others to stay home.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Mr. Bogus, he is truly the definition of an amazing teacher. He pushes education in a way that not many teachers do, he has purpose to a lot of his work and you can actually see it, without feeling like all you’re doing is busy work. I’m still close to him, which shows that he cares about all of his students, even his past ones.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I want all other years to know how lucky they really are to get to go to prom, have senior send off, powder puff, spring shows, senior field trip and many other perks we didn’t get to have. They need to keep things like this in mind and be active in school activities.
Ashley Taeeun Kim
Key Club, NHS, NAHS (Vice President)
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
I love the energy the community brings, and the fact that we’re working together to help others makes me happy.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I learned to not wait for the right moment because it may never come. I learned that life’s unpredictable, so I should just live every day like my last.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
I will always remember the lifelong friends that I’ve made and the most free time I’ve ever gotten throughout my education.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
I enjoy seeing the community helping out with the pandemic by making masks and donating to hospitals. I praise my classmates who’ve been obedient to the self-quarantine.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Definitely my art teachers from freshman year to now. They helped me figure out future career goals and were the highlights of my high school career.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope history feels bad for us and makes up for it in the future because we got to miss every senior perk we’ve been looking forward to all throughout high school.
Bruce Mang
Science NHS, Spanish NHS, Key club
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
This final semester of high school is always special. Clearly, this has not changed, though certainly not for the better. The world was not expecting to face a pandemic in such a short notice. After these tough times pass, I hope that my classmates and I will have more developed abilities to analyze and cope with issues in life through compensation and change. I hope that this experience will prepare us by demonstrating that even the most extreme circumstances can happen at any time without warning and that we should be prepared to deal with these situations accordingly. During this situation, it is also easy to lose track of our future goals. As seniors, we are about to step into society as contributing members and adults. With this experience behind us, I also hope that we will emerge as more mature and strong people.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory from senior year is the end of my marching season in band. A four day trip to Indianapolis that summed up the end of a four year journey, hundreds of hours of rehearsal with a tight-knit group, and three performances in the massive Lucas Oil Stadium. Although I got hit with a terrible fever, I still cherish the memory. I will always remember the difference between myself when I first entered high school and the person I am right now. We all grew and changed enormously, and for me that change was very special.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
Lots of activity on social media has risen during this pandemic. I have seen my friends help spread awareness for the situation through donations and posts. There have been donations of materials and equipment specifically to hospitals. I have seen teachers drive around neighborhoods with encouraging signs taped to their windows, and overall support is very strong.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Out of the many wonderful teachers I have had, Mrs. Hunt has impacted me the most in high school. Being a year-long class, AP Chemistry was a very exciting course. The challenge was very enjoyable and being able to do labs while learning was a great cooperative experience. It was her class that cemented my decision to continue chemistry into college. Mrs. Hunt was a very hardworking, humorous, and honest teacher. She pushed us and had high expectations, but most definitely worked harder than all of us. I admire her never-ending passion and her ability to teach and prepare us so well. I am incredibly thankful for the opportunities and memories her teaching left me with.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope that history remembers the Class of 2020 as an active and strong community that fought for the recovery of our society during these tough times. I hope they remember that although this was supposed to be our celebration, we used it as a learning opportunity to become stronger, wiser, more mature contributing members of society.
Abigail Mascorro
National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
The thing I enjoyed most about those clubs was getting to volunteer with my friends and knowing that we were accomplishing something together. I enjoyed this most because it went along with my beliefs to always give back to the community. I'm thankful for those opportunities.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I hope that we will all understand that hardships extend beyond just what affects us. The thing I have learned throughout this experience is that while it may feel like I'm missing and losing a lot, I'm thankful for what I have.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memories really just include any time I spent with my close friends, bus rides to football games, and goofing off with my friends in band.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic? I really think as a senior class we've really grown to be kinder to one another, and we're grateful for each other and for the years we've had so far.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Definitely my band directors, all four years they've taught us all through the band program what it's like to have pure dedication and how to work hard for your goals. I also really appreciate my 10th grade English teacher, Ms. Mayo, and my AP Statistics teacher, Mr. Casalini, for making class fun and for caring about your students.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I really hope they don't remember us for our "virtual Prom", but for our good spirits and optimism despite having an unconventional senior year
Mariah McCardell
Silver Wings (Captain), Black Student Union (Secretary), National Honor Society, Student Council, Young Life
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
It's a built-in group of friends. Everyone there is gathered because we have a similar passion or interest, therefore we already have something in common.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
We came into high school expecting to have a graduation, prom etc. We became slightly entitled and began to take all that we had for granted. We constantly begged for more or for something to be improved upon or for something to better accommodate our needs. What we didn't realize until now is how good we have it and that everything isn't promised. It's unfortunate that it had to happen this way, but my mom always says that life is the best teacher, and taught us it has.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
Traveling to Disney World with my drill team. I love Disney World as is and being there with my best friends made it all the more enjoyable. I will always remember the teachers who motivated me to rise above my self-imposed limitations.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
We've been more intentional about making the effort to check up on each other because we no longer have the luxury of seeing each other every day at school. I've seen people deliver small presents or treats to their friends just so they know that they're thinking of them.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
My 10th grade Pre-AP English teacher Jason Snipes, who unfortunately is no longer a part of LISD. Being black in a predominantly white area doesn't bode well for an impressionable freshman trying to shape her identity. I frequently found myself wishing that my hair straightened instead of curled or wishing that I could see myself represented by more than one Disney princess. It was until entering his class that I learned to love myself for my blackness and began to take an interest in black history which I will be minoring in, in college.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
Hopefully they will remember us for the way we rose above the hardship and rather than choosing dwelling upon the negativity. While there is no correct way or amount of time to grieve over the loss of something I think it is important that we realize how fortunate we are that most of us are healthy and could be in much worse positions if it wasn't for the quarantine. I hope that we're remembered for being resilient and for persevering through an upsetting circumstance.
Ross McKee
Cross Country and Track (Team Captain)
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
I have always enjoyed the group of people that this sport attracts and being able to run with them every day in practice and going to races together has built a bond where I consider them to be my second family.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I hope that we learn to not take things for granted. Through this experience I have missed not being able to see my teammates and friends every day and I hope in the future we will realize that even things like going to school can be taken away and to be grateful for the little things life has to offer.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory from my senior year was my district meet. I had made a goal for myself to place within the top ten to make sure I would be able to move on to regionals. Before the race I was extremely nervous and hoped that I would be able to have the race that I wanted. I ended up placing ninth and I remember how gratifying it was to know that all the hard work I had put into the sport was paying off for me. I will always remember the amazing friendships and teachers that made my four years of high school truly amazing.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
During this pandemic I was thankful for the things I have because not everyone is as lucky. So my street and the street next to us got together and each house made 50 sandwiches for one of our local homeless shelters so they can still be able to get a meal in these tough times.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
My coach has definitely impacted me the most throughout my four years of high school. He has always been someone who has believed in me and not just with my running but also me as a person. He has taken the time to teach me many things that I know a lot of other coaches would think twice about. He also is always willing to have a conversation with whether it be about a race coming up or about maybe something that I just wanted to talk to someone about. I will always remember everything he’s done for me even when I move on to college and my future.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope people remember our class as a group of people who were given a unique circumstance but were able to work through it and still finish on a good note.
Daxia Melton
Girls Basketball
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
The people on my team makes every day a better day.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
Pretty sure we won't take anything for granted ever again.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
The football games.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
Posting inspirational quotes on social media.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Coach Branch
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
The best class.
Krishna Nair
Hawk Theatre Company President
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
That the Hawk Theatre department is one big family.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
To never take things for granted. Respect the time and effort you put into things.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory has to be playing Prince Eric in the Little Mermaid!
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
The Hawk Theatre department and other LISD theatre departments faced off in a Lip Sync battle!
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Ryan Heitzman and Ramina Mirmortazavi
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
That I left a legacy for many young artists to follow!
Stacy Nguyen
Student Council (Officer)
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
Being with my friends.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
We have become more understanding and independent.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
Meeting new friends.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
We have come together to support one another.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Mr. Ratliff
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
Class of COVID-19.
Fernanda Galvez Orozco
Circle of Friends (Secretary), German Club (Vice-President), Dawn Xploration Rocketry Team (Team Captain), Computer Science Club, National Honor Society, Cybersecurity Club, Demo Team, Science National Honor Society, National German Honor Society, Academic Decathlon
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
Circle of Friends is a club in which students and their special needs peers are allowed to interact in an environment that accepts and cherishes, forming everlasting friendships that have shaped my life. I have been able to meet the kindest people I know and to grow up with them for the last four years. The wonderful lunches we got to enjoy. The special field trips we embarked on. The lighthearted Waltzes with Yair as we danced to his favorite forties jazz singers. Our iconic make-shift prom: the Grand Ball. Where we ask each other to be our dates for the dance and bring our entire community together to celebrate an exhilarating year of incredible accomplishments. Circle of Friends has allowed me to form beautiful memories that will remain forever cherished in my heart. I feel so fortunate to have become part of this wonderful family!
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
Our current situation has been completely unprecedented and has impacted every aspect of our lives. Yet, the magnitude of this experience has the force to make our class, school, and district grow in character to become appreciative of our surroundings, even of things we held for granted before. We have learned to appreciate the ability to attend school, to be around friends and family, and most importantly to be healthy. We are so fortunate to be living in such an incredible district that puts our well-being and safety before everything and that has the resources to keep classrooms operating. I just hope we continue to grow as a community and appreciate everything we have!
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
Where do I even begin to answer this question? Every moment since the 1st week of August in 2019 has been such an incredible ride in the senior crazy train! Senior Orientation, LISD Kindness Convocation, Senior Pictures, Homecoming Week, the HOCO Parade with Circle of Friends, Computer Science Competitions, Circle of Friends field trips, NHS volunteering events, my team’s rocket launches, Demo Team shows, the long list of college applications, the endless piles of scholarship essays, and the list goes on... Yet, the experience that I think defines my senior year is the formation of Dawn Xploration. My Practicum in STEM class at the Career Center allowed us to form an all-girl rocketry team and compete in national competitions as we learned about rocketry and engineering. It was such an incredible experience and an opportunity that I learned so much from! I will never forget that Hawk Pride Never Dies!!
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Ever since I met Mr. Stites my 1st day of freshman year, he has pushed me nonstop to be the best me I can possibly be and to pursue my dreams, no matter how far-fetched they can be. He shows up to school every day with his head up and enthusiastic about inspiring his students. Mr. Stites has been my teacher, mentor, motivator, and friend throughout the past four years! His love and passion for his job is seen all the time, in the way he acts with his students during class, competitions, tutorials, and clubs. Through his teachings I was able to learn so much more than I thought I would; most importantly problem solving skills because they are necessary for computer science and every aspect of life. He has helped me grow as a person in so many ways and he dedicates so much to us that I am forever grateful!
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I want history to remember the “iconic” Class of 2020 by what we are: a strong body of students that has persevered through unprecedented times and has triumphantly reached the finish line that graduating marks. All of our activities, competitions, and events that were meant to reflect all of our hard work throughout the year and high school were stripped from us in an instant. My team’s two national rocketry competitions were canceled, and all of that anticipation and dedication was thrown away, as probably every senior’s plans were. Yet, we are a class that will never be forgotten, not because of one person’s success or loss, but because of how we have united through our distance and hardships, coming out on top stronger than ever, ready to face the world.
Nevaeh Pantoja
Cross Country and Track, Young Life
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
I enjoy waking up every morning and being around people that have the same goals as I do, it’s very motivational working out with the same group of people every day to get better together.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I hope we have grown and bettered ourselves individually, spiritually and emotionally. We are able to manage our time and also being able to be strong while it is upsetting about our last semester.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory from my senior year was getting ready after our runs and listening to music in the locker room with the rest of my teammates. I will always remember how fast it went by and to always cherish the beautiful moments we have together.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
I’ve seen my community shut down our neighborhood park, basketball facility and swimming pool to stop people from being around others.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Coach Capeau has always impacted me. He’s always supported me when I was at my worst to when I was at my best. Teaching me how to be a better person rather than being just an “athlete”.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope history remembers that the Class of 2020 wasn’t able to do the things that they will be able to do. Waiting for the moment to walk on that stage and hear your name being called won’t be the case for the Class of 2020. It definitely was a shock to all of us with this worldwide pandemic, but at the same time nothing is promised in this world and we have to be grateful for the moments we did share with others. I’m beyond blessed for the memories I've shared with all of my friends and can’t wait for the next chapter of my life.
Ava Parker
Silver Wings, BSU-president
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
My favorite part about Silver Wings is being able to dance and create friendships. My favorite part of BSU is being able to create a place where students can come and share their feelings and opinions.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I Hope that my classmates will create something great out of a bad situation, and I hope we all succeed in the next chapter of our lives.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory from senior year was being able to create a poetry slam for Black History Month with the help of other members. One thing I will always remember my four years of Silver Wings and the friendships that were made.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
I have talked to most of my friends and classmates through FaceTime and social media.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
My drill team directors have impacted my life the most because they taught me how to be organized, respectful, responsible, and leadership.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope that people remember the Class of 2020 as students who succeed in life even though we had many setbacks.
Alisha Patel
Business Professionals of America (President), Latin Honor Society (President), DECA, Passing Hats, SNHS, NHS, Varsity Tennis Team
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
My favorite part of participating in those clubs is the sense of family each of them provides. I have found some of my best friends in each of those clubs as well as have formed relationships with so many clubs. While most of those are competition clubs, I firmly believe that friendly competition is vital in strengthening relationships and, thus, have seen this occur in my life and friendships these past four years.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I think this time at home has made me more grateful for the time I have in school, learning with my teachers and friends. Not only that, but I took simple things in life like going out for food or hanging out with my friends for granted and this was a nice wake up call to remember to cherish the little moments in life. I hope my classmates, while we have missed a vital part of high school, have enjoyed their time in school with their friends and remember to value every second and moment of their lives with the loved ones around them.
Krish Patel
Debate, DECA, NHS, SNHS, HOSA; captain of debate, treasurer of NHS, Vice President of SNHS
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I hope we stop taking each other’s company and school for granted as since we are now separated we realize the importance of our friends and teachers.
Lexi Pepper
I am a four-year drumline member and have been a band officer and percussion captain. Besides band, I am also in Student Council, National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Key Club, FCCLA, and PALS. Finally, I was given the honor to serve as the 2020 Senior Class President.
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
Without a doubt, my favorite aspect of being involved at Hebron is the people. I have met the most amazing people here that I would not know without being involved in these organizations. I am certain that the friendships I have made will last a lifetime.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
My mom always told me not to get too comfortable with my plans because life might take me a different route. This concept has been especially important in times like this. I hope this teaches everyone to let life take its toll and adapt to the situations that are unchangeable. I think it has also made people recognize that we can easily take for granted the simple things in life which in this case was school. Hopefully people can learn to appreciate every chapter of life for what it is.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
I don’t have a single favorite memory from senior, but I will always remember the amazing teachers/directors I had that pushed me to reach the current best version of myself and my peers that made each and every day of high school great.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
Other seniors have been coming to me with so many ideas to help out our class during this time. Everyone eagerly wants to make this situation better for everyone else.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Mr. Casalini impacted me the most in my high school career. I have only known him since junior year, but in that time he has pushed me to new heights academically and has educated me about how life works in ways no teacher has before, and he teaches AP Statistics. I could always count on him to have a welcoming room, a listening ear, and an honest answer.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
The Class of 2020 will always be remembered and will most likely be mentioned in U.S. History books for further generations to learn about. But, hopefully everything written in there can teach other classes how to handle things with grace and an open mind, even when they’re less than ideal.
Caitlin Pope
Silver Wings (Head Social Officer)
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
I enjoy having a team to lean on when I need them the most and just being able to dance and do what I love.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I think we will grow with technology and learn how to contact each other better when we’re away from one another and off at college. i think we all learned to not take things for granted because you never know when something can go away that fast and like that.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory from my senior year was probably the last pep rally and last home game because it was special moments for all the seniors on my team to be dancing the last time in the gym and on the football field and I will always cherish the friends i made while being on the team.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
All my teachers have been reaching out to us in many ways to make sure we are staying healthy and are doing good. I am blessed to have classmates and teachers who I can always lean on and that can understand me when I just need someone to talk to!
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Anne Bowling and Sammi Hobbs
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I just hope that we will never forget the good things we had this year and all the events we did have and got to enjoy while it lasted. I think we are all upset about it and hopefully we can figure out something to remember the class of 2020 so all the seniors can feel like they are recognized from all the hard work they put into being able to graduate and start a new chapter of their life.
Logan Ray
Silver Wings
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
Getting to meet and surround myself with amazing people was the best perk of being a Hebron Silver Wing. This organization has given me my best friends, and so many amazing memories. Joining Silver Wings was the best decision I made going into high school. It's not often that kids are presented with the opportunity to do what they love with the people who make them the happiest, and I can truly say I was lucky to experience this. I am incredibly grateful for this entire organization, and everyone who makes it so amazing. The best directors, the amazing managers, and the most reliable teammates make up our organization. I can't believe my time on this team is over, but I wouldn't trade my experience for the world.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I hope that everyone has used this time to reflect on all the amazing experiences our years at Hebron have given us. I know it's hard, and frustrating at times, but the hardest hill to climb is that life is simply not fair. There is no normal. Nothing about our four years at Hebron has been "normal". Most of us were born in the midst of 9/11, lived through news of school shootings around the world, and even been threatened that the world is ending. But, above all, we have remained calm and determined to finish our education. We have made a decision to focus, study, and stay in school, which will lead to many amazing opportunities. I hope the class has learned not to take life for granted, because we have seen so many times how valuable our lives are. I hope coming out of this, we are able to look at the world with a whole new perspective, and live life to the fullest.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory from my senior year is probably our senior night football game. It was the last time we got to experience high school football as a student. That night was the first time it hit me that everything is ending. That was the last time I will ever perform on the Hebron High School football field. Our senior night was amazing, we all got to take our picture under the balloons, get out names called out, and even got to walk across the field with our parents. I will always remember the Hebron football games, they were definitely a highlight of my high school experience. I loved getting to be a part of all the magic and chaos, but even more, I loved getting to do it with my best friends by my side.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
I think an obvious time that the entire school rose to the occasion during the pandemic was during our cap and gown pick up. The whole staff put in so much effort to make the seniors feel special one more time. They stood outside for three hours with a smile on their face (behind the masks of course). Driving through the wave of teachers and administrators made me feel so loved and appreciated. I am so grateful for the time that has been put into making the end of our senior year as special as possible. I am extremely grateful for all the parents who have reached out, or friends who have brought me treats, everyone has helped so much to make the seniors feel loved.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
I have had so many amazing teachers in my time here at Hebron High School, but the two people who have impacted me the most are my directors, Mrs. Bowling and Mrs. Hobbs. These two women have shown me what it looks like to have extreme passion for their job, and how much they love what they do. There was never a doubt in my mind that I wasn't enough for our team, because my directors provided me with the loving support that kept me going. These two ladies have impacted my life extremely and I will never forget the numerous ways they have led me to success. I love these ladies and I know they will continue to influence and impact the lives of girls to come.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope the Class of 2020 is remembered for the strength they have. I hope people look at our class with admiration for the drive and desire we have for our education. Not everyone is able to work through the circumstances, and live in the moment. I think our class has learned and adapted to the new ways of life, and will forever remember our senior year. We were put through an intense trial to finish out our high school education, and it has not been easy. I am very fortunate to have had teachers and administration that are willing to work with us to get our work finished, and put our health first. The Class of 2020 is something special, and we are coming out of this year stronger than ever.
Isabella Rogers
Silver Wings (Sergeant)
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
I enjoy Silver Wings because it was a home away from home. It is not every day where you find 60 girls that all share something so special. We are a family, we love and respect everyone.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
This is not how the class of 2020 thought the rest of our year was supposed to go. We were supposed to have events like prom, powderpuff, and graduation. I believe that this taught us never to take a single moment for granted because we never know what is going to happen. I hope that from here on out we are thankful for every little blessing in life.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory from senior year was homecoming week. The dress-up days always get everyone so involved in school spirit. The homecoming pep-rally is always packed and the energy is so high. The homecoming game is so much fun, especially when the hawks win! I will always remember the people I met through Hebron and the fun experiences I got to have!
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
Hebron and LISD have done a fantastic job trying to make things better for the Class of 2020. Rescheduling prom and graduation was so thoughtful and I think the Class of 2020 can say, Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. The community has respected shelter in place order and people wear masks and take social distancing seriously. I think it has been amazing to see so many people come together, even if it is 6ft apart;) Our healthcare workers are the superheroes in the world right now. Their dedication and commitment to fight the virus is amazing.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
The teacher that has impacted me the most is Mr. Prock. Mr. Prock is a history teacher but aside from that he is a shoulder to lean on. He knows all his students by day 2 of being in his class. If a teacher had to earn the, "Best Teacher Award Ever", he would win it.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
As a senior you expect a perfect last year of your youth. A lot of the things other classes got to experience we did not. I see this pandemic as a story to tell our kids. The Class of 2020 persevered through the challenges thrown at us. As adults entering the real world we are stronger than ever and have a better outlook on life. This is an event that will be in the textbooks so I hope history remembers the Class of 2020 forever.
Carsen Kennedy Schaefer
Cheer
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
I enjoyed being around my friends and being able to make memories with them at camps, practices, and games. I will never forget them!
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I hope that most of us have learned not to take anything for granted. We never knew that this year, our senior year, was going to end so quickly but I believe this experience has taught us how to stay more positive and optimistic during these difficult times.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
I have too many amazing memories to share but my favorite would have to be the senior pep rally because I got to fly in the stunts and the dance was amazing. Best pep rally I’ve done in all four years! I will never forget about cheer; joining cheer was the best decision I have made during my whole high school experience. I’m sad that it came to end but will never forget the friendships I made, the skills I mastered, and the lessons I learned!
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
1. My teachers have been checking on me, as well as my AP’s. 2. My neighborhood is sharing toilet paper and having chair parties to stay connected but still practicing 6 feet apart. 3. My friends are making masks.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
I loved all my teachers, but the one who made the most impact on me was Mr. Rodgers. Not only did he help me excel in math, but he actually taught me valuable lessons in life. He helped me with college and how to use my money wisely. We need more teachers like him that make school not so scary.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope we are celebrated in some way. Maybe a parade, one last get together when this is over, literally anything. I just wish it didn’t end like this. Most of us have been pretty down about the cancellation but are making the best out of it.
Catherine Shepard
Band (Clarinet Squad Leader)
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
I have always loved being a part of the Hebron band. We are a family. I love competitions. I have always felt so proud to be involved in this organization and I love sharing these experiences with my closest friends.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I think with this experience we will be closer in the future. We have this to bond over for the rest of our lives. We are the class that didn’t get the end of our senior year.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory from senior year was going to Grand Nationals with the Hebron band. We were a family on that field and I am proud to say our last performance was our best one. I will remember all the memories I made with my friends in band and all of the late nights/ early mornings. It was the best four years I could have asked for.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
I have seen us post encouraging words throughout social media, share memories from this year, and people driving by celebrating birthdays. We are rising above and being thankful for what we have.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
I think the teacher that impacted me the most was my freshman Algebra teacher, Mr. Guillory. He encouraged me to always do my best and to achieve my goals. He has inspired me to become a math teacher. I will always thank him for being a great teacher.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
I hope history remembers us as a strong, unique class. We are always there for each other and I hope the world sees that. I think we are all very disappointed in what has happened to our last semester in high school. We are sad to miss walking the halls, class prank, senior trip, prom, but I know we will push through and become even better than we were.
Morgan Snyder
Circle of Friends Secretary
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
The forever friendships built; our club is so loving and caring and I wouldn’t have wanted to spend my days anywhere else. This club has changed my life for the better and I’m so grateful for these friendships made.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I have learned to never take things for granted and embrace the moments you’re in because you never know what lies ahead. Live your life to the fullest, love the best you know how, and don’t ignore the little happy parts of life.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
My favorite memory of senior year was sitting in the circle of friends' lunch room with Emely and she began crying about how much she loved me. The little parts of high school and the friendships made are what impacted me the most and are what I will forever cherish.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
By supporting each other on hard days by making cookies and writing letters and going out on walks every day. This is something my community would’ve never done before, and I hope this continues.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Mrs. Cummings. Not only did she care for each individual in this club but she took time out of her days to love the best she could. She constantly shows God's love, from coming to my freezing soccer games or hugging me when I’m crying my eyes out. She is the most patient, most caring, and most compassionate woman I’ve met and it’s changed me for the better.
In the years to come, how do you hope history remembers the Class of 2020 and how you and your classmates reacted to this tough last semester?
We have changed for the better; we are more compassionate, we are more understanding, we now are grateful for every little circumstance, and we have finally united as one.
Mario Ventura Uriarte
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Miss Asmar, I never had a math class with her, but she was my teacher for advisory for 2 years. I really appreciate the patience that she had with us and I want to say thanks because she is a great person, an excellent teacher and she helped me a lot through this year.
Larsen Vallecillo
Yearbook
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
I've worked on senior ads and I've been one of the staff that's been on the yearbook team the longest, it's been fun and I've made plenty of good friends. Oh, and we've gone through 3 yearbook advisers, produced 3 books, and made memories.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I feel like we might be more comfortable doing things online. I'm sad that we have to end the school year online, but this online stuff is easy and I could do it in my sleep, and I technically feel like I've graduated. I'm not sure to be honest.
What is your favorite memory from your senior year and what will you always remember about high school?
If I choose to think about the memories, there's many things that happened in yearbook, but honestly I'm having trouble remembering everything that happened as it's basically a blur by this point. The only extracurricular activity I've done in my whole high school career is yearbook. Never been at the top of my class, I haven't taken any Pre-AP/AP/Dual Credit classes, and haven't joined any clubs and haven't gone to homecoming.
What are some of the ways you have seen your classmates, staff and/or community rise to the occasion during this worldwide pandemic?
People are learning to adapt to changes.
What teacher or staff member impacted you the most throughout your school years?
Mr. Brazell was one of the best teachers I've had in school. I've had him for my 9th grade World Geo class. It was a fun class and I looked forward to coming to class each day. Ms. Spurgin has also been good, it sucks that she left the school but we've truly had our moments together. Almost all of my HHS teachers have been good. The ones that weren't good no longer work at the school.
Robert J. Werner
Band
What do you enjoy most about being a part of your group, club or team?
What I enjoy the most about being in the band is its incredibly strong sense of community coupled with the high standards and determination branded within each and every one of the band members. After being in the band for 4 years, I'd say one would be hard-pressed to find another high school organization with a greater sense of community and higher level of focus than a high school band.
The end of your final semester of high school has been unique, to say the least. How do you hope you and your classmates have grown, or will grow from this experience?
I hope that after this final semester my classmates and I will have grown to become better leaders, particularly in times of inconvenience, by following the examples of our wonderful teachers and administrators who guided us as we shifted from in-school learning to online learning.
See more from the Class of 2020 by visiting the LISD Senior Spotlights.