🎓#6 Salutatorian – Claire Hardage
➡Next Steps: The University of Oklahoma
đź“šField of Study: Health and Exercise Science
🦓Zebra Since: Kindergarten
đź”´ What advice would you give your freshman self?
"Branch out and talk to people, don’t procrastinate, and make the most of it."
đź”´ Through my journey to becoming a salutatorian,
"This journey has taught me that I am capable of many things when I put my mind to them. I’ve learned to believe in myself, stay resilient, and appreciate the people who’ve supported me along the way."
đź”´ What does this accomplishment mean to you?
"It means a lot to me. It’s proof that my efforts were worth it, and it reminds me how far I’ve come with the help of some amazing people."
đź”´ What were the hardest challenges you overcame to achieve this honor?
"The hardest part was dealing with procrastination and learning how to spend my time wisely between school, family, and extracurriculars."
đź”´ What are you most proud of in your high school career?
"I am most proud of the relationships and memories I’ve made over the past four years."
đź”´ Looking back on your school experience at CPS, what does being a Zebra mean to you?
"To me, being a Zebra means having a close, supportive community that strives to succeed, and having the ability to maximize my opportunities through efficient scheduling."
đź”´ What elementary staff member impacted your life most, and how?
"Mrs. Stone, my third grade teacher from Westside Elementary, was impactful through her support and ability to make learning fun. She also made sure I would never forget my times tables songs, which I value greatly."
đź”´ What junior high staff member impacted your life most, and how?
"Coach Gash from WRJH made a big impact on my life. He was a great math teacher and is one of the people who made me enjoy math so much."
đź”´ What high school staff member made the most significant impact on your life, and how?
"Ms. Garroutte and Mr. Riggs have impacted me the most. Their support and encouragement pushed me to challenge myself, and their passion for teaching helped spark my love for both math and science."
đź”´ What activities have you been involved in?
"AP / Pre-AP Programs; Athletics (Volleyball); Chemistry Club; Concurrent; FUZE; Math Club / Mu Alpha Theta; Red Army; SkillsUSA; Work Experience / Shadow / Internship (Career Development Program); Biomed Club"
đź”´ What is the one thing you will absolutely take with you to college?
"Kizer Ballard!"
đź”´ Awards and Honors
"Oklahoma Honor Society, Volleyball First Team All-Conference, Student of the Month, Volleyball All-State Selection."
đź”´ Anything else you'd like to add...
"CHS has given me many opportunities through block scheduling and stellar staff that pour into their students, and for that, I am very grateful. Go Zebras forever!"
#cpszebrapride