🎓#2 Valedictorian – Kizer Ballard
➡Next Steps: The University of Oklahoma
đź“šField of Study: Political Science
🦓Zebra Since: Kindergarten
đź”´ What advice would you give your freshman self?
"Just have fun. Nothing is that serious, so don’t be embarrassed, and make the most out of everything."
đź”´ Through my journey to becoming a valedictorian,
"It’s taught me that I can achieve anything with hard work. I’ve learned to advocate for myself and what is right."
đź”´ What does this accomplishment mean to you?
"It is recognition for all of my efforts throughout Claremore."
đź”´ What were the hardest challenges you overcame to achieve this honor?
"I struggled with motivating myself to do my homework, and I took many classes I did not want to take."
đź”´ What are you most proud of in your high school career?
"I’m most proud of the fight that me and other students put up against poor administration. Decisions were made lacking student interest, and many students rallied against these choices at board meetings and other outlets."
đź”´ Looking back on your school experience at CPS, what does being a Zebra mean to you?
"Growing up, being a Zebra meant being part of a close-knit family with strong academic values."
đź”´ What elementary staff member impacted your life most, and how?
"Michelle Sagely (my aunt) had the biggest impact on me. She helped me get used to being in a new big school, and she was there for me all through elementary school. If there was anything I needed, I knew she was just a few doors down. Her class also showed me how much I love to read."
đź”´ What high school staff member made the most significant impact on your life, and how?
"Mr. Cummings. I had so many classes with him between the academic bowl and U.S. history. He sparked my love for American history, inspired me to join the academic bowl, and is the GOAT. His teaching methods taught me so much about society and the way our democracy works. I appreciate him so much for all he has done."
đź”´ What activities have you been involved in?
"Academic Team; AP / Pre-AP Programs; Athletics (Tennis); Chemistry Club; Concurrent; FUZE; Math Club / Mu Alpha Theta; National Honor Society; SkillsUSA; Young Dems"
đź”´ What is the one thing you will absolutely take with you to college?
"Claire."
đź”´ Awards and Honors
"Academic Bowl State Champion, Youth Leadership Oklahoma Class 24, Student of the Month, Tennis Conference Champion, AP Scholar, Academic Bowl State Runner-Up, and Girls State Delegate."
đź”´ Anything else you'd like to add...
"I love block scheduling."
#cpszebrapride