🎓#18 Salutatorian - Max Hammond
➡️ Post Secondary School: Rogers State University
📚 Field of Study: Nursing (BSN)
🦓 Began at CPS: 5th Grade
🔴 What advice would you give your freshman self?
"If I could go back, I’d tell myself to have more fun. The time will pass, the grades will go in, but fun won’t happen unless you make it. I’ve enjoyed high school, but I wish I would’ve lived in the moment more—so have fun and enjoy life."
🔴 What has the journey to this honor taught you about yourself?
"This journey has shown me that I’m not a quitter. Even when I was tired, overwhelmed, or doubting myself, I showed up and got the work done. I’ve learned that I am resilient, hard-working, and capable."
🔴 What does this accomplishment mean to you?
"It proves that it’s possible to achieve great things, even when life feels overwhelming. Despite moving schools, repeating classes, and balancing responsibilities, I made it—and I’m incredibly proud and thankful for everyone who supported me."
🔴 What was the hardest part (challenges) you had to overcome to achieve this honor?
"Learning time management and organization. Balancing school, work, and sports meant late nights, studying during lunch, and finding motivation even when I was exhausted—but it taught me responsibility and priorities."
🔴 What are you most proud of in your high school career?
"My motivation, resilience, and determination to maintain strong grades while working and staying committed to my sport."
🔴 Looking back, what does being a Zebra mean to you?
"Being a Zebra means being loud, bold, and compassionate—showing up, supporting others, and not being afraid to be unapologetically yourself."
🔴 What ELEMENTARY staff member made the biggest impact on your life and how? (Westside Elementary)
"Mrs. James—she taught me kindness, responsibility, and life lessons that have stuck with me."
🔴 What JUNIOR HIGH staff member made the biggest impact on your life and how? (WRJH)
"Mrs. Lee—she always supported me, gave me space when I needed it, and made me feel comfortable being myself."
🔴 What HIGH SCHOOL staff member made the biggest impact on your life and how? (Claremore High School)
"Mr. Z—he pushed me to pursue college, helped with scholarships, and supported me through personal challenges."
🔴 Activities you have been involved in:
Young Democrats, Biomed Club, Colorguard, Winterguard, Tournament of Champions
🔴 Honors / Awards:
Salutatorian, Honor Roll, Winterguard Captain, Colorguard Captain, Most Improved Winterguard Performer, Various Z Awards, Elk’s Lodge Award for English
🔴 Scholarships Awarded:
RSU Academic Scholarship ($2,000 x4 years), RSU President’s Leadership Class Scholarship ($10,000 x4 years)
🔴 What is the ONE thing you absolutely take with you to college?
"My comic book collection: Batman: Hush, Arkham Knight Genesis, and Teen Titans. And the support, lessons, and confidence I’ve gained."