🎓Salutatorian #11 Rosemary Jones
➡️ Post Secondary School: Benedictine College
đź“š Field of Study: Double major in Political Science and History (Pre-Law focus)
🦓 Began at CPS: 7th Grade
đź”´ What advice would you give your freshman self?
"I would tell my freshman self to trust the process and not be so hard on myself. I would also remind myself to be present, build relationships, and enjoy the little moments, because high school goes by faster than you expect."
đź”´ What has the journey to this honor taught you about yourself?
"This journey has taught me that progress matters more than perfection. I have learned the importance of discipline, perseverance, and balance, along with the fact that I will definitely make mistakes along the way. Those moments helped me grow just as much as my successes did."
đź”´ What does this accomplishment mean to you?
"Being recognized as a salutatorian means a lot to me because it represents the effort and dedication I have put in over the years. All the late nights studying and balancing academics with extracurriculars feels validated, and I feel a sense of confidence that my hard work truly paid off."
đź”´ What was the hardest part (challenges) you had to overcome to achieve this honor?
"One of the hardest parts was pushing myself to put in effort, especially this past year. It was tempting to take a step back with how busy senior year gets, but learning to hold myself to a higher standard helped me grow and stay committed to my goals."
đź”´ What are you most proud of in your high school career?
"I am most proud of the opportunities I have taken advantage of and the growth that came from them."
TSA: Top 3 nationally, state champions, chapter president, regional officer
Oklahoma Girls State: Speaker of the House,
Top 5 Girls Nation Senator finalist
Oklahoma House of Representatives Page Program participant
đź”´ Looking back, what does being a Zebra mean to you?
"Being a Zebra means representing a community that values growth, leadership, and support. It is about using what you have learned to uplift others and leave a positive impact wherever you go."
đź”´ What ELEMENTARY staff member made the biggest impact on your life and how? (Sequoyah Elementary)
"Mrs. Owens showed me that learning is a gift and something to look forward to. She shaped my love of learning and dedication to education."
đź”´ What JUNIOR HIGH staff member made the biggest impact on your life and how?
"Mr. Isenbart encouraged me to join TSA, which became one of the most meaningful parts of my high school experience and helped shape my leadership skills."
đź”´ What HIGH SCHOOL staff member made the biggest impact on your life and how?
"My band directors, Mrs. Acord and Mr. Smith, created a welcoming environment. Ms. Dooley encouraged me in TSA, and Mr. Doonkeen helped me discover a love for jazz choir."
đź”´ Activities you have been involved in:
Band, Marching Band, Concert Band, Jazz Choir, Chemistry Club, Choir, National Honor Society, TSA, Christian Club
đź”´ Honors / Awards:
Student of the Month, Oklahoma Honor Roll, multiple band performance and leadership awards, two-time James M. Breckenridge Repertoire Award in piano
đź”´ Scholarships Awarded:
$171,964 total offered; $34,000 awarded to attend Benedictine College (merit and music scholarships)
đź”´ What is the ONE thing you absolutely take with you to college?
"Not taking life too seriously. Some of the best moments come from being present and having fun."
#CPSZEBRAPRIDE