Bryan Jackson, Fairley High School Valedictorian

“As a kid who grew up taking speech classes and resource classes, no one was expecting me to stand before you today as the Valedictorian. I was behind in school, got teased because I couldn’t answer questions in class, and felt misunderstood, miserable and sometimes unworthy. But one day I decided life had thrown enough punches at me and it was time I started throwing some back. I decided other people’s words were holding me back and I decided to let go. To forgive. And that along with some hard work has brought me here today. Just one more lesson we can take from our time at Fairley: All it takes is a little forgiving and not giving in to the pressure. Realize and comprehend you mean something.”

Ka Teria Scullark, Hillcrest High School Valedictorian

“In the midst of school, I have learned that you should always keep moving forward. The thought of preserving your dreams or even being able to do anything you want should be enough encouragement to proceed. Obstacles will only result in you doing two things, backing down and regretting not going on, or advancing and bragging about how you made it through. While deciding, don’t forget that your choices don’t just affect you. I also intend to use my knowledge to inform the youth on how getting an education is the key to everything you do, and with that education you can advance in any career path you choose. My piece of advice to underclassmen is very straightforward. 'Work hard in silence, so that you can allow your success to make the noise for you.'"