Among the 1,500 students in the Prosper ISD graduating class of 2024, the valedictorians and salutatorians of each campus have ascended to the highest point of academic achievement, epitomizing excellence and leadership. These outstanding individuals shine brightly among their peers, poised at the forefront as they set sail toward their futures.
Prosper High School: Forging Paths to Excellence
The largest of the three high schools boasts a cohort of outstanding students who have excelled academically and in their commitment to extracurricular activities. Leading the pack is valedictorian Kaitlin Hoover, who will attend Texas A&M in the fall to study Computer Science with a minor in Robotics. While at PHS, she actively participated in Girls in STEM, Girls in Computer Science and was a Student Ambassador. Hoover acknowledges the profound impact of teacher Dan Geiter, whose mentorship fueled her passion for Engineering and Computer Science. “He has helped to foster my interest and growth in engineering in computer science and is absolutely one of the best teachers I have ever had,” Hoover said.
While she will miss her family and friends when she leaves Prosper, she looks forward to making new friends, attending football games, and participating in undergraduate engineering research at A&M.
Following closely behind Kaitlin is salutatorian Benny Hu, who has aspirations of pursuing a career in academic research within the realm of physics. Mr. Thomas Gomez stands out as a significant source of inspiration for Hu during his high school journey. “From the moment I stepped into his Calculus classroom, his love of math was infectious,” Hu said. While as PHS, he was actively involved in various organizations, including NHS, NTHS, SNHS, Mu Alpha Theta, UIL Science and Band. He attributes his experience in classes such as BC Calculus and PCIS to the cultivation of invaluable study habits and confidence. While saying goodbye to the cherished friends brings him a hint of melancholy, Hu embraces the journey ahead with unwavering trust in the process and confident that all will unfold as it should.
Rock Hill High School: Where Leaders Rise
At the forefront of Rock Hill High School’s graduating class, the valedictorian and salutatorian epitomized leadership and student involvement. First is Ethan Horsley, a National Merit Finalist and esteemed member of the Rock Hill Chamber Orchestra. Ethan will attend the University of Texas, eagerly awaiting the thrilling atmosphere of Longhorn football and basketball games. He plans to major in Biochemistry, driven by an aspiration to practice medicine in the future. Horsley credits Mrs. Lauren Javandoost and her GT Humanities and American Studies class for igniting his passion for learning and propelling him towards his medical aspirations. “She showed me the joy someone can have when they pursue the thing they are most passionate about,” Horsley said. Participating in the orchestra stood out as one of the highlights of his years in high school. The thrill of performances and the meaningful interactions with elementary students left an indelible mark, creating memories he will never forget.
Salutatorian, Alexia Callahan, will also be enrolling at The University of Texas, pursuing a double major in government and Spanish. Throughout high school, she was involved in Cross Country, Track, Spanish Honor Society and French Honor Society, earning scholarships from the cross country booster club and PEF. Callahan attributes her growth and success to the positive influence of her cross country coaches, Coach Morgan and Coach Meucci, as well as her French teacher, Paule Frenette, whose encouragement propelled her towards her passion for learning. “Madame Frenette is not only a wonderful educator, but she is also a very kind and joyful person who has taught me many valuable life lessons that I will never forget,” Callahan said. Guided by the support of her parents, she’s been encouraged to take risks. She eagerly anticipates making new connections and immersing herself in the diverse stories of others. Callahan is excited for the future and plans to become an immigration lawyer, driven by a desire to enact positive change through pro bono cases, championing justice and compassion in the realm of immigration law.
Walnut Grove High School: Nurturing Tomorrow’s Innovators
At the helm of Walnut Grove High School’s first graduating class stands Sariah Thomas, headed to Dartmouth College in the fall, where she intends to study Biological Sciences and Global Health. Thompas attributes her understanding of medical practices and commitment to community outreach to her coursework in Clinical Health Science and PCIS. A recipient of many scholarships, including PEF, Purple and Gold and Chancellor’s scholarships, her dedication to academic excellence is matched by her pursuit to advancing humanitarian healthcare. “I hope to create infectious disease and global health centers around the world that treat outbreaks, hold public interventions, and train and employ local aspiring healthcare professionals so they can begin to give back to their community,” Thomas said. She is looking forward to connecting with new people from all over the world and being surrounded by so many passionate, curious and different people while at Dartmouth.
Aditya Dhanraj, salutatorian of WGHS, is set to begin his academic journey at The University of Texas where he will pursue Computer Science. Engaging in a plethora of activities such as soccer, Academic UIL, NHS, Student Council, Dhanraj’s many pursuits have shaped him into a well-rounded individual. He is looking forward to working alongside others for technological and scientific growth. “I hope to change the world by challenging the boundaries of intellectual thought and innovation,” Dhanraj said. Because of amazing teachers and classes in high school, Dhanraj was able to participate in diverse discussions that brought out his curious and innovative side. He has fond memories of high school and is looking forward to building new friendships and diving further into research and making new memories.
Guiding Lights on the Path to Success
Beyond their academic achievements, these students exemplify the importance of involvement in clubs and organizations and extra curricular activities. Whether it’s assuming leadership roles, competing in UIL events, or volunteering in their communities, their academic and extracurricular pursuits have shaped them into well-rounded individuals poised for success in college and beyond. Central to the success of these top students are the dedicated educators who have served as mentors, guides and sources of inspiration. By instilling a love for learning and offering support, these teachers have played an important role in shaping the path of their students’ lives. Their commitment to excellence and belief in their potential have empowered these students to reach new heights and pursue their dreams with confidence.
In Prosper ISD, the students from Prosper High School, Rock Hill High School and Walnut Grove High School serve as exemplary examples of the district’s commitment to excellence in education. As they prepare to embark on their collegiate journeys, they carry with them the lessons learned, friendships made and memories cherished during their time in high school. And as they step into the future, they do so with optimism, curiosity and a determination to make a difference in the world.