Valedictorian Christopher Dykes and salutatorian Caroline Krauss are the high achievers at the top of this year’s senior class.
Dykes plans on going to the University of Texas at Dallas, majoring in Business Administration
“After college, I plan to start an electronics recycling business, though that is subject to change should I find something I would prefer to do,” he elaborated.
He is involved in the tabletop games club and orchestra where he plays the cello.
Dykes is taking several AP classes, and that can lead to an imbalance between an academic life and personal life.
“I think the biggest challenge I have faced has been balancing academics and extracurriculars,” Dykes commented. “I have to practice almost every day to keep getting better, go play at events, and deal with 6 AP classes of homework.”
To circumvent the hefty workload, he does his homework sooner rather than later, something he advises all students to do.
Dykes’s accolades include: All-Region Orchestra, AP Scholar, AP Scholar with Distinction, National Honor Society, and Outstanding Orchestra Member.
The salutatorian has also been a stand out student.
Krauss is majoring in Psychology at the University of Virginia, and plans to add on a business degree further in her college career.
While becoming the salutatorian wasn’t her specific goal, Krauss was set on getting in the top 10.
Over her high school career, she has been involved in various organizations, and has a variety of achievements under her belt.
Krauss has been a part of the following: Lake Highlands Cheer, Kitty Carter’s Dance Factory, Richardson Youth Leadership, Girls Service League, National Honor Society, and other leadership opportunities at her church.
“They shaped my sense of balance and gave me opportunities to spend time with some of my favorite people,” she shared.
Krauss balances her academic life and personal life by “prioritizing my family and friends while also practicing strong time management and commitment to extracurriculars and school.”
Her favorite part of being a wildcat is watching the sports and performances our school puts on.
Like Dykes, Krauss also has words of wisdom for her peers.
“I would tell students to make the most of shared experiences and relationships in high school because it all goes by so quickly,” she expressed. “Challenge yourself and get involved in the things you care about, but don’t let the pressure to be perfect take away from small moments with others that become lasting memories.”
The top ten for this year are:
- Christopher Dykes
- Caroline Krauss
- Peri Howell
- Gracie Isbell
- Yireh Rivera
- Miriam McClung
- Sally Chancey
- Hayes Wilcox
- Kylie Littlefield
- Caroline Gibbs
