Valedictorians and Salutatorians lead the Class of 2026

We are pleased to feature our high school valedictorians and salutatorians for this year.

Agricultural Science and Technology Academy

Kendall Mason, the Valedictorian of ASTA, will attend Baylor University in Waco, majoring in Biology on a pre-dental track with aspirations of becoming a dentist or orthodontic specialist. She attended Los Reyes Elementary, Folks Middle School, and O’Connor High School, where she served as Class President and earned an NCAA Division I scholarship to play women’s soccer at Baylor.

Mason credits teacher Robert Beckwith for encouraging her growth and confidence during high school. She says Northside ISD’s strong academic foundation and supportive environment helped prepare her for the demands of college while reinforcing discipline and perseverance. Her favorite high school moment was scoring the game-winning playoff goal against Brandeis. She is grateful to her parents, Mike and Michelle Mason, as well as her family, friends, teammates, and mentors for their continued support.

Haylee Hennig is the salutatorian of the Agriculture Science and Technology Academy and plans to attend Texas A&M University in College Station, where she will major in Biology on a path to becoming an anesthesiologist. A product of Los Reyes Elementary and Folks Middle School, Hennig excelled as a student-athlete and earned numerous honors, including the Valero Alamo Bowl Student-Athlete Scholarship and multiple university merit scholarships.

She credits her early inspiration to Lisa Flores, her elementary teacher, who helped shape her belief in the power of relationships in education. Hennig says Northside ISD prepared her well for the challenges ahead, from rigorous coursework to lessons in teamwork through basketball. Her favorite memories come from time spent on the court with teammates, where she built lasting friendships. She expresses deep gratitude to her parents, Hank and Devin Hennig, as well as to the teachers and coaches who supported her journey.

Brandeis High School

Parker Burch is the valedictorian of Brandeis High School and will attend The University of Texas at Austin, where he plans to study Plan II Honors and Communication & Leadership with the goal of pursuing a career in communications. He attended McAndrew Elementary and Rawlinson Middle School and made a strong impact at Brandeis by co-founding the Giving Tree Charity and serving as a Leadership Intern for Camp Invention.

Burch credits his high school teacher, Maria-D Cisneros, as a major influence throughout his high school years, helping him grow both academically and personally. Through opportunities like AP courses and ISM, he gained real-world experience, including mentoring under professionals and publishing two articles. His favorite memory was a playoff water polo victory against Clark that exceeded expectations and united the community. He thanks his parents, Christine and Charles Burch, for their unwavering support.

Jarett Goldblatt is the salutatorian of Brandeis High School and plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin, majoring in Chemical Engineering with the goal of owning his own firm. A former student of Leon Springs Elementary and Hector Garcia Middle School, Goldblatt was an active leader throughout high school, serving as Class President, Superintendent Student Voice Forum Representative, and HOSA Vice President, while also participating in National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta.

He credits teacher Karri Meador for consistently encouraging him to reach his full potential. Goldblatt says Northside ISD helped shape his work ethic, character, and vision for success. One of his favorite memories was energizing the crowd as the student section hype man at the annual Crush game. He extends his thanks to his parents, Lori and Jeff Goldblatt, and to the teachers and peers who supported him along the way.

Brennan High School

Odelia Kislyuk is the valedictorian of Brennan High School and will attend Stanford University, where she plans to major in Computer Science and pursue a career as a data scientist. A former student of Luna Middle School, Kislyuk held several leadership roles, including National Honor Society President, Book Club President, and Class Officer Vice President.

She credits teacher Edward Guerra for helping her build confidence and believe in herself. Kislyuk says Northside ISD provided the opportunities that shaped her leadership skills and personal growth, preparing her to adapt and succeed in any path she chooses. Her favorite memories include traveling to Corpus Christi for an FCCLA competition and the everyday moments spent laughing with friends that kept her motivated. She shares her gratitude with her parents, Yelena and Vitaliy Kislyuk, and her close circle of friends.

Oluchukwu (Oluchi) Onyeagucha is the salutatorian of Brennan High School and plans to attend The University of Texas at San Antonio, where she will major in Biology with the goal of becoming a pediatrician. A former student of Rhodes Elementary, Rudder Middle School, and Bernal Middle School, Onyeagucha distinguished herself as a leader, serving as Senior Class Vice President, National Honor Society Vice President, and Historian for the founding cohort of Daughters of the King. She is also a recipient of the UTSA Top Scholar full-ride scholarship, the San Antonio Area Foundation Legacy Scholarship, and the True Vine Baptist Church Queen Elizabeth Grice Scholarship.

She credits early inspiration to her elementary Gifted and Talented teacher, Nicolas Smith, who encouraged her curiosity and love of learning. Onyeagucha says Northside ISD’s rigorous academic opportunities, including AP and Dual Credit courses, have prepared her well for the path ahead. One of her most meaningful memories was advancing to state at the TAFE Area Competition her senior year, a moment she describes as both proud and bittersweet. She extends heartfelt thanks to her parents, Benjamin and Ijeoma Onyeagucha, her brothers, and the teachers and mentors who supported her journey.

CAST Teach

Adriana Catharina Pater is the valedictorian of CAST Teach and will attend Brigham Young University, where she plans to major in Human Resource Management with the goal of becoming a corporate trainer. A former student of Esparza Elementary and Ross Middle School, Pater was deeply involved in leadership, serving as TAFE Vice President, National Honor Society Parliamentarian, Book Club Vice President, and Co-Founder and Vice President of the Crochet Club. She is also a recipient of the American Funds Scholarship.

She credits educator Hallie Gelabert for mentoring her and helping her discover her potential, particularly through an independent study mentorship that gave her insight into educational leadership. Pater says CAST Teach’s hands-on experiences, including internships and professional conferences, prepared her for life beyond high school and helped shape the person she hopes to become. One of her most impactful experiences was advocating for mental health at the State Capitol after launching a campus Wellness Room initiative. Following graduation, she will defer college to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She expresses deep gratitude to her parents, David and Lara Lee Pater, and to the many mentors who supported her journey.

Jocelyn Ileana Leilani Camacho-Hernandez is the salutatorian of CAST Teach and plans to attend the New York Institute of Technology in Manhattan, where she will major in Information Science with plans to earn a master’s degree in library science and become a public librarian. She attended Hoffmann Elementary and Briscoe Middle School and took on leadership roles as Social Media Manager for Bibliotech’s Student Advisory Council and as a Communications Intern for CAST Schools. She earned multiple honors, including the Presidential Scholarship from New York Institute of Technology and additional scholarships from Syracuse University, Long Island University, and the University of North Texas.

She credits her AP Psychology teacher, Ariana Tamez, for sparking her interest in psychology and creating an engaging classroom environment. Camacho-Hernandez says the flexibility and career exploration opportunities within CAST Teach helped her discover her passion for librarianship. Her favorite memories center around the program’s early days in the portables at Stevens High School, where she built lasting friendships and experienced significant personal growth. She thanks her parents, Joe Angel Hernandez and Natasha Ida Camacho-Hernandez, her close friends, and her older brother Dominic, whose service in the United States Marine Corps continues to inspire her.

Clark High School

Cole Rosenberg is the valedictorian of Clark High School and will attend Stanford University, where he plans to major in Civil Engineering with an interest in airport or cruise ship design. A former student of Blattman Elementary and Hobby Middle School, Rosenberg was an active leader, serving as Texas State Junior Classical League Area B Chair, Cross-Country Team Captain, Interact Club Parliamentarian, National Honor Society Parliamentarian, and Art History Club Co-President.

He credits teacher Shelley Beck for providing opportunities that helped him grow both academically and professionally, from launching a recycling initiative to participating in the ISM program. Rosenberg says Northside ISD allowed him to explore a wide range of interests, helping him become a well-rounded student. His favorite memory was competing at the Texas State Junior Classical League Convention, where he and his team won a thrilling tiebreaker before performing in the talent show. He shares his appreciation for his family, counselors, teachers, and friends who supported him along the way.

Marissa Buchek is the salutatorian of Clark High School and plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin, majoring in Business with the long-term goal of becoming a physician. A graduate of Blattman Elementary and Hobby Middle School, Buchek held numerous leadership roles, including National Honor Society President, National Charity League Alamo Chapter President, Clark Latin Club Co-President, and Clark Toastmasters Program President. She is also a National Semifinalist for the National Honor Society Scholarship.

She credits her fifth-grade teacher, Haley Buchman, as an early and lasting influence who helped her believe in her academic potential. Buchek says Northside ISD provided a well-rounded foundation, balancing academics, athletics, and real-world experiences like physician shadowing through the ISM program. Her favorite memories include summers spent at Laity Lodge Youth Camp, where she later returned as a volunteer. She expresses gratitude to her parents, Alecia and Robert Buchek, her friends, and the many educators who shaped her journey.

Communications Arts High School

Erika Mitchell is the valedictorian of Communications Arts High School and plans to pursue Architecture with the goal of becoming an architect. A graduate of Thornton Elementary and Rudder Middle School, Mitchell held key leadership roles, including SkillsUSA Chapter President and Treasurer, as well as Mu Alpha Theta Secretary.

She credits teacher Trisha Cleveland for helping her grow both academically and personally, encouraging her to step outside her comfort zone through SkillsUSA and animation. Mitchell says Northside ISD provided her with a strong academic foundation through AP and dual enrollment courses, along with valuable technical skills in Adobe and 3D design. Her favorite high school memory is a lighthearted moment shared with friends that reflects the strong connections she built during her time at Comm Arts. She expresses her appreciation to her friends and teachers who supported and encouraged her throughout her journey.

Maria “Francesca” Chiapoco is the salutatorian of Communications Arts High School and plans to attend Baylor University, where she will major in Biochemistry with the goal of becoming a research scientist. A student of Mireles Elementary, Briscoe Middle School, and Communications Arts/ Taft High School, Chiapoco was a dedicated leader in the arts, serving as President and Treasurer of the Taft Raider Orchestra, Class of 2026 Secretary, and Concertmaster of the Varsity Orchestra.

She credits Orchestra Director Esther Lim for reigniting her passion for music and creating a supportive environment where she could fully be herself. Chiapoco says it was the people of Northside ISD—teachers, staff, and support personnel—who most shaped her experience and prepared her for the future. One of her most memorable experiences was traveling through Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, where she explored new cultures and created lasting memories with friends. She extends her deepest gratitude to her family for their constant love and guidance.

Construction Careers Academy

Tino Coroneos, valedictorian of the Construction Careers Academy, will attend The University of Texas at Austin to study Neuroscience, with the goal of becoming a neurosurgeon. A student of Evers Elementary, Raba Elementary, and Jordan Middle School, Coroneos embraced leadership roles throughout high school, including Orchestra President and Vice President, as well as Co-President of the Card Club. He is also the recipient of the Texas Education Agency’s Highest Ranking Graduate tuition waiver.

He credits teacher Jason Paul with shaping both his technical skills and personal growth, describing his construction management course as an experience that extended far beyond the classroom. Coroneos says NISD prepared him for the future by exposing him to a wide range of learning environments, helping him develop adaptability and resilience.

His favorite memory is a ski trip to Winter Park, Colorado with his orchestra, where he built lasting friendships. He extends sincere thanks to his parents, Alicia Paez and Craig Coroneos, and to teachers Jeffrey Huvar and Gregory Combs for inspiring his interest in science and making learning memorable.

Audriana Cribb, salutatorian of the Construction Careers Academy, will attend Texas A&M University in College Station to study Architecture, with plans to become a commercial architect. A former student of Jefferson Middle School, she distinguished herself through her technical focus and was awarded the Texas A&M Camp ARCH Scholarship.

Cribb credits teacher Robert Gonzalez with encouraging her to pursue competitions and extracurricular opportunities that strengthened her skills and prepared her for the next level. She says the hands-on, career-focused environment at CCA played a pivotal role in shaping her academic and professional goals.

Her favorite memory comes from her sophomore year Spanish class, where she and her best friend balanced laughter and learning while creating lasting memories. She extends heartfelt thanks to her parents, Johnny and Michelle Cribb, and to the educators who supported her journey toward a career in architecture.

Harlan High School

Javier Martinez is the valedictorian of Harlan High School and plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin, where he will major in Biology with the goal of becoming a trauma surgeon. Throughout his time in Northside—attending multiple elementary and middle schools—Martinez emerged as a strong leader, serving as Sophomore Class President, Youth Health and Medical Law Vice President, Harlan Volleyball Team Captain, HOSA Junior Class Representative, and Podcast Club Vice President.

He credits coach and teacher Megan Williams for pushing him to reach his full potential and instilling confidence in his abilities. Martinez says Northside ISD’s rigorous academic and CTE programs gave him valuable exposure to the medical field and strengthened his readiness for college. His favorite memory was a holiday outing with friends that solidified lifelong relationships. He expresses heartfelt thanks to his family, mentors, and close friends for their unwavering encouragement.

Noelia Plantenga is the salutatorian of Harlan High School and plans to attend Texas A&M University, where she will major in Biomedical Science with the goal of becoming a veterinarian. A former student of Lieck Elementary and Bernal Middle School, Plantenga was an active leader, serving as Orchestra President, Mariachi “Los Halcones” leader, French National Honor Society Treasurer, and Vice President of both the Litter Pick-Up Club and Research Club.

She credits teacher Mrs. Bannert for introducing her to the rigor of college-level coursework and inspiring her curiosity and critical thinking. Plantenga says Northside ISD provided countless opportunities for growth, helping her develop communication skills, intellectual curiosity, and respect for diverse perspectives. Her favorite memory was leading Harlan Mariachi to its first-ever UIL State advancement, a milestone she describes as unforgettable. She shares her gratitude with her parents, teachers, and peers for their continued support.

Health Careers High School

Yuvan Buchaiahgari is the valedictorian of Health Careers High School and plans to attend Trinity University in San Antonio, where he will major in Biochemistry with the goal of becoming a physician. He demonstrated strong leadership throughout high school as Founder and President of the Hospice Helpers Club, Roman Life Category Leader in Latin Club, and Honors Team Captain for Academic Decathlon.

He credits Dr. Diana Johnston for creating a classroom environment where he could thrive academically while feeling seen and supported as an individual. Buchaiahgari says Northside ISD provided both the resources and community that fueled his success, particularly through Academic Decathlon, which sparked his passion for learning and connection. His favorite memory was celebrating his birthday with teammates at the Academic Decathlon National Competition, a moment that reinforced the deep bonds he built with his peers. He extends sincere thanks to his teachers, mentors, friends, and family for their lasting support.

Ariana Chaudhary, salutatorian of Health Careers High School, will attend Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, where she has been accepted into the highly selective Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME) as she pursues a career as a physician. She has earned numerous prestigious honors, including the Cameron Impact Scholarship, the National Society of High School Scholars 18 Under 18 Award, and recognition as a National Merit Scholar.

A dedicated leader, Chaudhary founded the Neighborhood Health Screening Club and Access to Specialist Knowledge and served as Quaestor of the Latin Club. She credits teacher Kenneth Van Eimeran for his compassion and commitment to others, which helped shape her own path. Chaudhary says her time in Northside ISD provided meaningful academic opportunities and a supportive environment that fostered both personal and academic growth. Among her favorite memories are the friendships and experiences she gained through Latin Club. She expresses deep gratitude to her parents, Paromita Datta and Sohom Chaudhary, and all those who supported her journey.

Holmes High School

Kyra Bertrand is the valedictorian of Holmes High School and plans to attend The University of Texas at San Antonio, where she will major in Nursing and pursue a career as a nurse practitioner. She attended Timberwilde and Linton elementary schools and Ross Middle School.

She credits teacher Sebastian Tugwell for creating a classroom environment filled with encouragement, belonging, and positivity. Bertrand says Northside ISD helped her develop essential skills such as time management, perseverance, and collaboration—qualities she will carry into the healthcare field. One of her favorite memories was celebrating with classmates just before graduation, marking the end of their shared journey. She expresses gratitude to her close friends for making her high school experience meaningful.

Ezri Egts is the salutatorian of Holmes High School and plans to attend Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, where she will major in Biology with the goal of becoming an orthodontist. A former student of Thornton Elementary and Ross Middle School, Egts was a standout leader on campus, serving as Senior Class President, Varsity Tennis Captain, and Editor-in-Chief of the yearbook.

She credits her tennis coach, Michael Garcia, for pushing her to grow as both a leader and an individual. Egts says Northside ISD provided valuable leadership opportunities that helped prepare her for college and her future career. Her favorite memories include participating in homecoming traditions like painting paws and decorating trees—moments that brought the campus community together. She extends heartfelt thanks to her family for their constant encouragement and support.

Jay High School

Elisabeth Marie Montoya is the valedictorian of Jay High School and plans to attend the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, where she will major in 3D Animation and Game Design with the goal of becoming an animator. A former student of Glenn Elementary and Rayburn Middle School, Montoya served as an Animation Program Ambassador and emerged as a leader in her field.

She credits teacher Robert Robles for helping her build confidence and believe in her abilities, both academically and personally. Montoya says Northside ISD provided strong guidance through college readiness support and scholarship opportunities. Her favorite memories include simple moments spent with close friends, which brought joy and meaning to her high school experience. She also expresses appreciation for teacher Mr. Salaiz, whose encouragement helped her grow and succeed.

Ervin Rosas is the salutatorian of Jay High School and plans to attend the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, where he will major in Kinesiology with aspirations of becoming a physical therapist and professional soccer player. A graduate of Fisher Elementary and Rayburn Middle School, Rosas served as Soccer Captain and was a key leader on his team.

He credits his coach, Kevin Poore, for shaping him both on and off the field. Rosas says Northside ISD instilled in him the values of hard work, responsibility, and perseverance through both academics and extracurricular involvement. His favorite memories come from competing in the soccer playoffs, where teamwork and school pride created lasting bonds. He extends his appreciation to Coach Poore and to the teachers and staff who supported him throughout his journey.

Jay Science & Engineering Academy

Lucas Allwein is the valedictorian of the Jay Science & Engineering Academy and plans to attend Texas A&M University, where he will major in Biomedical Engineering with the goal of becoming a physician. He attended Galm Elementary and Luna Middle School and was actively involved in leadership roles, including Scouting BSA Senior Patrol Leader, Orchestra Stage Manager, and Venturing Secretary.

He credits orchestra director Heather Gonzalez for inspiring his passion for music and encouraging growth through perseverance. Allwein says Northside ISD provided both rigorous academics and meaningful extracurricular opportunities that prepared him for future success. His favorite memory was his senior year orchestra UIL performance, where the group earned sweepstakes following a challenging setback the year before. He extends his thanks to his family, teachers, and mentors who supported his journey.

Shuhei Ogasawara is the salutatorian of the Jay Science & Engineering Academy and plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin, where he will major in Aerospace Engineering with the goal of becoming a research and development engineer. A former student of Scarborough Elementary and Folks Middle School, Ogasawara served as Varsity Orchestra Concertmaster and National Honor Society Senior Vice President.

He credits teacher Mike Scully for guiding his early work in science research and helping him develop skills in public speaking and scientific inquiry. Ogasawara says Northside ISD provided a strong sense of community and mentorship that shaped his academic and personal growth. His favorite memories include competing in science fairs at the state and international levels and traveling with orchestra to Los Angeles. He expresses deep gratitude to his friends and mentors who supported him along the way.

Marshall High School

Elise Melynn Casias is the valedictorian of Marshall High School and plans to attend Texas A&M University, where she will major in Biomedical Science with the goal of becoming a pediatric nurse. A graduate of Boone Elementary School, Casias served as Class Treasurer and was deeply involved in both academics and extracurricular activities.

She credits teacher Stacey McDonnough for inspiring her passion for science and supporting her through both academic and personal challenges. Casias says Northside ISD provided a strong foundation for her future through dedicated teachers and consistent encouragement. One of her most memorable experiences was competing at NDA Nationals in Orlando with her dance team, a trip filled with milestones and lasting memories. She extends special thanks to her mother, as well as the educators who have guided her throughout her journey.

Emily Kay Moore is the salutatorian of Marshall High School and plans to attend Rice University in Houston, where she will major in Political Science with the goal of becoming a lawyer. A former student of Bernal Middle School, Moore was an active leader on campus, serving as Class Secretary, Cheer Co-Captain, and Student Ambassador.

She credits teacher Denise Pina for her constant encouragement and support, both in and out of the classroom. Moore says Northside ISD’s specialized law program helped her discover her passion and connect with peers who shared her goals. Her favorite memory was earning first place at the Texas Youth and Government mock trial competition, a defining moment in her high school career. She expresses heartfelt gratitude to her parents and her mock trial team for their unwavering support.

Marshall Law & Medical Services

Cole Koerber is the valedictorian of Marshall Law and Medical Services High School and plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin, where he will major in Human Dimensions of Organizations while pursuing a future in the fire service, coaching, or management. A graduate of Leon Valley Elementary and Rudder Middle School, Koerber held numerous leadership roles, including National Honor Society President, Class President, Tennis Captain, and NISD Ambassador.

He credits teacher Stacey McDonnough for creating an engaging and supportive learning environment. Koerber says Northside ISD provided a broad range of opportunities that helped him build a strong educational foundation and explore multiple career paths. His favorite memory was competing at the state mock trial competition alongside his senior teammates, followed by a celebratory outing that marked the close of their high school journey. He shares his gratitude with the friends and teachers who made his experience meaningful.

Ricardo Alonso is the salutatorian of Marshall Law and Medical Services High School and has accepted an appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where he plans to major in Aerospace Engineering. A former student of May and Wanke elementary schools, and Stinson Middle School, Alonso was an engaged leader, serving as Technical Coordinator for Varsity Choir, President of Rho Kappa, and Vice President of the Science National Honor Society.

He credits teacher Susana Paiz for challenging him academically and helping him grow as a writer and critical thinker. Alonso says Northside ISD’s rigorous coursework, particularly its AP offerings, prepared him for the demands of a military and engineering career. Among his favorite memories are competing in Choir UIL events and earning Row Captain MVP honors during a basketball tournament, experiences that reflect both teamwork and perseverance.

NSITE

Remana Shalabi is the valedictorian of NSITE High School and plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin, where she will major in Data Science with the goal of becoming a data analyst. A graduate of Murnin Elementary and Vale Middle School, Shalabi served as Vice President of the National English Honor Society.

She credits teacher Hong Zhou for pushing her to grow academically and build confidence in her problem-solving abilities. Shalabi says Northside ISD gave her the space and opportunities to discover her strengths and define her path forward. Her favorite memories include time spent with close friends, experiences that brought both joy and motivation throughout high school. She expresses heartfelt thanks to those who supported her throughout her journey.

Emily Luong is the salutatorian of NSITE High School and plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin, where she will major in Computer Science with the goal of becoming a software developer. A former student of Krueger Elementary and Jefferson Middle School, Luong took on several leadership roles, including W.I.N. Crew Executive Producer, Academy Board Chief Decorating Officer, National Honor Society Secretary, and Esports Co-Captain.

She credits her fifth-grade teacher, Mrs. Schoggins, for instilling a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. Luong says Northside ISD—and the NSITE community in particular—provided meaningful opportunities to explore her interests and prepare for her future career. Her favorite memories center on time spent with friends and classmates, moments that defined her high school experience. She extends special thanks to her family and those who motivated her along the way.

O’Connor High School

Travis Bendele, valedictorian of O’Connor High School, will attend UT San Antonio to study Mechanical Engineering with plans to enter the field as a mechanical engineer. He attended Nichols Elementary and Stevenson Middle School before excelling at O’Connor, where he held multiple leadership roles, including President of the Science National Honor Society and Chess Club.

Bendele also credits Walter Meyer as a standout influence, noting his engaging teaching style and ability to bring deeper meaning to mathematics. He says NISD equipped him with both the resources and opportunities—through CTE and AP courses—to jumpstart his college career.

Among his favorite memories is a lighthearted moment spent playing poker with friends after being exempt from a final exam, celebrating the close of the school year together. He thanks his parents, Jennifer and Timothy, along with his teachers, for helping him reach this milestone and prepare for his future at UTSA.

Christian Hubbard, salutatorian of O’Connor High School, plans to pursue a degree in Physics and ultimately become a professor. A product of Los Reyes Elementary and Hector Garcia Middle School, Hubbard served as Secretary of Student 2 Student and distinguished himself as a thoughtful leader on campus.

He credits his junior year Precalculus teacher, Walter Meyer, with deepening his passion for both math and physics. “His way of teaching made me recognize the beauty of math… it became an art,” Hubbard shared. He also points to NISD for helping shape his path, saying the district provided the coursework and guidance that clarified his future goals.

One of his favorite memories comes from competing at the Academic Decathlon state level, where he valued both the challenge and the camaraderie. Hubbard expressed gratitude to his Academic Decathlon coach and Physics C teacher, Aaron Westbrook, as well as his parents, Ulises and Diana Hubbard, for their unwavering support.

Sotomayor High School

Gabriela Maria Vasquez, valedictorian of Sotomayor High School, will attend Texas Tech University in Lubbock to study Psychological Sciences, with the goal of becoming an industrial-organizational psychologist. She attended Scarborough Elementary and Folks Middle School and served in leadership roles including Student Council Secretary and Choir Leadership Team member.

Vasquez credits her fifth-grade teacher, Oliver Marcos, with fostering creativity and creating a classroom environment where students felt seen and supported. She says NISD’s wide range of academic programs ensured she could pursue any interest and build a strong foundation for the future.

Her favorite memory is participating in the TMEA All-State Choir process and performing alongside talented peers. She expresses deep gratitude to her family, friends, and teachers—especially her parents, Jonathan and Amy Vasquez—for their unwavering love and encouragement.

Kathryn Isabella Narte Rettman, salutatorian of Sotomayor High School, plans to attend the University of Oklahoma to study Meteorology/Atmospheric Science and pursue a career as a research meteorologist. A former student of Franklin Elementary and Folks Middle School, Rettman excelled in both academics and competitive events.

She credits teacher Jaylin Von Berg with transforming her perspective on art history, turning it into one of her favorite subjects. Rettman says NISD gave her a strong head start, offering opportunities that both prepared her for college rigor and reduced future costs.

Her proudest memory is advancing to the state level in UIL Spelling and Vocabulary, where she placed second individually. She extends heartfelt thanks to her parents, Charles and Virginia Rettman, for their constant encouragement and support.

Stevens High School

Mattheau Ray Castillo Rendon, valedictorian of Stevens High School, plans to attend the University of California/Davis to major in Biochemistry and pursue a career as a medical examiner. After attending Michael Elementary and being homeschooled for middle school, she returned to NISD and quickly became a campus leader, serving as President of the National Honor Society and Co-Captain of the Speech and Debate Team.

Rendon credits teacher Reyes Castillo for believing in her during a pivotal transition and helping her build confidence. She says NISD teachers inspired both her academic interests and the determination needed to succeed.

Her favorite memory is competing in track during her sophomore year, where she discovered a love for athletics and built lasting friendships. She shares her gratitude with her family—especially her mother—and the Stevens community for shaping her growth and helping her reach this milestone.

Grin Alvarez, salutatorian of Stevens High School, will attend the University of California/ Irvine to study Aerospace Engineering with a flight emphasis. She previously attended Forester Elementary and Vale Middle School and was recognized as a QuestBridge Finalist.

Alvarez credits Colorguard Director Michael Cortes as her most influential mentor, praising his commitment to students’ growth both in and out of the classroom. She says NISD not only prepared her academically through rigorous coursework, but also helped her build valuable professional connections—including a mentorship opportunity connected to NASA.

Her favorite memory is making school history by earning third place at the Texas Colorguard Circuit State Championships. She thanks her teachers, friends, and mentor for their encouragement, noting their support helped her overcome self-doubt and reach this achievement.

Taft High School

Kimberly Pieroni, valedictorian of Taft High School, will attend Brigham Young University in Provo to major in Communication Disorders, with the goal of becoming a speech pathologist. A former student of Hoffmann Elementary and Briscoe Middle School, she excelled both academically and as a leader, serving as Water Polo Captain, Swim Captain, Church Youth Class President, and Community Service Coordinator.

Pieroni credits her second-grade teacher, Melvin Taylor, with inspiring her lifelong love of learning by fostering a welcoming and encouraging classroom. She says NISD challenged her academically while helping her build essential life skills, confidence, and a clear vision for her future.

Her favorite memory is a standout athletic achievement—winning first place in the girls’ 400 freestyle relay at regionals, where her team set both regional and pool records and advanced to state. She thanks her teachers and friends for shaping her journey and gives special appreciation to her parents, Kevin and Kristen Pieroni, for their unwavering support.

Mason Browne, salutatorian of Taft High School, will attend The University of Texas at Austin to study Mathematics, with plans to pursue a career in finance. A graduate of Briscoe Middle School, Browne made his mark at Taft as TRB Front Ensemble Captain, combining academic excellence with leadership in the arts.

He credits his senior-year Economics and Government teacher, Christian Gowen, as his most influential mentor. Browne described Gowen’s classroom as both engaging and supportive, noting his ability to create a positive environment while advocating for his students. Browne says NISD’s advanced academics and access to college-level coursework gave him the tools to confidently transition to higher education.

One of his favorite memories was competing with the band and earning fourth place in percussion at UIL Area Prelims. He extends heartfelt thanks to his parents for supporting his musical journey and to his friends for their constant encouragement and support.

Warren High School

Sofia Garcia-Nunez, valedictorian of Warren High School, will attend Columbia University, majoring in Biomedical Engineering on a pre-med track with aspirations of becoming a physician focused on medical technology. After moving from Brownsville to San Antonio, she quickly became a standout leader, serving as President of both Speech and Debate and the National Honor Society, Lead Attorney for Mock Trial, and a Northside ISD Student Ambassador, while also competing in varsity volleyball.

She credits Dr. Rodriguez as a transformative mentor who taught her that leadership is about lifting others and empowering voices. Garcia-Nunez says NISD fostered an environment where she could dream big and pursue those ambitions with confidence.

Her favorite memory is traveling to Iowa for the National Speech and Debate Tournament, an experience that reinforced the value of perseverance. She expresses heartfelt gratitude to her family, as well as to Mrs. Crumbly and Mrs. Robinson for inspiring her early love of learning, and looks ahead to a future rooted in service and innovation.

Omran Abdelqader, salutatorian of Warren High School, will also attend Columbia University as part of the Undergraduate Research Scholars Program, majoring in Neuroscience on a pre-med track. A former student of Raba Elementary and Jordan Middle School, he was a leader on campus, serving as Speech and Debate Vice President, NHS Parliamentarian, and BridgeUSA President.

He credits Dr. Dariela Rodriguez with helping him find and trust his voice, guiding him to success at both state and national levels in competition. Abdelqader says NISD played a critical role in his growth as an ESL student, giving him the confidence and skills needed to thrive academically and pursue a career in healthcare.

His favorite memory is competing at the National Speech and Debate Tournament, where he realized the impact of his voice on a national stage. He extends deep gratitude to his parents for their sacrifices and constant support.