Spring semester has quickly passed and the Briggs School has announced this year's graduating class and valedictorians.
Briggs' valedictorian is Ali Whitney, Cole Whitney's child. Ali attended Briggs for eight years, participating in track, volleyball and academic teams, and also serving as cheer captain and student body president for three years. She was named a state qualifier for academic awards in the humanities and a top tier in history.
“I would like to thank Mrs. [Lori] Mr. Galvin, you always make math fun. [Connie] Cisco always helped me understand things in every class, even when he was busy. [Haley] Davenport has always been a friend of mine and has helped me with robotics,” Ali said. “I would also like to thank everyone who helped make my eight enjoyable years at Briggs possible.”
Ali's favorite subjects are math and science, and outside of school his activities include hunting, fishing, and horseback riding.
Spencer Fields, the grandson of John and Cynthia Fields and the child of Juanita Fields, will serve as the class celebrant. After attending Briggs for the past nine years, Spencer has participated in student council, band, and cross country. His favorite subject is reading, and outside of school he enjoys hatchet throwing, flipping, exercising, video games, and playing with friends.
“The most fun I had at Briggs School was in seventh and eighth grade,” Spencer said. “I've made some great, reliable friends.”
While attending Briggs, Spencer received a perfect attendance award, student of the month award, and was on the honor roll.
“We are extremely proud to represent these students as Briggs' valedictorian and salutatorian,” Briggs Vice Principal Tara Feely said. “They are amazing kids and we are grateful to have been a part of their education. We know they will go on to accomplish great things in the future.”
After leaving Briggs, Ali and Spencer hope to attend Tahlequah High School. After graduating, Ali hopes to attend Oklahoma State University and become a doctor or veterinarian. Spencer has not decided on a career path at this time.
“I'm looking forward to going to high school because I get to meet new people, try new activities, and think about career options,” Spencer said. “It's going to be a new and exciting part of my life.”
Ali said she is excited to take more challenging classes at THS, as well as make new friends and share new experiences with her best friend, Addie Davis.
Feary said the district strives to make sure students feel not only ready for high school, but also ready for the future.
Spencer said he believes the Briggs School taught him how to help others, to treat people as he would like to be treated, and how to be a great person. Like Spencer, Ali was taught at school to be kind and respectful, even in difficult times, he said.
“Briggs also taught me many lessons that I will use later in life,” Ali said.
Feary said the district is committed to each student's future by ensuring each student has a solid foundation in core subjects, developing problem-solving and critical thinking skills, and helping develop positive character traits. He said there was.
“We hope that during their time at Briggs they felt supported in a family atmosphere and with their best interests at heart,” Ms Feeley said. “I hope they take away the love of learning because education is a lifelong journey.”
