The Class of 2024 is proud to recognize the following Senior Spotlights:

• Javier Mendoza

• Brendon Newman

• Kenzie Atwood

Javier Mendoza

Javier Mendoza embodies the spirit of perseverance, dedication, and a genuine passion for both academics and extracurricular activities. Throughout his high school journey, Javier actively engaged in a myriad of pursuits that not only shaped his character but also enriched the lives of those around him.

One of Javier's fondest memories revolves around his time in art class, where he discovered the joy of self-expression and creativity. The art room became a place for forging lasting connections and making cherished memories. Javier's commitment to football, wrestling, and baseball showcased his tenacity on the field, culminating in the unforgettable moment when he scored a remarkable 69-yard touchdown—a testament to his athleticism and team spirit.

Beyond sports, Javier dedicated time to Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), where he honed his skills and laid the foundation for his future ambitions. With aspirations of becoming a stockbroker, Javier has set his sights on a career in finance.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Javier found fulfillment in helping his church community, exemplifying a commitment to service and compassion. Making the Honor Roll and overcoming challenges in building friendships stand as testaments to Javier's academic resilience and social growth during his high school years.

Outside of the academic realm, Javier's interests extend to working out and playing sports, showcasing his commitment to a healthy lifestyle. A unique aspect of Javier is his lack of a middle name, a fun fact that adds a touch of individuality to his profile.

As Javier looks toward the future, he contemplates the decision between pursuing higher education and entering the workforce, confident that his experiences and lessons learned will guide him on this next chapter. His favorite book, "The Bible," the movie "Se7en," and the song "Timeless Interlude," underscore his diverse tastes and appreciation for meaningful content.

In closing, Javier offers a piece of advice to incoming freshmen—encouraging them to savor every moment and discover their own sources of happiness. A heartfelt shoutout goes to God and his family for their unwavering support. Javier leaves behind a legacy of authenticity, resilience, and a reminder to future generations to embrace their true selves and find joy in their unique journeys.

Brendan Newman

Introducing Brendan Newman, a standout senior at Tri-Valley High School. Brendan has excelled both academically and athletically during his time here, earning himself a place on the B Honor Roll and showcasing his talents on the football field. But beyond his achievements, Brendan's vibrant personality and dedication to making the most of his high school experience have made him a popular figure among his peers.

One of Brendan's most memorable experiences was in his Multimedia class, where he found joy in the camaraderie and creativity of his classmates. He cherishes the memories of his junior season on the football team, particularly the electrifying moment when he returned an interception for a touchdown. Brendan's leadership and performance on the field didn't go unnoticed, as he earned a spot on the all-conference team during his senior year.

Outside of academics and athletics, Brendan has demonstrated his commitment to community service by helping clean up his town after storm damages and advocating for keeping the environment clean. His passion for giving back and making a positive impact is truly commendable.

As Brendan prepares to embark on the next chapter of his journey at Dakota State University, he is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Whether he's pursuing his love for gaming, creating music, or simply living his best life, there's no doubt that Brendan will continue to shine bright.

To Brendan's family, friends, and teachers who have supported him every step of the way, he extends his heartfelt gratitude. To future generations of students, Brendan offers this advice: make every moment count, because high school flies by faster than you can imagine. As Brendan bids farewell to his high school years, his legacy of passion, determination, and infectious enthusiasm will continue to inspire us all.

Kenzie Atwood

Kenzie Atwood, known affectionately as Jazzy, has left an indelible mark on Tri-Valley High School during her four years as a student. With a stellar GPA of 4.0, Kenzie has consistently excelled academically, earning her place on the Distinguished Honor Roll for the past four years and securing the role of co-valedictorian for the class of 2024. Her dedication to academic excellence is further demonstrated through her involvement as the secretary of the National Honor Society.

Beyond the classroom, Kenzie has been an active participant in numerous extracurricular activities. She has showcased her leadership skills as the President of the TVHS Theater Department and as the Secretary of the National Honor Society. Her passion for the arts is reflected in her four-time recognition as the outstanding actor in the One Act Play.

Kenzie's commitment extends to the community, where she has been a Sunday school teacher at West Nidaros for three years. Her involvement in community service projects, including leading a successful initiative for Operation Christmas Child with NHS, highlights her dedication to making a positive impact beyond the school walls.

In the realm of sports, Kenzie's triumphant moment came in her senior year when the volleyball team defeated McCook, marking a historic victory for the team and fostering a sense of unity among the players. This experience epitomizes Kenzie's belief in teamwork and mutual support.

Looking ahead, Kenzie's future is bright. She plans to attend Augustana to major in Biology for pre-med, with aspirations to become a doctor in orthopedics or internal medicine. Her immediate plans after graduation involve a memorable Art Club trip to Greece and Paris, followed by the commencement of her freshman year in the fall of 2024.

As she reflects on her high school journey, Kenzie offers valuable advice to incoming freshmen: "Water what waters you." This mantra encourages others to prioritize activities and relationships that bring genuine happiness and fulfillment. Kenzie's infectious spirit, academic prowess, and community-minded approach have undoubtedly left an enduring legacy at Tri-Valley High School.

In closing, Kenzie extends her gratitude to her parents, little brother Parker, and best friend Brookelyn Stieben for their unwavering support. She also expresses appreciation for Mr. Breitkreutz, whose guidance helped her discover her passion for science. Kenzie's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, community involvement, and the pursuit of one's passions, inspiring her peers to follow suit in making the most of their high school experience.