Not everyone can be the valedictorian.

“It has taken a lot to get to where I am now. I have always just been naturally good in school, so I haven’t really sacrificed much because there has never been a time where I have not been on top of my school work and gotten good grades,” senior Olivia Ford, valedictorian, said.

Ford has always been a multi-sport student-athlete, too.

“Sometimes, I have some homework, but I prioritize my school work in school so most of the time I get everything done during school. However when I do have homework on nights I also have sports, I just make sure I get it all done when I get home so I do not really focus on anything else after games or practices,” Ford said.
Ford is not just good at getting her work done, she is also an impactful student during class.

“Olivia stands out because she always has an opinion on something. She does not necessarily always speak right away, but it is clear that whenever something is said, she is thinking about it and how to question it. She always asks ‘Why?’ to everything she learns,” Mr. Jeremy Runge, social studies teacher, said.

Ford excels in every class she takes and sports she plays.

“It is clear that Olivia is not like other students because she always questions everything no matter what. She talks with her face more than anything, and even though she may not always speak up in the moment, she takes time to really digest what others are saying and creates her own opinion on it,” Mrs. Iana Allen, English teacher, said.

On top of being a picture-perfect student athlete, Ford has an important social life with many friends along with participating in clubs.

“I like hanging out with my friends a lot, and they have definitely supported me throughout my whole career as I do for them. My friends and I have a very close bond. We are always rooting for each other. I am glad to have them supporting me,” Ford said.

Ford is a great example for underclassmen wanting inspiration.

“One piece of advice I would give to underclassmen is just prioritizing your school work because if you get it done during school you won’t have homework to do at home and you won’t get behind in your work, athletics or social life. Also, just enjoy your time in high school because it goes by fast and you will make so many lifelong memories,” Ford said.