The 'Eagle Times' Student Newspaper

Tradition overrode with co-valedictorians

By Jill Lira

May 10, 2006

In 50 years, after all the state championships, school records and first place finishes disappear, one aspect that will remain the same is a good education. Getting a quality education in high school will follow students for the rest of their lives. The best testament for a person receiving an outstanding education is being named valedictorian. It is a very prestigious honor.

The tradition is to have one valedictorian and one salutatorian, but for Valerie Roberson and Joshua Ruby, this tradition got knocked out by their hard work. This year, Roberson and Ruby will serve as co-valedictorians.

As of December, Roberson had achieved a cumulative 4.112 GPA. She said she has taken classes that have made her push the envelope and succeed. After high school, she will further her education at Washburn University where she will major in mass media.

Being deemed a co-valedictorian meant a lot to Roberson because she had felt her diligent work had paid off.

"I am honored to be recognized for this accomplishment. Both Josh and I have worked extremely hard to get to where we are today," Roberson commented.

Throughout high school, Roberson found her mother inspired her the most.

"My mom has been the most influential. She has taught me to always believe in myself, how to be a better person, and provided endless love and friendship," Roberson stated.

In her four years of high school, Roberson found English IV to be the most challenging class.

"English IV was by far the most challenging course in high school. The material we are required to learn was overwhelming at first. Mrs. Naylor expected the best of us at all times and would not settle for less than she knew we were capable of," explained Roberson.

Being a co-valedictorian means Roberson has to deliver a speech at the graduation ceremony. She does not feel nervous about the actual speech but about her emotions overtaking her.

"I don't think it will be challenging to speak as much as it will be to fight off my emotions. I am not nervous about giving my speech, but I am nervous about having to talk to so many of my classmates for the last time," said Roberson.

As of December, Ruby had attained a 4.105 cumulative GPA. Taking most of the science and math classes Silver Lake High School has to offer, he has decided to study Aerospace Engineering at Wichita State University. After that, Ruby intends to get a cooperative educational job with NASA. He eventually would like to work at NASA.

Ruby also felt honored to serve as co-valedictorian with Roberson.

"I feel honored to be able to say I am a valedictorian of my class, and I am glad that I have been able to reach this dream of mine," Ruby explained.

Taking certain speech classes in high school has helped Ruby. He does not feel it will be a challenge to speak in front of his peers.

"I think I will be a little nervous. I believe I will have the experience I need to give a good speech," Ruby commented.

During high school, Ruby has looked to the people surrounding him for inspiration.

"I can't say that only one person has really influenced me because I have been influenced by everyone. My parents, teachers, and fellow classmates have all played significant roles in my life," said Ruby.

Ruby agreed with Roberson about English IV being the most difficult.

"My most challenging course in high school would have to be English. This is even more true after reaching senior English. The essays alone are a killer, and I just hate long essays," stated Ruby.

Graduation is on May 21. To hear what these co-valedictorians are going to speak about, Ruby feels you have to be there to find out.