Class of 2021 graduates - Congratulations A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO THE - Rio Rancho Observer
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A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO THE Congratulations Class of 2021 graduates
Table of contents From the superintendent
2
Cleveland High School ........................................... 3-8, 19 Class of 2021,
• The first graduating class, 10 years ago ....... 3, 19
G
raduation is an opportu-
• Valedictorian & salutatorian ........................ 7 nity to reflect on accom-
plishments and to look to
• Photos from the year .................................... 8 the future.
Obviously, this was anything but a
Independence High School .................................... 9 typical year. Nevertheless, I reject the
idea of it being a totally “lost” year.
Rio Rancho Cyber Academy ................................. 10 Yes, it is true that many important
Rio Rancho High School ....................................... 11-15 events and activities did not take
place, and teaching and learning
• Letter from the principal ............................. 11 were dramatically different. There
• Valedictorian ............................................... 13 were certainly disappointments and
• Salutatorians ............................................... 14-15 hard or sad losses to bear.
Forrest Gump said, “Life is like
• Senior Superlatives ..................................... 14-15 a box of chocolates” — and “Life
is like a fistful of Sour Patch Kids.” it completely define you. You have
The ASK Academy ................................................ 16-18 There were plenty of sour mo- lived through uncharted, frustrating
ments, but perhaps there is a great- and oppressive times. Be proud that
er appreciation today for things we you stayed the course, discovered
previously took for granted. new interests, developed effective
Important lessons were learned, ways to cope and very importantly,
especially in terms of what we graduated from high school.
Editor’s note: Rio Rancho Public school yearbook staff for the first time.
Schools could not provide the Observer This special section also features The
value and deem to be most impor- While circumstances were often
with senior photos, as many seniors did ASK Academy, a public charter school tant in our lives. The pandemic beyond your control, you were in
not have them taken in this pandemic in Rio Rancho but not part of RRPS. The presented roadblocks, setbacks and control of how you responded. The
school year. So, we are only able to list school was able to provide senior photos, problems to solve, but the Class decision each of you made was to
the names of this year’s graduates. but the valedictorian and salutatorian of 2021 faced those challenges move forward and to take the next
We invited principals to submit letters had not been determined by press time. through perseverance and resilience
to graduates, in addition to Superinten- The Observer staff congratulates
steps in life.
— two skills that are absolutely Congratulations, Class of 2021
dent Sue Cleveland’s annual letter. Rio the Class of 2021. You’ve grasped the essential in life.
Rancho High School principal Ryan achievement of a high school diploma — you are an amazing class!
Kettler was the only one to do so, with the despite the disruptions, worries and
The pandemic experience will
other RRPS principals saving their re- uncertainties of COVID-19. We look for- long be remembered and will Dr. V. Sue Cleveland
marks for the big event: commencement. ward to seeing all the other great things definitely influence and shape all Superintendent
We also included items submitted by you can achieve! who experienced it, but don’t let Rio Rancho Public Schools
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After 10 years, 1st CHS graduating class still memorable
3
By Gary Herron Cleveland High
Staff writer School 2011
gherron@rrobserver.com graduates applaud
T
he 385 students who the conclusion of
made up the first gradu- the processional into
ating class of V. Sue what was then Santa
Cleveland High School Ana Star Center,
let out a resounding cheer accom- now the Rio Rancho
panied by surge of confetti and Events Center.
the blaring of horns.
Then they moved their tassels
from right to left, ending their
abbreviated but noteworthy time File photo
at the city’s newest high school in
May 2011. tive energy from Day One.” “They embraced it and they cused to be competitive,” he said. 6A,” Affentranger said.
“You are collectively the first Credit the school’s only princi- decided they were going to lay “…We wanted to be as successful “I thought he was crazy with
Storm to move on from Cleve- pal, Scott Affentranger. the foundation,” said longtime and/or competitive in everything the Storm,” Salinas said, chuck-
land, revealing to the world a “For me, though, the biggest Activities Director Stacy Salinas. we did as our neighbor — and I ling. “And now I can’t imagine us
bright, clear sky,” said salutato- thing was we could have gone “Even in senior meetings (now), think that drove us… being anything else.”
rian Michael Bradley, who soon one or two ways: They could I talk about the Class of 2011, “We have more kids who are Affentranger said he was
was headed to New Mexico Tech have been upset about leaving what they laid forward; we have on the All-State team each and initially hoping to get UCLA’s
in Socorro. Rio Rancho High School, or they a unified look at graduation. every year, but that 2011 group colors, “But (Sue Cleveland’s
“(The Class of 2011) was so could have been excited,” Af- We’re very simple; we don’t do — just like athletics — set the late husband) Jim Cleveland, a
motivated, so spirited and really fentranger recalled. “As a result the (honorary) cords. They didn’t standard,” he said. diehard Carolina Panthers fan,
wanted to make that school their of being excited, I always say they want anybody to stand out more As for the mascot, “There brought this (scheme) over. I
own,” said Superintendent Sue put us on the map.” than the others and that came were a lot of different animals, thought, ‘Hey, this is great,’ but
Cleveland, whose name the school When CHS opened, it had three from them.” and I kept saying to the board and at the time, you couldn’t buy that
board selected when it named the classes: juniors, sophomores and Affentranger said he felt pres- Dr. Cleveland, ‘I want a differ- color. It was a heck of a chal-
new school prior to its summer freshmen. All seniors that year were sure from Day One. ent color scheme and a different
2009 opening. “It had really posi- left at Rio Rancho High School. “Everything we did was fo- mascot than anybody in (Class) See 10 years - 19
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4
Cleveland High School
Annalysia Nevaeh Acosta Kai Alexander Blilie Cameron J. Cowden Aspen N. Famiglietta Jason C. Gray
Aalijah Briana Alarcon Rylie Jeanette Bonbrake Robert E. Cox Autumn A. Famiglietta Hannah Elise Greathouse
Destinee N. Alarcon Seth Micah Bouton Rachel DorothyKay Cronkrite Giavanna Angele Farrell Isaac R. Griego
Abigail S. Alarid Ashley Nichole Bradshaw Jordan Nicole Cross Laila Faiqu Fauzi Hayden Quinn Grinstead
Isaiah R. Alderete D’Andre Isaiah Breezee Klarissa B. Cummings Kai K. Ferreira Haileigh J. Grubbs
Cullen R. Allee Kyle Harold Brotton Ronald E. Dancy Sarah J. Fischer Austin W. Guardino
Shae M. Allee Jacob Anthony Brown Charly Marie Darnell Corbin J. Forster Natalie M. Guire
Genevieve Elaine Allen Kelly Decherea Brown Aidan J. Dausey Alexia Mercedes Montoya Foster Nickolas Anthony Gutierrez
Kaya Jaden Allen Aiden J. Burke Jeff A. Davison Gregory Alan Foster Trinity F. Gutierrez
Benjamin S. Altman Jazmin Esmeralda Calderon Uriel De Anda Elyce J. Foxley Sahira Gutierrez Chavez
Sarah E. Anaya Morgan K. Campos Nathaniel R.K. De Carlo Jonathan Hubert Ray Fragua Jr. Madelynn M. Hagenloh
Annika Marie Anderson Sabriel G. Campos Parker Davis Dean Makila T. Furcap Alexandria L. Hannold
Gabriel Sterling Angel Ariah Noelle Candelaria Jenna R. DeBourge Leslie Celine Gabaldon Haylee Marie Hardman
Devin Juaquin Aragon Aaron D. Canizales Emily Autumn-Rose Decker Tyler B. Gabaldon David J. Harper
Julian David Aragon Joseph Capone Braelyn G. Deem Melissa Erin Gabrys Nathan Thomas Hasberry
Grace P. Arango Jordann Caroline Carpenter Trevon M. Dennard Leilani Lynn Gachupin Courtney L. Hayden
Ashley D. Archuleta Alia Tianna Carrillo Sophia G. DerGregorian Isha Denise Galaz Aguirre Stephanie Michelle Hedden
Eric Antonio Archuleta Jeramiah Castañeda Dylan DeVault Derik Donovan Gallegos Ryan Arthur Henderson
Grace Ann Armendariz Katie M. Castillo Nicolas George DiBisceglie Justin Lee Gallegos Traigh D. Henington
Steven L. Armijo Isabel Aiyanna Cato Matthew C. Didier Vanessa Diana Alicia Gallegos Shawn W. Herman
Jacob A. Armstrong Dylan R. Cavnar Shawn P. Didier Jaycie Mae Gandert Alejandro Javier Hernandez
Gabriel C. Auge Andreas David Chacon McGee Angelo J. Dimas Andrew M. Garcia Kimberly Hernandez-Becerril
Joseph Francisco Avila Markus D. Chacon McGee Caitlin Eileen Dinsmore Blaze A. Garcia Alexia Marie Herrera
Andrea Nicole Baca Chantal Chacon Salas Michael Madrid Dixon Edgar Garcia Breana N. Herrera
Dylan Matthew Baca Abrielle Kristy Chavez Jalin Mariposa Dorman Eric C. Garcia Lorenzo Herrera
Nicolas Anastacio Baca Alianna K. Chavez Atalaya Isabelle Dorsey Ethan Nathanial Garcia Jay A. Hicks
Demetrius Dominic Banks Brisa J. Chavez Hondo W. Dorsey Gabriella Rayanne Garcia Troy Jonthan Alexander Hillmeyer
Andrew Thomas Barela Carmen Elena Chavez Tristan Matthew Downey James Aaron Garcia Alyssa B. Hinckley
Jason E. Baron Shingleton Elijah Joshua Chavez Graciela R. Dozal Joshua R. Garcia Shae Ashlee Hindmarsh
Mariano E. Barreras Haley R. Chavez James A. Duarte Ortiz Kenneth G. Garcia Christian Mateo Hoffman
Mikayla Joy Barrette Kaitlin H. Chavez Katherine Rosalie Durnil Kiara Elizabeth Garcia Aidan Homan
Elijah Daniel Barrios Mia Mercier Chavez Jacob Carl Dye Madeline Gabrielle Garcia Hennessey M. Honaker
Evelyn M. Bashaw Valentino Cruz Chavez Clyde G. Edgin Princess Symphony Garcia Emily R. Hong
Joey T. Bashaw Joseph Michael Chavez Jr. Dillon Elias Edinger Maia I. Garcia Barajas Samuel E. Hooper
Korbin C. Bauer Anika S. Chenier Alexander J. Edwards Brenna Michele Gchachu Elesse Coren Hoover
Robert Darnell Beal III Montana Corin Chester Ashleigh Dawn Edwards Autumn B. Glenn Julianna E. Hoover
Chi Shi Kee Bedonie Diego A. Chiang Julian R. Elizondo Dakota Reeves Gonzales Christina Maria Horner
Sofia Nizhoni Begaye Abirami Adaikkammai Ja’lyn Temple Bailey Ellison Dominick M. Gonzales Brandon Jermayne Howell
Talitha Jane Behrens Chidambaram Estevan S. Encinias Evan R. Gonzales Tyler M. Howell
Nicole Bejarano Blake C. Cobb Leianna A. Endris Gabriel E. Gonzales Keira L. Howley
Sofia E. Beker Brayden C. Collier Jonas C. Engstrom Isaiah C. Gonzales Zeriah M. Humelsine
Anisa J. Benavidez Jacob L. Colon Guzman Anton Karr Eriacho-Daukei Jacob Jon Gonzales Wyatt Matthew Hunter
Lorenzo J. Benavidez Graciela Arely Contreras Yasmine Esparza Jennifer Lynette Gonzales Solana Yasmin Hurtado
Kaori Cimon Bennett Maxieli Contreras Sanchez Damion J. Espinoza Julian A. Gonzales Dayne Richard Ice
Gabriella Trinidad Berenger Adrianna Regina Cordova Makenna Frances Faith Esquibel Ezekiel Andrew Gonzales Lopez Olivia Nevaeh Inclan
Aurora J. Bergom Marivelle Rita Cordova Kaden X. Esser Aiza Brianna Gonzalez Rufina R. Isackson
Analeise M. Bernal Hannah Jean Coronado Raul Manuel Estrada Naomi K. Gonzalez Darian Ivey
David James Bethany Trent K. Couch Mark Nelson Evans Abigail Rose Goodmacher Elizabeth Celeste Iwanczyk
5
Cleveland High School
Jourdynn Renay Jacoby Trenton Drake Kester Carlos E. Leal Aaron-Melvin L. Loveless Annalicia Marie Martinez
Casandra A. Jacquez Hanna Joan Kiess Ingrid E. Leal Michaela Dee Lovell Ayden C. Martinez
Arianna C. Jamerson Travon Marcus Kimbrough Jack R. Leblanc Connor Scott Luby Craig Henry Martinez
Isaiah A. Jaramillo Omaria Tkhai King Cesar David Lechuga Damian D. Lucero Diego A. Martinez
Sebastian Jaramillo Reagan M. King Mia Rose Lee Justin M. Lucero Gabriel Benjamin Martinez
Erick L. Jasso Solis Jessica P. Knox Kyrstyn Q. Lehmann Savannah M. Lucero Jordyn Nicole Martinez
Jadyn L’Ray Jeantete-Gonzales Nicholas A. Kossmann Kole J. Leisey Ursulito U. Lucero Marissa C. Martinez
Kathryn Grace Jennings Dawn R. Kromeke Brooklyn Marie Leivas Jayden LeeAnne Lucky Michael M. Martinez
Tyler James Jenson Kiana N. Kualapai Gabriel A. Lepori Lillian I. Luke Shalyn H. Martinez
Austin Jet Sebastian M. Kush Alexander Thomas Linn Cylissa I. MacInnis Vicente Martinez
Zyan Jason Jojola Sarah C. LaBarbera Bernadette Ann Jolene Alexa Rae Madueno Benito Emiliano Martinez-
Cathleen D. Jolly Raycarlo Laboy Ramirez Lockhart Izaak Zachary Maestas Heredia IV
Michael Joseph Emiliano Joseph Lahi Sophia R. Lombardo Logan Jesse Manuel Colin R. Maryboy
Jackson Ellis Joyner Aidan Andrew Lam Caleb J. Lopes Estevan Luis Manzanares Ian Delos Mathis
Victoria L. Juarez Bianca L. Lambson Sabrina A. Losey Cory Solomon Marquez Bree Theresa McCash
Darrick Amir Kabsy Adam Stewart Lammens Briana Nicole Lovato Felicia A. Marquez Joanna J. McChriston
Harrison Reid Kaspar Hannah Paige Lammens Destiny L. Lovato Mercedez Skye Marquez Alayna M. McClannan
Dillon M. Kauffman Aaron Scott Lancaster Jazzmyn Renee Lovato Marissa J. Marshall Megan Lindsey McCoy
Garrett C. Keene Maria Delores Landavazo Lucas Tomás Lovato Moriah Elizabeth Marshall Wayne C. McNatt
Kasey Tyler Kendall Jordyn Lapp Alex G. Lovato-Admire Alejandro Tomas Martinez Benjamin S. McNichols
Jason P. Kern Tasha-Thuong Aksarachai Le Elijah M. Love Angelina Corrine Martinez Lillie Kristine McQuerry
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6
Cleveland High School
Daniel J. Meade-Callahan Antonio L. Pacheco Christopher D. Romero Joshua R. Stricklin Jalen Taliferro Washington
Rayann Lee Medina Dean I. Pacheco Katelynn Isabella Romero Alexyss J. Suazo Clayton Wendell Watson III
Arrianna L. Mendoza Isaiah A. Pacheco Raymond M. Romero Kaitlyn M. Sullivan Aiden G. Watt
Audrey L. Mendoza Lauren Mia Pacheco Gabriella A. Rose Daniel L. Swanson Chelsea C. Weber
Brianna N. Mendoza Charlene R. Palacio Adam Jared Rounsville Dillon M. Swanson Sarah Rose Weeber
Patrick M. Mendoza Zachary P. Palomino Noah Nikolas Roybal Dylan K. Swartz Katrina Leann Whitezell
Jacob Michael Michnuk-Camden Estevan Davíd Pargas Sierra J. Rush Emily Sweitzer Cameron Jaden Williams
Taylor O. Mick-Keck Xandria L. Pattin Briaunna Elyse Russell Sara Janelle Tajiboy Tatiana Nicole Williams
Amanda Nicole Mock Jared David Peña Madison Jean Ryan Benjamin C. Tarry Trevor C. Williams
Kayla N. Monroy Dayne R. Pengelly Crystal I. Sabado John Wesley Taylor Justin J. Wilson
Isabella L. Montoya Victoria A. Perez Ariana R. Salaz Caeley M. Teague Danielle Reanne Winchester
Jasmine Ana Olga Montoya Dylan Rochelle Irene Peterson Shawntae Monique Salazar Avi Thomas Savannah Marie Winn
Laila Tamae Iree Montoya Nicolas J. Petitt Joseph William Salls Christopher B. Thomas Andrew Clayton Witty
Xavier E. Montoya Emily Ellizabeth Phillips Analisa Jorden Sanchez Hanale P. Thomas Rylie L. Wolfe
Frank Andrew Montoya III Kylie Rene Phillips Isabella Maria Sanchez Katelyn Nichole Thomas Evan Daniel Wood
Kaden J. Moore Kenosha Marie Powdrell Joseph F. Sanchez Joshua Aaron Thompson Sean T. Woods
Dean Dominic Morales Mya R. Powell Joshua L. Sanchez Micheal Sean Thompson Luke Crandall Wysong
Isaac R. Morgan Jaden R. Puente Michael Gene Sanchez III Jasmine Bahozho Toledo Aaron M. Yazza Jr.
Reagan Noel Moritomo Anna Laura Quintana Trevor Ryan Sanders Anabel Liberty Marie Torino Cameron Benjamin-Lee Yip
Timothy P. Morlock Augustine Marcos Quintana Damien Esteban Sandoval Abigail Angel Torres Amia Janae Younger
Maya Rosa Mueller Aaliyah Jaylynn Emily Rael Elizabeth R. Sandoval Felicea Ann Torres Alexandria Cleotilde Zapatos
Marcos A. Munoz Ariana E. Rael Santiago Anthony Sandoval Karen Torres Emily Anne Zebick
George Tiger Muñoz III Nathias Alexander Rael Michael Abel Sandoval Jr. Olivia Beth Torrez Mikaela D. Ziegler
Patrick Joseph Munoz-Gilbert Jr. Alessandra Creede Ramirez Eston Wade Satterlee Ailana Megan Toya
Alyssa Myers
Sarah Amberlea Naham
Christian A. Ramirez
Dayree J. Ramirez
Bryce George Schuman
David J. Scott-Murphy
Anaiyla Kateri Toya
Daniel A. Trillo
Cleveland HS
Meadow Rayne Najera
Emi K. Nakasone
Victor Eduardo Ramirez
Sergio Ramos
Zachary Jackson Segotta
Andres V. Segura
Jaydn W. Trowbridge
Destiny Mariah Trujillo Class of 2021
Juliette Skye Napier Shawn Riley Ramos Jordyn Lee Segura Nathaniel A. Trujillo
Adriana Jo Naranjo Ricardo Rangel-Valencia Brandie Rebecca Sena Damacio Blas Ulibarri Class song:
Angelique Esperanza Navarro Jaylynn Marie Rasco Diego O. Serna Urrutia Geri Tymerah Ulibarri “Godspeed”
Mathew Todd Nelson Ryan Thomas Ratajczak Brooklyn Renea Shelley Jayden Rebecca Unale
Randy Nieto Eryn JoeyElle Renteria Evan Elijah Shepard Isabelle Rose Valdez
by Frank Ocean
Jacob C. Nikolai Angela Y. Reza Nathaniel W. Shinners-Medina Cindy M. Valenzuela Gonzalez Class quote:
Brian Christopher Nobes Chase Codey Richards Brenden Garrett Shires Jadelyn Renee Van Sweden
Alexa R. Noel Alyssa Alease Richmond Rylee Jaye Shufelt Kiara Monet Varona “Well, that didn’t
Emma Leigh Noll Madison L. Riley Chad Slanker Tanya Daniela Velazquez go as planned.” —
Alexis M. Nunez Cesar Angel Rivas Amanda Lynn Smith Gavin W. Vermilion
Joseph Richard O’Hara Aroon I. Rivera Brielle K. Smith Gabriel L. Verswijver-Salazar
Unknown
Christina Lorraine Olivarez David E. Rivera Isaiah Robert Francis Smith Derek Vidal Class flower:
Valana Sophia Oliver Maximus Marcus Rivera Khrystian D’Loriz Smith Kevin A. Vidana Leon
Jacqueline B. Olivieri Isaac J. Roacho Jade C. Spaulding-Smith Tanisha A. Vigil White rose
Victor James Oroz Alexis Marie Robertson Ian S. Spencer Alyssa Kaitlyn Vigil-Gonzalez
Natalie N. Ortega Michael D. Robinson Tabitha Jeanne Sprouse Sebastian J. Vilela
Trey Samuel Ortega Bryan James Robles Camille V. St. Andre Javier Atrau Villegas
Dominick Orlando Ortiz Deanna Cassandra Rocha Joshua Devin Stewart Madelyn Walker
Melanie Victoria Otero Arleigh V. Romero Lukas Wayne Stewart Hunter William Wallace
Mikaela Jordan Owens Autumn Jane Romero Brandon David Stivers Kevin Wangchuk
7
Cleveland High School
Valedictorian: Adam Rounsville Salutatorian: Melanie Otero
What does being the vale- of hard work. High school has also What does being the What advice
dictorian mean to you? I would taught me about the importance salutatorian mean to would you give to
first like to say that I am beyond of helping others, whether it be you? Being the salutato- incoming freshmen?
honored to be able to represent through serving others or tutoring rian of such a large high My biggest advice
V. Sue Cleveland High School’s fellow students. school demonstrates my is to take freshman
Class of 2021. I am very proud of What advice would you give to commitment to educa- year seriously. Enjoy
my fellow seniors for weathering incoming freshmen? I would ad- tion. It is an honor to be your first year of high
this past year and making the very vise all incoming freshmen to work recognized for all of the school, but don’t forget
best of the situation put before us. their very hardest in high school. effort and time I’ve put you are there to learn
I have striven to be the valedicto- Hard work in high school will into school over the last and grow academi-
rian of my graduating class even provide you with so many more op- four years. cally. You don’t want
before my freshman year of high portunities in college and beyond. What are your plans to be frantically trying
school. I have worked very hard, The slight reduction in free time as for the future? In the fall to bring up your GPA
have taken numerous AP classes a result of taking more challenging of 2021, I will be attending junior year or have to
and have worked to keep my grades as high as classes will pay great dividends as one prepares Abilene Christian University, where spend hundreds of dollars on credit
possible. Being the valedictorian for the Class for college and entering the workforce. I will major in Animal Science with recovery for failing an easy class.
of 2021 really has shown me that hard work and Who and/or what allowed you to succeed a track in Pre-Veterinary Medicine. I Who and/or what allowed you
dedication do indeed pay off. academically? My family has been integral to plan to continue my education after to succeed academically? I was able
What are your plans for the future? I my academic success. They have always been undergrad by going into veterinary to succeed academically with the
plan to attend Brigham Young University in so supportive of my goals and aspirations, and school and obtaining a Doctor of Vet- support of my family and boyfriend.
Provo, Utah, to major in finance and computer they have always been willing to help me be my erinary Medicine degree. They encouraged me to always do my
science. I then plan on earning an MBA from best. Without their support and love, I know I How are you coping with the best and pushed me toward my goals.
Harvard University and founding my own would not be in the place I am today. pandemic? Trusting in God has al- God gave me strength and persever-
technology company. What do you hope is different about the lowed me to live without fear and has ance to keep moving forward, even
How are you coping with the pandemic? I world in 30 years? I hope that inequality in the given me peace through the uncer- when things got tough.
have been able to spend a lot of quality time with world can be decreased in the next 30 years. tainty. Despite losing my senior year What do you hope is different
my family as a result of the pandemic, which The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the to the pandemic and not having things about the world in 30 years? In 30
has greatly helped me cope with some of the growing gap between the wealthy and poor in go as planned, I’ve tried to remind years, I hope the world is more united
other, less desirable aspects of the COVID-19 our country and throughout the world, so I hope myself that ultimately God’s plan is and people are more loving. It is
pandemic. I have also been able to cope with the that this problem can be rectified in the future. greater than mine. heartbreaking to see how much hate
pandemic through learning new skills, such as What is something you’ll miss about high What important lessons have there is and how terribly people treat
computer programming and electronics repair. school? I will miss all of my friends that I have you learned, in or outside of school? one another.
What important lessons have you made in the past 18 years I have been in Rio I’ve learned that it’s okay to need What is something you’ll miss
learned, in or outside of school? High school Rancho. I will also miss the amazing teachers help, whether that be academically or about high school? The friendships
has taught me that hard work is the key to suc- I have been able to learn from during my time emotionally. I used to be terrified of I’ve made are what I’ll miss the most.
cess. Though talent and aptitude for particular at V. Sue Cleveland High School. I will cherish reaching out to people when I needed I’ve been able to meet some really
sports, school subjects or skills are helpful in the memories I have made and the people I have it, but then I realized that I can’t do amazing people and build close rela-
developing oneself, nothing can take the place met along my high school journey. everything on my own. tionships with them.
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0001515171-01 0001449082-01
8
Cleveland High School
h o to s c o u r te sy of the
P
v e la n d H ig h School
Cle
yearbook staff
9
Independence High School
Aaliyah Atkinson Isaac Gonzales Jonathan Lopez-Sanchez Angel G. Pina Gabriel N. Townley
Jada Baca Makayla Graves Dominque R. Lovato Matthew R. Quimayousie Jude J. Uzueta-Galindo
Tamaralynn Bailar Calvin Green Danny Martinez Steven A. Quintana Aspen Vigil
Gene Chavez Damien Gutierrez Alicia C. Mason Xzavier J. Romero Mia U. Whitson
Adriana Cole Jeremiah Haney Dyllan Medina Benjamin J. Salazar
Cameo Davis Dawson Holmes Mireya Morales Chantel Sanchez
Haley Diaz Jordyn Jaramillo McCoy I. Parker Megan Sanchez
Isaac Dorsil Kaid Kronbeck Mallery J. Parks Bethany R. Sandoval Note: Independence High
Isabela M. Doyle Augustine Lockhart Mia A. Peake Allison H. Sego School doesn’t recognize salu-
Aileen Espinoza Christian Lopez Abril Pena Hernandez Alicia H. Tovar tatorians or valedictorians.
Independence
High School
Class of 2021
Class song:
“Congratulations” by
Post Malone (radio
version)
Class quote:
“It is what it is.”
—Unknown
Class flower:
White rose
10
Rio Rancho Cyber Academy
Markus Avalos
Ava Baca
Willow Bridgers
Seoyoung Kim
Allison Long
Ava Metoyer
Luis Riley
Ethan Sandoval
Lorielle Tapia
Salutatorian: Wyatt Nolen
What does being the valedictorian
Justin Darnell Wyatt Nolen Holly Tarr or salutatorian mean to you?
Natasha Garcia Jade O’Neill Aidan Trujillo Being salutatorian shows me how
James Keene Daniel Otero Gabriel Turner much effort I put into my work up to
Joseph Keene Baden Peterman this point. I think it’s less the place-
Ira Khan Isaiah Reifschneider ment in class, but more that I can sit
down in the future to see that, even
through a world crisis, I was able to
persevere and accomplish something.
What are your plans for the fu-
ture? I plan to go to the University of
New Mexico and seek out an electrical
engineering degree. Afterwards, I plan
to get a master’s degree in the same
subject.
tremely satisfying feeling that you
How are you coping with the pan- should strive for.
demic? Rio Rancho Cyber Academy
was a hybrid learning environment, Who and/or what allowed you to
which means that, most of the time, I succeed academically? My drive for
was already at home doing my school completion was my biggest motivation.
work. I don’t think the pandemic af- I always strived to be done as fast as
fected my school life that much, but possible so I could relax afterward.
Rio Rancho Cyber Academy Class of 2021 my social life definitely took a hit. I
found comfort in an online community What do you hope is different
and have made friends there to cope about the world in 30 years? I hope
Class song: “Overcomer” by Mandisa with the feeling of separation from the to see a more effective education
outside world. system. I feel most of school is just
Class quote: “Some have a story; some have a What important lessons have
going through the motions, and less
about learning the material. Perhaps
legacy; we had a pandemic. TOP THAT!” you learned, in or outside of school? in the future, the world could strive to
“Work harder to work less.” It’s a change that.
— Unknown phrase I came up with while attending
RRCA. I’ve learned that if you work What is something you’ll miss
Class flower: Hydrangea harder at the beginning and do your
work right, you can do what you want
about high school? I’ll miss most of
my teachers. I’ve had many teachers
in the future. come and go over the course of my
stay at Rio Rancho Cyber Academy,
What advice would you give to and I enjoyed working with most of
incoming freshmen? Don’t procras- them. I hope the ones who are still
tinate. Do your assignments the day working stay as long as they can, and
you get them if you can. Getting that the ones that have retired or moved on
weight off your shoulders is an ex- can enjoy their free time!
Note: The Observer was unable to obtain a questionnaire or photo from Ira
Khan, valedictorian of the Rio Rancho Cyber Academy Class of 2021.11
Rio Rancho High School
To the Class of 2021, Cicero A. Alaniz Johanna V. Bergeron Meki A. Cruz
Y
Maliki Alderete Amber R. Betz Lauren E. Curtis
ou have made it! Luca B. Alexander Molly A. Billingsley Charisma M. Cutshall
The past four Spencer C. Allman Ryan T. Blair Gabriel Daniels
years may have Angelo M. Almanzar Daija M. Blue-Sky Andrew N. Davis
seemed like an Ana I. Almuina Ledezma AnneMarie Bowles Madison K. Davis
eternity, yet they passed in
Callahan M. Anderson Keith N. Brewer Mason L. Dawes
a blink of an eye. You have
had good times, not-so-good Avrilee Anderson Joshua M. Brom Riley P. Dean-Butt
times, faced trials and tribula- Chloe C. Anderson Marissa S. Bullock Annika R. DeBernardi
tions, and you have overcome Tristan K. Anderson Lamar J. Bynum Alexandrea V. Decatur-Benally
them all. There have been late Lesly Angel Santana Mystique Cadena Kamren R. Decker
nights studying, stress over Tyler J. Antal Rhea L. Caillier Virginia Grace A. DeMarco
tests, celebrations for ac- Jerimiah Anzures Melina I. Calderon Nick A. Di Pomazio
complishment and good times you are to the lives of those Adriana M. Archuleta Sabrina A. Cambridge Salvador Diaz IV
with friends and classmates. you meet; how important you Orlando Arenivar Ruiz Tyler J. Campbell Clayton S. Dixon
You have lived through a can be to the people you may Tahlia R. Armentrout Rylee E. Campbell Kaylee L. Dodson
pandemic, which has altered never even dream of. There Ezra Armijo Lexia K. Campos Shayla V. Dominguez
your high school experience. is something of yourself that
Edgar A. Arreola Mendez Jr. Talisa Canales Angelo C. Dominguez
As you look back on the last you leave at every meeting
with another person.” Every Tatiana L. Arrieola Chloe E. Canfield Daniel Dominguez Jr.
four years, find the good and
hold it in your memory for- interaction you have with any- Patricio Arroyo Casillas Sydney F. Carlisle Jazmine M. Dominguez
ever. High school was a short one you come in contact with Nathan E. Arroyos Arianna I. Carlos Adam M. Donaldson
time in your life; no need has an impact on that person. Alexandra M. Ayala Danyelle R. Carney Julian D. Door-Rodriguez
to remember the negative. Make the most of those in- Dominic M. Baca Hailey R. Carpenter Elijah R. Duran
Instead relish the positive. teractions, each and every one. Elexis R. Baca Joseph Casady Zachary W. Eash
There has been and will Again, your voice matters. I Ramon E. Baca Miles F. Castillo Giron Kayla M. Ebert
always be more than enough implore you to use it positively Shauni B. Backus Avery Castro Dunbar Rebecca E. Edmondson
unfairness, injustice and hot- for encouragement and to add Carter J. Backus Joseph A. Cave Jason El-Nasser
button political and social to the lives of others. Haylee M. Backus Heidi A. Chadwick Miloslav Eminger Goetz
topics you don’t agree with. At Rio Rancho High Adrian A. Baez Orozco Brett O. Champoux Gabriel J. Erickson
You can choose to let those School, we like to say, “Once
Ella G. Bagley Logan J. Chapman Jennifer S. Escarcega
things weigh heavily on your a Ram, always a Ram.” These
are not just words. They repre- Kyla R. Bakken Ambrose V. Charcoal Sara Espinoza
shoulders or you can choose
to use your voice to make a sent the family that you have Ileana J. Baldonado De’Shawn R. Chavez Quentin D. Everett
difference. been part of the last four years Aaron A. Balicat Julian Chavez Calissa D. Fafard
You see, you are the future and will continue to be part of. Kirsten L. Banwart-Leppke Marcus R. Chavez Angelina C. Farello
and your voice matters. We are proud of you, your Jesse A. Barbour Bridget R. Chlastawa Erik B. Farnlacher II
Change starts with you. You accomplishments and look Jarod A. Barlow Adam D. Chrisman Ryann A. Faulhaber
are the next generation of forward to all the great things Hayley Baron Jackson M. Cialkowski Alexis R. Felix
community leaders, health- you will do. Congratulations, Aime G. Barranco Chanez Milan A. Ciddio Logan A. Felix
care workers, first respond- Class of 2021! Well done; you Adriz L. Baxa Madeline J. Clark Adryenne H. Fernandez
ers, military servicemen and deserve it. Racer W. Beckett William P. Concha Jayden C. Ferran
women, tech industry work- Justice A. Beebe Izel Conejo Elijah Figueroa
ers, educators and many other Adrianna L. Begay Ashlee J. Cordova Natalie A. Filkins
professions which are too
Serena J. Belleau Mario R. Cordova Jackson G. Fischer
numerous to list.
Don’t forget about your Cesar I. Bencomo Palomino Tyler D. Corlis Vanessa Flores
interactions with others. Fred Julianna E. Benedetto Cody D. Cottle Samantha D. Flores
Rogers said, “If you could Ryan Kettler Zachary Benedict Porter J. Covey Isaiah Flores
only sense how important Rio Rancho High School principal Jaydan M. Bennett Hailey S. Cruickshank Chad K. Forgey12
Rio Rancho High School
Kara G. Foutz Skyy D. Griego Taylor C. Kennedy Brandon M. Martinez Alyssa D. Nevarez
Elizabeth R. Fowler Antonio M. Griego Keith G. Kent Logan G. Martinez Ryan Nguyen
Thomas J. Freund Selean Griego Payne E. Kent Darius Martinez Sofia Nocua Moreno
Hannah R. Friedland Tyler A. Guerrero Iesha M. Kirven Hailey E. Martinez Christopher A. Norkus Jr.
Lauren B. Fry Angelina S. Gurule Cody A. Komadina Jhoselin Martinez Tatiana J. O’Brien
Sean W. Fullam Nicholas A. Gutowski Austin N. Ladd Jordan E. Martinez Zoe E. Orona
Abigail E. Galan Hannah J. Hady Aireonna L. Lansa Kayla K. Martinez Antonio M. Ortega
Ashton R. Galarneau Kyle J. Hernandez Justin LaPlante Lynniah L. Martinez Noah F. Ortega
Angelica Y. Gamboa Matthew A. Hernandez Angelina T. Lara Marcelino L. Martinez Jessica Ortiz
Juan Antonio Gamboa-Gandarilla Micah I. Hernandez Jordan D. Larios Marissa E. Martinez Sabrina S. Ortiz
Phillip R. Garcia Gerardo A. Hernandez Gonzalez Angelina Larocco Samantha Martinez Grace N. Pacheco
Aaliyah B. Garcia Lauryn M. Herrera Jackson I. Larrabee Samantha R. Martinez Athena R. Paguio
Adrian A. Garcia Damon C. Hess Nicholas J. Larranaga Sophia L. Martinez Olin E. Pakkala
Anthony P. Garcia Jr. Aidan J. Hess Hannity B. Laswell Timothy D. Martinez Ainsley A. Palmer
Cody C. Garcia London A. Hiatt Sofia A. Lau Apollo C. Mata Danny W. Parsons
Isaias Garcia Claudia J. Hickox Jenavieve S. Leech Jonathan R. Mather Liyah Paul
Jashawn C. Garcia Joslynn M. Hicks Astrid Y. Leos-Hernandez Taylor R. Matthews Amaya J. Payne
Javier J. Garcia Symphany M. Hilborn Edgar Levine Jr. David M. McAneney Jhaevon M. Payne
Jessica M. Garcia Dylan Z. Hise Jared H. Lindsey Ryan A. McEvoy Michaela N. Peever
Liliana L. Garcia Ronald D. Hodnett Jr. Kelly C. Linsday Isaac R. McGehee Richard I. Pena Jr
Noel Garcia Maisey W. Hoenig Preston J. Linson Lauryn E. McKinley Jasper Pennington
Savanna L. Garcia Shaiden W. Hogue Harmonee M. Lisa Bentley McNab Damon J. Perea
Leslie Garcia-Moreno Tessa K. Holderman Levi O. Long Jada L. McSparren Tomas R. Perea
Ryan C. Gardiner Kaitlyn E. Honaberger Caitlyn C. Longbottom Morgan J. Meek Donovan A. Perez
Jaden L. Garduno Odessa L. Horseson Octavio Lopez-Orozco Ethan D. Meier John T. Petersin
Natalia Garza-Flores Joshua D. Howes Ashley G. Lozano Vianni Mejias-Archibald Arianna C. Petitto
Rhianna N. Genco Triston Hronich Kayla M. Lozoya Valerie Mendoza-Gonzalez Eliza R. Phillips
Emily A. Getchell Preston K. Hughes A’ja E. Lucero Joselyne Meraz Kendall M. Phillips
Johnathan M. Giese Shyla R. Hunter Alexxus J. Lucero Jaidevin L. Messenger Ziya E. Pleasant
Mary K. Giese Autumn T. Huntington Christian R. Lucero Isaac J. Miller Alec C. Poccia
Nadia L. Gil Nicola R. Ibarra Jonet N. Lucero Alexandra K. Monroy Vanessa M. Prado
Antonia C. Gilbert Hector H. Ibarra III Xavier A. Lucero Julia L. Montoya Makayla A. Price
Kellie R. Gilpatrick Natalie K. Ilgenstein Yasmin T. Lucero Kaley T. Montoya Jesus A. Prieto
Caitlin M. Goff Amaris J. Irvin Dennis J. Lujan Madison G. Montoya Noah B. Qiu
Michael A. Goff Liam O. Isom Thomas B. Lujan Jr. Obadiah Montoya Zoe L. Quintana
Zazil M. Gomez Kameron M. Ives Felicity A. Luna Carson N. Moody Santiago A. Rael
Carlos E. Gomez Larry J. Jackson III Connor D. Mac Neil Joshua T. Moore Elizabeth Raiola
Gabriel A. Gonzales Isaac I. Jacobo Adriana N. Macias Skyler L. Moore Isaac J. Ramirez
Israel A. Gonzales Ariana D. Jarvis Angel K. Macias Edgar G. Morales Julian E. Ramirez
Jacob J. Gonzales Joseph A. Jasnoch Victoria A. Macias Caden S. Moreland Malaya R. Ramos
Josiah C. Gonzales Amaris N. Jimenez Alysia Madrid-Bond Jake M. Muniz Michael R. Rangel
Zyruss Gonzalez Raeleen A. Jimenez Hayden D. Maes Tyler J. Murphy Garrett R. Rede I
Shaylin M. Goodwin Santa Lucia Jiron Ninoshka A. Maisonet Lajune M. Murphy Lucero Rendon-Jurado
Adrian M. Gorman Aries J. Johnson Jared J. Mandaus Autumn Myerscough Robert I. Rico
Faith N. Gose Brigham S. Johnson Zyon M. Manzanares Michael R. Najar Duncan J. Riech
Scarlett R. Gregg Cooper J. Jones Cebastian A. Marquez Kiara N. Nanez David A. Rios
Darrius Gregory Hokule’a E. Kau Darren T. Martin Ezequiel A. Nelson Alexa R. Rivera
Brianna M. Gresham Gabriel N. Keith Amanda L. Martinez Spencer G. Nelson Lilyana I. Roberto13
Rio Rancho High School
Delisa L. Rodriguez
Crystal A. Rodriguez
Elijah J. Smith
Stuart Smith
Florian Villanueva
Joyce G. Villegas Valedictorian: Sumi Shrestha
What does being the figure out who you are
Molly O. Rodwell Michal M. Smouse Guadalupe Villicana
Linus Rohde Yuttichai E. Sommala Mckayla Vo valedictorian mean to and what your future as-
Anthony I. Romero Mason R. Spears Chase A. Waite you? To me, it’s more pirations may be. Don’t
than just claiming the waste time being ner-
Eric A. Romero Sage C. Starr Sophia Waldron
title of “highest GPA” vous about joining a new
Jose A. Romero Abigail G. Stelter Jordan C. Weber in the Class of 2021. club or taking a hard AP
Naomi A. Romero Robert Stephenson Kelly Westfall It’s proving to myself class. It may be difficult
Nathaniel M. Romero Ramona L. Stockton Courtney B. Whetten that if I put my mind to and awkward to step out
Travis S. Rose Kayden N. Strength Devi M. White something, I can achieve of your comfort zone
Trinity K. Rose Tyler J. Sunstrom Jason T. Wiberg great things. Being the at first, but at the end of
Kenny Rougemont Jr. Colt D. Sussex-Uphold Grace C. Williams valedictorian also means the day, exploration and
Francisco Y. Rubio III Miarose Sutherland Hayden A. Wilson I have the opportunity learning will help you
Savana T. Rubio Sara N. Tafoya Savanna M. Wing to share my knowledge and expe- figure out what your passions are.
Vance C. Rudolph Savannah B. Tafoya Brooke A. Wiseley riences with others so I can help Who and/or what allowed you
Natalie L. Rushing Christina M. Tafuro Garrett S. Wondra them reach their own goals. to succeed academically? I wouldn’t
Cameron R. Russom Teresa Tamulewicz I Olivia N. Wood What are your plans for the have been able to accomplish this
future? I wish to serve my com- without the support from my teach-
Shayla A. Saavedra Elizabeth N. Tanner Anisa S. Yarnes
munity by becoming a physician ers, family and peers. Without them,
Aliyah J. Saiz Daniel M. Taylor Hailey E. Yates or surgeon. My first step toward I would not have been able to get to
Teresita M. Salas Antonio J. Tenorio Logan S. Zachary this goal is to begin attending the where I am today. Thank you for be-
Antonio C. Salazar Ashley L. Thomas Francisco J. Zamarron-Aguilar University of New Mexico BA/MD lieving in me! :) Additionally, I didn’t
Jerome M. Salazar Isabella F. Thomas Jade E. Zamora program this fall and to complete a go into high school thinking I would
Anwar Y. Salinas-Galdean Kara A. Thompson Joselyn K. Zavala major in biology and a double minor be the valedictorian, but whenever I
Anastasia A. Samuel Hunter C. Tirone Tyler A. Zimmerman in psychology and music. took a class, I was always intrigued
Alyssa R. Sanchez Lane C. Toledo Jacob W. Zirpel How are you coping with the by the subject. Despite failing some
Dominic D. Sanchez Ethan J. Tolley pandemic? At first it was a bit dif- tests and going through bouts of con-
Haylie R. Sanchez
Jesus E. Sanchez
Alexis M. Torres
Yahir A. Torres Jr.
Rio Rancho ficult with all the different changes
and having to stay home almost all the
fusion, I was still eager to learn and I
think this is what helped me succeed.
Kylie L. Sanchez Michael Trone High School time. I missed being with my friends
and sometimes felt overwhelmed. Be-
What do you hope is different
about the world in 30 years? In
Melena C. Sando
Samantha N. Santos Payola
Alex B. Trujillo
Andrew B. Trujillo Class of 2021 ing able to continue my previous ac-
tivities virtually, like volunteer work,
30 years, I hope to see our com-
munities grow closer together and
Joseph L. Sarica Caitlyn A. Trujillo Class song: “Wherever I really helped me stay positive. Now, become more supportive of one
Sierra S. Sartorius Ethan Trujillo go” by Hannah Montana I feel more adjusted and I believe I another. I hope to see a society that
Oskar A. Schmidt Xtopher P. Trujillo learned more about myself and skills I is more inclusive, peaceful and safe
Ashlee Schreiber Kathleen R. Unsworth Class quote: “May you will need in college and beyond. for all. Whether it’s during times of
Alexandra T. Schrimsher Annika Urry always remember to What important lessons have crisis or joy, I wish to see all com-
Emiliano J. Scott-Balderas Brenden V. Valencia enjoy the road, especially you learned, in or outside of munity members willing to help
Andrew T. Searle Mikayla A. Valencia when it is a hard one.” school? I think perseverance is the and listen to one another so our
Isabella S. Sedillo Victoria Valencia most important lesson I learned. society as a whole can flourish.
Dylan D. Serrano Santanna R. Vallejos
— Kobe Bryant Whether it was in school or any other What is something you’ll miss
Lawrence I. Serrano Makayla Vanderbeck Class flower: Sunflower aspect of my life, perseverance and about high school? I will miss the
determination are what have helped people the most. I made a ton of
Joseph D. Shafer Joshua K. Vawter
me reach my goals, regardless of the friends and got to work with amaz-
Christian J. Sharpnack Ventura R. Velasquez obstacles I faced. I learned that if I ing teachers/mentors in my classes,
Alexander Shaw Alvaro E. Velazquez stuck to something, I would find a Key Club, choir and so much more.
Sumi Shrestha Bryanna A. Vest way to get to my final target. Being able to do cool and memo-
Adam R. Sisneros Matthew A. Vigil What advice would you give to rable activities with them was the
Severo J. Sisneros Taylor A. Vigil incoming freshmen? Get out and highlight of my high school career
Anthony M. Smith Maurie A. Villalobos explore! High school is when you and what I will miss the most.14
Rio Rancho High School
Co-salutatorian: Adam Donaldson
What does being the salu- cross country. And even though I
Senior Superlatives
tatorian mean to you? It is was hesitant at first, I am so glad
a great honor. I’ve worked so I did it. I made several really
hard for these past four years: good friends, I learned to work
taking several AP classes, and for something bigger than my-
maintaining straight A’s, while self, I made varsity and this year,
balancing cross country and we were second place at state! I
track and field, National Honor wouldn’t have gotten to be a part
Society, as well as two after- of any of that if I didn’t get out
school jobs. All of this required of my comfort zone.
so much time, effort and Who and/or what allowed
determination. It is an honor you to succeed academically? Most Google Meet Camera-Shy: Ezra Armijo and Zach Benedict
for all my effort to be recognized and to be I want to thank my parents, Coach Sal
named co-salutatorian for Rio Rancho High Gonzales and my teachers for everything
School. they’ve done for me. They taught me how
What are your plans for the future? I to work hard and believe in myself. I was
plan to attend college at New Mexico State raised to be extremely self-motivated, hard-
University and double major in mechani- working and determined. Whether it be
cal and electrical engineering. After earn- in academics, sports or really any kind of
ing my bachelor’s degree in both, I plan on work, I’m always willing to do what it takes
applying to MIT, where I hope to go for my to get the job done and to do it right. I put
graduate studies. everything I’ve got into everything I do. You
How are you coping with the pandem- don’t have to be smart to be valedictorian or
ic? It’s been hard being isolated and kept salutatorian (though it does help). I believe Most Likely to Go Pro: Joseph Cave and Tessa Holderman
away from my friends, but I was lucky to grades mostly reflect effort, not just intel-
have cross country, track and field and piano ligence. If you’re willing to work hard, you
to help keep me connected to other people can do amazing things.
and blow off steam. Playing the piano has What do you hope is different about the
been very therapeutic for me. And I’m lucky world in 30 years? I hope that the world
to have such a supportive family, coach and can recover from all the hate, division and
group of friends. violence that seems to be getting worse and
What important lessons have you worse every day. I hope my kids don’t have
learned, in or outside of school? Over to grow up in fear of a virus, or the govern-
these last few years, and especially during ment, or a war. I hope coronavirus will just
the pandemic, I have learned to trust God. be a bad memory they hear about from their
When times are tough, or things aren’t parents and in textbooks.
going how I want them to, I have learned What is something you’ll miss about Most Likely to Survive a Pandemic: Natalie Rushing & Cody Komadina
to trust God’s plan for me, and know that high school? I will definitely miss high
whatever happens, happens because He school sports. I love running with my team.
wants it to. One of my favorite scriptures I have so many good memories from cross
is Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans country and track and field. I’m going to
I have for you, plans to prosper you, and miss racing with my teammates, with Coach
not to harm you, plans to give you hope Gonzales screaming at us to do our job.
and a future.” Before every single race, our coach had us
What advice would you give to incom- say, “I love my team; no one is tougher than
ing freshmen? I would advise incoming me!” At first, I only said it because he told
freshmen to not be afraid to push them- us to, but I have come to mean every word.
selves, try new things and get out of their And I’ll be leaving that behind when I go
comfort zone. My first year of high school, off to college, but I’ll cherish those memo-
I had friends that really wanted me to try ries and the lessons I’ve learned forever. Most Likely to Be Instagram Influencers: Zyon Manzanares & Talisa Canales15
Rio Rancho High School
Senior Superlatives Co-salutatorian: Yuttichai Eric Sommala What does being the salutatorian of the opportunities you don’t take.
mean to you? Having the honor of I hate to break it to you, but most
being named a co-salutatorian for the friends are temporary. The experi-
class of 2021 is one I take with great ences you gain from these opportu-
pride; these past two years have truly nities are more valuable in the long
tested us in our ability to adapt and run. Do things of your accord …
focus on our goals, and for us to have it’s your journey.
succeeded in these times is a testament Who and/or what allowed you
to the tenacity of our class. It shows to succeed academically? Before I
you what a passion for learning allows list a series of individuals who have
you to do, and I am grateful to end off been instrumental to my growth as
my four years with this distinction. a student and leader, I attribute my
What are your plans for the future? I recently success to my love of learning; when you find joy
committed to the University of Connecticut as a in solving those head-scratchers or understanding
molecular and cell biology major in their honors a concept that many gawk at, that feeling is one
program. Hopefully, within the next four years, I that keeps me going through the challenges and
Best Quarantine Partners: Cameron Russom & Edgar Levine am able to narrow down my career focus to some- struggles of a rigorous course load. There’s an
thing within medicine, public health or health-care overly long list of mentors, supporters and teach-
administration. I can state with certainty that I plan ers who have been fundamental to my personal
to be involved with service organizations wherever growth, but I’d like to specifically acknowledge
I go; serving as a Key Clubber and working with Ray Rodriguez, Bill Duncan, Christine Carson,
Kiwanis have been the highlight of my high school Leslie and Robert Keeney, Bruce Smith, Doreen
career, and I would love to continue that well into Abney, Heather Lovick-Tolley and Karin Church
my professional career. for, one, putting up with me and, two, providing
How are you coping with the pandemic? me with invaluable tokens of knowledge.
The pandemic definitely threw many uncertain- What do you hope is different about the
ties my way, but I was able to get into the groove world in 30 years? Thirty years from now, I
quickly. Although there were many disruptions, I hope to be in a world where there is a greater
think it’s also important to recognize the free- amount of cooperation, cohesion and support for
doms and positive aspects that this time has one another domestically and internationally. In
opened up for many of us. Those hobbies that we the present, we find ourselves so bogged down
all put off for months were finally attended to; I in the issues and we forget about our common
can now say I am more versed in politics and a goals. We find ourselves so polarized and di-
better painter. vided; so by 2050, I hope that dynamics between
What important lessons have you learned, us all change or, at the least, head toward a posi-
in or outside of school? The most important tive direction where we value differing opinions
lesson I’ve learned is that you need to make and stances and are able to find more common
your own judgments and set your own limits. ground to best suit all of our needs.
Although there is value to taking advice and What is something you’ll miss about high
suggestions, someone else’s view should not be school? The highlight of my high school career
the deciding factor for your path. You’ll miss a has been Key Club; I know I will probably never
Most Likely to Star on “The Tonight Show”: lot of opportunities viewing it from the lens of find such an experience similar to Key Club. For
Sophia Waldron & John Petersin someone else. Take opportunities as they come. the past four years, I have volunteered at ser-
Breach your comfort zone. You never know until vice and cultural events across the state of New
lative s” you’ve tried. Mexico, served at an international level as the
“Senior Super e What advice would you give to incoming district governor, recruited hundreds of members
courtesy of th ool freshmen? It’s your high school experience. into the organization I love most and met some
igh Sch
Rio Rancho H aff Never let the words of others dictate your jour- amazing people throughout the world. It’s sad to
yearbook st ney; take that hard AP class, join that unpopular know that four years have gone by so fast, and
club and so on and so forth. You miss out on all now, it’s time to move onto new opportunities.16
The ASK Academy
Hayden Jordan Krish Louis John Alize
Baker Baldwin Bhakta C de Baca Chavez Cloe-Puepke
Dominic Benjamin Chase Emma Hannah Quoya
D’Onofrio Dilts Dunaway Easton Flory Gable-Lairsey
Joseph Daniel Guadalupe Samantha Serenity Jordan
Gallegos V. Garcia Guzman Hautz Hays Johnson17
The ASK Academy
Alexandra Taylor Shelby Taylor Hunter Sebastian
Juarez Katt Kent-Willams Kirk Lane LeDoux
Hannah Andy Tristan Galicia Skylar Ashton
Levandowski Lopez McMains Monforte Morales Mullikin
Margo Ryan Marian Jasmyn Cheyenne Jacob
Petersen Petmecky Qiqieh Rangel Sanchez Sandusky18
The ASK Academy
Jacques Garrett
St. Onge Templeton
ASK Charter
The ASK Academy is a science, technology, engi-
neering, and mathematics (STEM) pipeline for New
Mexico scholars; however, our vision statement is
“Building relationships to create self-directed learn-
ers.” Notice the vision statement says nothing about
STEM. Here at ASK, we know that before a learner
will care for what you believe, they must first believe
that you care. Therefore, a very important ingredient
to a healthy learning environment is relationships,
regardless of what you teach. Building real, meaning-
ful relationships with scholars, managers, members of
our governing council, parents, and STEM community
partners is the most important step toward meeting our
mission at The ASK Academy.
At ASK, our scholars learn in traditional ways, but Courtesy photo (above) Argen duncan/Observer (below)
also through a project-based setting. This allows them Above, The ASK Academy Class of 2021 celebrates their “Senior Sunrise” last August. Below, The ASK Academy campus, with
to work in a real-world atmosphere where evaluat- the main building shown here, is on Sundt Road.
ing occurs continuously as they work together toward
a solution to a given problem. The project manager
(teacher) is the facilitator in a learning environ-
ment where scholars construct their own knowledge
structured around New Mexico Common Core State
Standards. We apply these standards to engineering,
design, and biomedical science problems allowing
the learner to develop relevant, authentic skills, and
knowledge in these STEM fields.
ASK’s curriculum design not only builds authentic
STEM skills and knowledge, but also readies them to
perform well on the standardized assessments for state
graduation and post-secondary entry. The hands-on
learning experiences facilitated at ASK engages the
learning into the learning process and is improving the
retention of the lessons.
We are The ASK Academy!
Source: theaskacademy.org10 years Salinas said her daughter Amy,
among the Rams slated to move schools,
didn’t want to go to Cleveland. She went
19
From page - 1 anyway and graduated in 2011.
lenge, but what was cool about it, we Flash forward to 2021: Amy mar-
could call it ‘electric blue.’” ried a Rio Rancho High School soccer
“Nothing like that happens by player, Andrew Hinkle, and she coaches
accident,” Cleveland noted. “The and teaches at Cleveland.
work (Affentranger) and Stacy put “There were so many memories,
in, and the coaches; the coaches were from our first football game and setting
appointed early and working at the traditions to making sure we left our
mid-high — every single thing was mark,” Amy Hinkle said. “I remember
planned and organized. It was a lot of dancing to ‘Time of Our Lives’ by
hard work.” the Black Eyed Peas and going into a
The next time you go into the Thun- shoot-out almost every single soccer
derdome gymnasium at CHS, check out game my senior year.
the words to the school’s fight song — “My favorite memory, though, is
an impossible task. just seeing the school spirit at every
“Scott came in and said, ‘We’re single event. We were trying to make contact with them today: (football)
gonna put our fight song on the gym Cleveland special, and it sure was!” coach Kirk Potter, (wrestling) coach
wall, get it painted on the gym wall.’ Alumnus Rob Gallagher, also Cory Anderson, (volleyball) coach Ben
The kids go, ‘Uh-uh,’ and we’re like, hesitant about switching schools, said Wallis and Wade Dubose and — may
‘Why uh-uh? Every school has the fight it’s “been a very fast but great 10 years she rest In peace — Lori Sturgess, one
song in the gym,’” Salinas recalled. since graduating from CHS. of my absolute favorites.”
The students told her they took pride “I can still sing the fight song word Gallagher also played tennis and
in knowing the words by memory. for word; it will never leave me, I don’t was a National Honor Society member.
The 2011 class president was Domi- think!” he said. “(I)n the end, I decided “I was a part of the student coun- File photos
nic Martinez, and the student body pres- to go via a loophole in the transfer cil, and we probably met three to Starting from top left and moving clockwise: Perla Olivas
ident was Angelica Romero, Salinas re- rules; I’m glad I did because it was a four days with admin, planning the was “Captain Awesome” when she walked the stage at
called. Addison Himmelberger was the great experience, but also I really did identity of CHS and how those first the then-Santa Ana Star Center as part of the Cleveland
valedictorian. enjoy my time at RRHS. few weeks were gonna go,” he said. High School Class of 2011; salutatorian Michael Bradley,
The Class of 2011 featured 22 Na- “I had so many favorite teachers and “It was amazing the trust the adminis- left, and valedictorian Addison Himmelberger wait for
tional Honor Society members; 32 administrators — they all were truly tration put in us and really gave us the the processional to begin in May 2011; Class of 2011
grads received diplomas of distinction; great and cared about the wellbeing freedom to make this school our own. President Dominic Martinez and Vice President Cheyenne
140 graduates received a combined 271 and success of the students,” Gallagher … Those two years (at CHS) gave me Taylor say a few final words to their classmates; a graduate
scholarships. Three members planned to continued. “A few do come to mind, a solid foundation in my life, and I gets a hug from a teacher; and an unidentified graduate
enlist in the armed forces. though, and it’s no surprise I stay in am forever grateful.” wears a flower lei for commencement in 2011.You can also read
