Class profiles: Grady High School

When Grady's seven graduating seniors were asked to list their accomplishments, they formed a quorum, held a meeting, presented the case, and decided against it.

"We don't need bragging rights," senior Cody Poncho said.

Joni Lampley, a decorated athlete, said, "We're here for school. We don't want to try and appear better than anyone."

Administrative assistant Kathy Edwards said the consensus exemplifies the camaraderie among Grady seniors. "Some of them had a lot of accomplishments, but some had none," Edwards said. "Our valedictorian for example, just works and goes to school. The kids didn't feel it was a fair representation of the group."

When we asked the school's principal, Miles Mitchell, to pick out a song title that represented each graduating senior, he turned the job over to the students.

"We all got together and pulled out our I-pods and cell phones and started Googling songs and making suggestions for each other," said senior Alisa Aguilar.

Grady Municipal School superintendent Ted Trice said the school's mission is to create productive and contributing members of society. Part of that mission includes treating them like adults and allowing them self-determination, Edwards said.

We asked Grady's seniors to respond to some questions and tell us which song best describes them.

Alisa Aguilar

Why is the song you chose important to you?

I have a daughter who is 1 years old and the song makes me think of her. I'm finishing high school, which is something a lot of single moms don't accomplish. I'm going to school for phlebotomy and I feel like I'm someone my daughter will be able to look up to.

Song: "She's Somebody's Hero" by Jamie O'Neal

Tye Gallagher (valedictorian)

Do you think Obamacare is constitutional?

I think Obamacare is entirely unconstitutional. Obamacare not only violates the rights of the people as free consumers, but also violates the rights of producers through its many stipulations on business owners and insurance providers.

Song: "Never too Late" by Three Days Grace

Cody Poncho

Tell me about your life philosophy and your hero.

I believe in living life to the fullest, because life is short and you only get one shot at it. My Grandpa Alvin is my hero. He knows a lot about life. He's an awesome grandparent and is always getting me out of trouble.

Song: "Kick it in the Sticks" by Brantley Gilbert

Joni Lampley

Do you think Obamacare is constitutional?

No. Obamacare is going to make us a communist country. It violates our freedom of choice. I want to further my education and become successful. I don't want the government holding me back from my accomplishments.

Song: "Get Back up Again" by Toby Mac

Dylan Porter

What is your idea of the perfect American President?

My idea of the perfect president is one (who) listens to the American people, honors, respects and operates America for the citizens and the citizens alone, according to the constitution.

Song: "Springsteen" by Eric Church

Brenda Sotelo (salutatorian)

How has school prepared you for life in the real world?

Athletics have taught me to face challenges and to be competitive and to prepare. My academics have taught me to think for myself and to be able to communicate my opinions and feelings based on information that I have learned from my classes.

Song: "Count on Me" by Whitney Houston

Ethan Tongate

How has school prepared you for your future?

I work at Tire Country in Farwell, Texas, and taking Spanish for two years has prepared me to communicate with people who speak little English. I've also learned how to deal with the public and work with other people. I'm going to college for diesel mechanics and welding. Eventually I would like to be an EMT and attend Fire Academy.

Song: "Country Boy" by Alan Jackson