Honoring Katie Wakefield and Jorge Herrera

This December, Grand County High School recognizes two exceptional seniors, Katie Wakefield and Jorge Herrera, for their achievements and contributions to their school and community.
Katie Wakefield: A Leader in Creativity and Dedication
Katie Wakefield, a 12th grader and the daughter of Gery and Gail Wakefield, shines in academics, arts, and leadership. Her favorite classes are drama, where she gets to explore her creativity and passion for performance. While math has been her most challenging subject, Katie’s determination exemplifies her dedication to overcoming obstacles.
Katie has been actively involved in the school’s marching band, serving as drum major for two years, and participating in various band classes throughout high school. As the drama club president, she has showcased her talent in musicals and drama competitions, earning second place in musical theater last year. She also serves as student body secretary, is a drama Sterling Scholar, and is a member of the honor society and quiz bowl.
Outside of school, Katie contributes to the community by teaching ballet to children–She has performed herself since sixth grade. She also participates in the Broadway Junior musical theatre program annually, where she teaches younger groups. Katie values the lessons she has learned at school, including the importance of libraries, time management, collaboration, and staying true to herself.
After graduation, Katie plans to attend Utah Valley University to study theater education and event planning. Her advice to fellow students? “Don’t worry so much about what other people think. Just enjoy yourself.”
Jorge Herrera: Creativity and Hard Work
Jorge Herrera, also a senior and the son of Jorge Herrera, has found his passion in his woodshop class, where he enjoys the creativity and fun it brings. Many readers will relate to his most challenging class–financial literacy–but Jorge said it has taught him the importance of staying on task and being responsible.
Jorge has participated in soccer during his time at GCHS and values the life lessons he has learned at school, such as being patient and managing time responsibly. Outside of school, Jorge has worked at Pasta Jay’s for the past year and is exploring opportunities in trade school to study mechanics, with a vision of balancing multiple jobs and building his career.
Though Jorge prefers to let his actions speak for him, his story serves as a reminder that hard work and perseverance pave the way for success.
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