Class of 2026: Defined by Willingness

Senior Emma McGinnis’s freshman year Art 1 self-portrait as a baby. McGinnis now serves as the president of the National Art Honors Society.“I appreciate her willingness to put forth a lot of effort in class & into club life. I believe Emma obtained many art & life skills from all her effort and dedication throughout her time at WHS,” said Dacia Trethewey. Photo Credit: Dacia Trethewey

Lauren Peviani, Staff Writer for The Powderhorn

Four years ago, many of this year’s seniors walked into Watauga unsure of their potential and capabilities. They were freshmen testing out clubs, navigating new classrooms, and trying to figure out who they wanted to become. Teachers acknowledged that what defined the Class of 2026 wasn’t unattainable perfection or effortless talent but their willingness to try new things, to take the first step to lead, and to keep going despite all of high school’s challenges.

For most, growth is the product of stepping out of their comfort zone, and this was the case for senior Emma McGinnis. Art teacher Dacia Trethewey, who has taught McGinnis since she was a freshman, has observed her transformation.

“Emma stood out as a kind, caring peer who applied herself within her artmaking, was positive about learning and trying new things, and always had quality responses to all her projects,” said Trethewey. “She helped me see that students show growth throughout their whole high school journey.”

That kind of mindset is what drives students to develop true distinction. American History teacher Brittney Maggard noted a similar evolution in senior Mikale Young. When she first taught Young, he was more reserved, but over time, he became more outgoing and confident.

“In the classroom, he consistently took initiative—his analytical nature and constant curiosity pushed me to think more deeply and explain concepts more thoroughly,” said Maggard. “When he understood a concept, he got the most genuine smile that was contagious.”

Young’s growth was not sudden. It was gradual, fashioned by his commitment to self. By stepping out of his comfort zone, Young has adopted a different mindset that has allowed him to appreciate a new set of experiences that life has to offer.

“This year at Homecoming, a place the 'old him' likely would have avoided, Mikale walked up to me, told me how excited he was to be there, and gave me a hug,” said Maggard. “That moment reflected a level of confidence and joy that showed just how much he had grown socially and personally.”

For others, willingness meant creating something that didn’t exist yet. As a freshman, Rebecca Billette approached English teacher Blakely Lord with a proposal: start a book club.

“Through trial and error, Rebecca figured out what worked, and she built a club that provides students with a space to share their love of literature and socialize with fellow bibliophiles,” said Lord. “She is an excellent example of how one person can make an impact and how a small idea can grow into an organization that touches the lives of many.”

Choral Director Frankie Lancaster has taught senior Iyla Freed, a member of AudioVox, Treble Choir, and Concert Choir, for the past three years. Lancaster notes that Freed stands out not simply because of her voice, but because of her energy and dedication to improvement from day one.

“Students like Iyla remind us that success is not about being the best on day one. It’s about

being willing to grow, being accountable, and being open to guidance,” said Lancaster. “Those qualities will take her far beyond the choir room.”

Having known seniors Harley Isaacs, Hope Miller, and Nicky Rice since their early years of high school, CTE teacher Nick Lavender has witnessed changes that reflect their academic and personal growth. The way they carried themselves among their peers brought depth and vibrant energy into the classroom–-- something that Lavender hopes younger students will carry forward as well.

“They were hilarious and very intelligent. Their humor and creativity shaped the classroom, posing ideas and challenges that pushed me to think outside the box,” said Lavender. “As an individual, you have so much to offer. Be confident, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself.”

Beyond academics and the arts, many seniors have demonstrated their willingness through acts of service. Members of the AFG Club have served the community in a variety of ways, from assisting with Hurricane Helene recovery efforts to assembling food drives, chemo care bags, and supporting local shelters. Club sponsor Donna Wellborn recognizes that their actions show their genuine desire to help without expectation of recognition.

“I am so fortunate to get to serve alongside so many great kids in our AFG Club. We are a service club for athletes, and we try to do one service project a month,” said Wellborn. “ Over the last year, these kids have helped our community in so many ways.”

Across the board, 2026 seniors who left a lasting impression weren’t necessarily the loudest or most naturally gifted. They were the ones who showed up consistently, took initiative, and stayed open to feedback. They carried a willingness to begin before they felt ready, an authenticity to themselves that allowed them to take on High School and succeed.

“You never know what you can do until you try, and sometimes trying is the real win,” said Trethewey.