2025-2026 UHS CTE Students of the Month

University High School

 

April 2025-2026 Senior Student of the Month

Culinary Academy

Culinary Senior - Silvia Adame Esparza

The culinary program has played an important role in helping me grow not just as a student but as an individual, especially during the more difficult times in my life. It started as simply learning how to cook, but it later became something more meaningful - it’s given me something positive to focus on when things feel stressful and overwhelming. Being in the kitchen taught me that even if things go bad, there is always a way to make it better, even if you think they won't.

The people in the culinary class also made a significant impact on my experiences in the program. My classmates and teachers created a supportive and encouraging environment where I can feel comfortable and talk to somebody when I need to. They were always willing to help, listen, and work with me when I needed help. Thanks to them, the class feels safer and more welcoming to other students as well. They even taught me that you're never alone and never have to work alone; sometimes it takes a team to figure it out.

Overall, the culinary program has been more than a class for me—it's been a place of growth, support, and self-improvement. It has helped me become more confident and responsible. Most importantly, it has shown me that even during difficult times, I am capable of growing, improving, and creating something meaningful with the support around me. 

JROTC Academy

JROTC Senior - Yuridia Olvera

Being in the JROTC program here at University High School has had a big impact on my life. JROTC has taught me discipline, responsibility, and leadership. Through team projects and having a staff position for 2 years, I’ve learned how to stay organized, communicate clearly, and take on more responsibility. The program has not only had an impact on my academic life, but also my personal life, helping me grow confidence in myself and my abilities.

Our instructors, Chief Warrant Officer Matthew Francis and SFC Marcus Haner, make a huge difference not just in my life, but to all of the other cadets in the program as well. They are more than just our instructors—they are mentors who want the best for us, pushing us to be the best people we can be, often quoting the mission of the program, “To Motivate Young People to Become Better Citizens.” The skills and values I’ve gained in JROTC will forever resonate with me long after I leave school and continue to guide me in the future, no matter what lies ahead.

March 2025-2026 Senior Student of the Month

GWAMA Welding Academy

GWAMA Welding Senior - Sylvia Perez

My name is Sylvia Perez, and I am a 17-year-old junior at Waco High School. Currently, I am in my second year of welding at GWAMA and my first year of Dual-Credit courses with TSTC. GWAMA has embraced me wholeheartedly, providing an environment where I can pursue my passion. Initially, I faced challenges as the only girl in a predominantly male field, often feeling scrutinized for my work. I have improved my skills and love my program. I love that more girls joined the program. Welding has fostered a sense of community and reinforced my belief that women can thrive in STEM and engineering. As I look ahead to my senior year, I aspire to secure internships that could lead to job opportunities post-graduation. The experiences I have gained at GWAMA have significantly shaped my future aspirations, allowing me to connect with others through practical activities and collaborative learning. This journey has solidified my commitment to pursuing a career in STEM, where I hope to inspire other young women to follow their interests in engineering and technology.

STEM Engineering Academy

STEM Engineering Senior - Darrius Thomas

Being part of the Engineering Pathway at University High School has provided invaluable support and guidance throughout my high school career. This program hasn't just given me a hobby; it has given me a clear sense of direction for my future. I’ve had the opportunity to experience the field firsthand—from the initial stages of design and innovation to seeing the "real world" in action.

Some of my most memorable moments involved traveling to see professionals in their element, such as watching automotive technicians at a drag strip and observing aerospace engineers working on rocket ships. Beyond the technical exposure, the program equipped me with a vital toolkit of life skills: time management, problem-solving, teamwork, and resourcefulness. I am incredibly grateful to the WISD Engineering Pathway for shaping my goals and giving me the confidence to pursue them.

February 2025-2026 Senior Student of the Month

Education and Training Academy

Education and Training Senior - Sasha Portis

Being part of the Education and Training Pathway at University High School in Waco ISD has truly shaped my future and helped me discover exactly what I want to do after High School. While I have always dreamed of becoming a teacher, this program has taken that childhood dream and turned it into a clear and confident career goal. Ever since I was little, I loved playing “school” with my older sisters. I would set up pretend classrooms, create assignments, and imagine myself standing at the front of the room teaching lessons. Even at a young age, I felt a calling to be in education. However, being part of the Education Pathway has allowed me to experience what teaching is really like beyond imagination and pretend play. One of the most impactful parts of this program has been the weekly rotations to local elementary schools. These rotations have given me the opportunity to observe different teaching styles, work with students across multiple grade levels, and see firsthand the responsibilities and rewards that come with being an educator. Watching teachers manage classrooms, build relationships with students, and create engaging lessons has shown me the dedication and passion the profession requires. Through these experiences, I have not only confirmed that I want to be a teacher, but I have also discovered the specific grade level that interests me. After working with various grades, I have realized that second grade is where I see myself making the biggest difference. Second graders are at such an important stage in their academic and personal development. They are gaining independence, strengthening their reading and math skills, and growing in confidence. Being able to guide students through that critical year excites and motivates me. The Education and Training Pathway has influenced my future career goals by giving me hands-on experience, real-world insight, and confirmation that this is the right path for me. It has strengthened my passion for teaching and helped me understand the impact educators have on young lives. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of a program that not only prepares students academically, but also inspires them to pursue meaningful careers. Because of this pathway, my dream of becoming a teacher is no longer just something I imagined as a child — it is now a clear goal that I am actively working toward. I am proud to represent the Education and Training Pathway and honored to continue pursuing my future as a second-grade teacher.

Future Educator PTECH Academy

Future Educator PTECH Senior - Chloe Pedrotti

Being a part of the Future Educators Academy has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my high school career. What I appreciate most is how it has given me a clear sense of direction. While a lot of students are still unsure about what they want to do after graduation, being in this program has helped me feel confident about pursuing a career in education. What makes this program so special to me is the hands-on experience it provides. I love working with kids, and the Academy has given me the opportunity to do that. From creating and teaching our own lesson plans to working directly with students in real classroom settings, I have gained real-life teaching experience that goes beyond learning about education in a textbook. We have also organized fundraisers and participated in activities that show us the responsibility and leadership that come with being an educator. These experiences have helped me grow not only as a future teacher but as a person.

Another thing I value about the Future Educators Academy is the sense of community it creates. Being surrounded by peers who share similar goals and passions makes the experience even more special. We encourage each other, learn from each other, and grow together. The program has also helped me develop important skills like communication, responsibility, and professionalism. Skills that will benefit me not only as a future teacher but in any path I take. More than anything, the Academy has reminded me why education matters. It has shown me that teaching is not just a profession; it is a commitment to helping others succeed and believe in themselves. As a senior preparing for the next chapter of my life, I am grateful for the confidence, experience, and inspiration this program has given me.

January 2025-2026 Senior Student of the Month

Law Academy

Law Senior - Yadhira Salinas

My name is Yadhira Salinas, and I am 17 years old and a senior at University High School. The Criminal Justice Program at my school has played a major role in shaping who I am today, both professionally and academically. It has opened my eyes to new career paths and given me insight into opportunities I never knew existed. Under the guidance of Ms. Gaston, I have had the privilege of being able to participate in valuable experiences, such as visiting the McLennan County Jail, the courthouse, and even going on police ride-alongs. Each of these experiences has given me a first-hand look into the field of criminal justice and the responsibilities that come with serving the community.

One experience that truly impacted me was visiting the courthouse. Previously, I assumed prosecutors only focused on punishing offenders. However, in the courthouse, I witnessed how public servants actually work together to help people receive fair treatment and second chances. Seeing justice approached with both firmness and compassion gave me a new understanding of how the legal system actually works and can make a positive impact.

In addition to these real-world experiences, the Criminal Justice Program has helped me grow as a person and as a student. I’ve learned essential life skills, such as creating professional portfolios, building strong resumes, and improving my communication with peers and professionals. The program has also taught me discipline, responsibility, and confidence - qualities that have prepared me not only for college, but for life beyond the classroom.

I now aspire to earn a law degree and become a defense attorney or an immigration lawyer. Being a part of this program has shown me that a career in the criminal justice field is not just about enforcing rules. It's about standing up for fairness and helping those who have been silenced to have a voice, changing the system for the generations to come. I am truly grateful for how this program and my mentors have inspired me to work harder and find my purpose in helping others. Not only did I gain knowledge and direction in my future career, but I have also gained true friends and mentors who have made my senior year unforgettable. 

GWAMA Construction Academy

GWAMA Construction Senior - Mark Martinez

The Greater Waco Advanced Manufacturing Academy (GWAMA), the Construction Science pathway, and the teachers and friends have drastically motivated me throughout the construction process. GWAMA has been a life-changing experience of how and what I will become in the industry. It provided me with a hardworking ethic, critical thinking skills, and the confidence to succeed. The real-life experiences and courage in the construction industry are truly immeasurable. The Construction Science Pathway has very challenging difficulties that I am eager to take on. I am determined to achieve my goals and accomplish anything in the construction industry. Through this journey and the classes at GWAMA, I can actually see how important this pathway is, making the wait to be fully certified worthwhile.  My family members have always encouraged me to pursue that which makes me happy, and the construction pathway is the road to my dreams.  Besides my family, I have had encouragement and help from teachers.  Mrs. Novosad and Ms. Smathers have both made me realize that I am a good person and a mature young man.  That, above all else, has given me confidence to succeed in my pathway, academics, and life.   Their support made me realize that I can do things when I thought I couldn't.  In general, GWAMA, the Construction Science pathway, and the teachers and staff are caring people and set good examples as honest, compassionate people– the “person” I want to be.  Without them, I wouldn't have become what I am today.  My goal is to further my education and career with TSTC and move into the Construction industry.

December 2025-2026 Senior Student of the Month

Business Finance Academy

Business Finance Senior - Karren Chavez

This academy has helped me dive deeper into my love and passion for photography. The academy has opened many new doors for me along the way. For example, I have to connect with many different coaches and athletes in the athletic department. I was also able to travel with many sports to away and home events and was able to capture pictures for the yearbook as well as for coaches and athletes for personal use. I have also been able to grow my skills and have been able to take pictures outside of school for many different events, for example, weddings, birthdays, graduation, etc. This Academy has also helped me realize photography is what I want to do in college, as well as after college. If I were not in this Academy, I am unsure if I would have known what I would want to pursue in college. However, I now know someday I would like to either get hired on to a big business or create my own business in the photography/videography field.

My teacher, Mr. Thomas, has opened some of these doors for me along the way, as well as always supporting me and being there whenever I needed, and for that, I am extremely thankful. Therefore, I am unsure if I would be where I am if I were not part of this Academy. I have also been able to connect with other photographers in this Academy who share the same interests and goals as me. This has also helped a lot to not only have a teacher there for me, but also fellow students whom I can go to and ask questions as well. The last reason I am thankful for this Academy is that it has helped me build my portfolio early, since this is indeed what I would like to do as a future career. In conclusion, this Academy has opened many new doors for me, as well as being there when I needed to expose myself to new surroundings and friends. It has also made me put myself out there when it comes to connecting with new people in different parts of the athletic department and has helped build my clientele outside of school.

November 2025-2026 Senior Student of the Month

Arts, Audio/Video Technology, & Communications Academy

Arts, Audio/Video Technology, & Communications Senior - Rihanna Abor

This academy has helped me dive deeper into my love and passion for photography. The academy has opened many new doors for me along the way. For example, I have to connect with many different coaches and athletes in the athletic department. I was also able to travel with many sports to away and home events and was able to capture pictures for the yearbook as well as for coaches and athletes for personal use. I have also been able to grow my skills and have been able to take pictures outside of school for many different events, for example, weddings, birthdays, graduation, etc. This Academy has also helped me realize photography is what I want to do in college, as well as after college. If I were not in this Academy, I am unsure if I would have known what I would want to pursue in college. However, I now know someday I would like to either get hired on to a big business or create my own business in the photography/videography field.

My teacher, Mr. Thomas, has opened some of these doors for me along the way, as well as always supporting me and being there whenever I needed, and for that, I am extremely thankful. Therefore, I am unsure if I would be where I am if I were not part of this Academy. I have also been able to connect with other photographers in this Academy who share the same interests and goals as me. This has also helped a lot to not only have a teacher there for me, but also fellow students whom I can go to and ask questions as well. The last reason I am thankful for this Academy is that it has helped me build my portfolio early, since this is indeed what I would like to do as a future career. In conclusion, this Academy has opened many new doors for me, as well as being there when I needed to expose myself to new surroundings and friends. It has also made me put myself out there when it comes to connecting with new people in different parts of the athletic department and has helped build my clientele outside of school.

October 2025-2026 Senior Student of the Month

GWAHCA Health Science Academy

GWAHCA Health Science Senior - Dustin Cruz

The Greater Waco Advanced Health Care Academy (GWAHCA) program, the Health Science pathway, and my teachers that I’ve come in contact with have greatly positively impacted me. GWAHCA has been a significant stepping stone for my future success in the medical field, providing me with invaluable, irreplaceable, and unattainable experience. That real-world experience and exposure to the medical world is truly priceless. The health science pathway as a whole holds many great challenges and lessons to be learned. Through the classes leading up to GWAHCA and the supplemental classes there, the pathway as a whole has given me a premise for the healthcare industry that is extremely worthwhile. Regarding the teachers along the way, I had the pleasure of growing by their side, and they've left their mark on my life. Their selflessness and helpful attitudes have shown me what good role models they are, and have pushed me to try harder in my life. They help guide and make things easier along the stressful way. Overall, the GWAHCA program, the Health Science pathway, and my teachers are all amazing, and I am grateful for the time they have greatly positively impacted me.

September 2025-2026 Senior Student of the Month

Automotive

Automotive Senior - Gabriela Guerra Sanchez

What’s been a game-changer in my Automotive class at University High School? It has definitely been learning to ask for help when I need it, working as a team, and embracing respect and responsibility.

Being one of the only girls in the shop has its challenges, but it’s also been a huge learning experience. The guys in the shop are awesome, and when I’ve needed a hand—whether it’s changing a tire or torqueing it down—putting my ego aside and asking for help has always been the best way to get the job done. It’s a lesson that’s going to stick with me, thanks to Mr. Chavez: teamwork makes the dream work.

I’ve learned that asking questions isn’t a weakness—it’s how you grow. No one has all the answers, but by communicating and leaning on others who are willing to teach, the work becomes easier and more efficient. Something that’s been drilled into me over the last four years in this class is respect—for myself, for others, and for the tools and cars we work with. Not everyone will be respectful, but I’ve learned that as long as I stay responsible and do things the right way, I can get the job done.

Taking Automotive at University has sparked something in me—a love for fixing things, getting my hands dirty, and feeling the satisfaction of bringing something back to life. What’s most exciting? Being able to take what I’ve learned and apply it to my own car at home. There’s nothing like the feeling of not having to rely on someone else to do the work. The more I learn, the more confident I get in tackling car repairs on my own, all thanks to the awesome community around me.