Tolar Valedictorian and Salutatorian

Tolar High School announces class of 2024 valedictorian and salutatorian. Receiving the honors are Valedictorian Cooper Griffith and Salutatorian Olivia McLain.

COOPER GRIFFITH: VALEDICTORIAN 

Cooper Griffith is the 2024 Valedictorian of Tolar High School. "The biggest challenge was managing extracurricular activities while maintaining a high GPA," Griffith said. As an FFA chapter officer, he honed his leadership skills, a testament to his commitment. Griffith also served as a National Honor Society officer and class officer and worked at Diverse Suspension Technology in Stephenville, where he efficiently handled orders and managed shipping.

Griffith believes the valedictorian credential will add to his resume and potentially expand his career opportunities. He plans to attend Tarleton State University in the fall and study to become a mechanical engineer, hoping to work at a nuclear power plant eventually. 

For fun, Griffith likes to fish. His favorite animal is the Barreleye fish because it looks funny. He also enjoys hunting and playing video games to relax. 

Math was Griffith's favorite subject, while he found English challenging. His advice to first-year students reflects his balanced approach to academics and life: "Do your work but also make time to enjoy life. Don't let the pursuit of grades overshadow your personal growth. Strive to do your best, and that's enough." Reflecting on his high school experience, he admitted being surprised by the newfound freedoms and responsibilities.

OLIVIA MCLAIN: SALUTATORIAN

McLain earned the designation of 2024 Salutatorian of Tolar High School. She says her biggest challenge in attaining this goal was managing schoolwork and extracurricular activities such as student council, track, cross country and volleyball. In addition to her academic and sports obligations, McLain worked at Funky Munky Sno Cones and a sweets shop.

One year ago, McLain decided to become a dental hygienist. She plans to attend Angelo State University in San Angelo to advance this career goal.

English was McLain’s favorite subject and she found chemistry most difficult. Her favorite animal is the cat, and her favorite fun things to do are hanging out with friends and shopping. To relax, she likes to run or have quiet time.

Also a member of the National Honor Society, McLain is the first person in her family to reach the academic status of salutatorian. Her advice to first-year students is to “ … be involved with the school.” She adds wise words that would have encouraged her upon entering high school: “The hard times won’t last forever.” What most surprised her about high school was that “(I) never thought I would run cross country and actually enjoy it.”