Dear Warriors,
As the school year comes to a close, and with it the conclusion of our high school journey for my fellow classmates of the graduating class of 2024, I reflect on my experiences these past four years at Warren. When I took my first step into Warren Central as a masked freshman, I could’ve never guessed what the next four years would hold for me. I could not have anticipated writing this letter as someone considered a leader in the school.
As the current valedictorian of the class of 2024, I have realized that success in high school is not measured by GPA, but the amount of knowledge and skills that you can acquire in your time in school. The resources and opportunities provided by Warren and the Walker Career Center allow us to develop skills that will serve us well beyond high school. If these opportunities are taken advantage of, students are equipped with the necessary tools for real life the moment they graduate. My biggest advice to Warren Central students is to take advantage of these classes and figure out what your passion is.
As an athlete, I’ve truly been able to experience what it means to be a Warrior. My teammates and coaches are some of my biggest supporters, and without them, I would not be where I am today. My participation in cross country and track and field have contributed to my success the most. Without these sports, I would never have had the influence of upperclassmen as an underclassman. I wouldn’t have been able to create numerous friendships with my teammates. I have received far more support and recognition for my athletic achievements than my academic achievements. I strongly encourage every student to get involved in extracurricular activities, whether through athletics, performing arts, or clubs, not just as something to put on their resume, but as a means of creating a support system for themselves during their high school journey.
However, as I celebrate our school for our successes, I must also acknowledge the problems that persist and strive for change within our school. I hope that one day a Warren Central student can walk into the bathroom without having to fight their way through a cloud of smoke to use the restroom. I wish for a day when a Warren Central student can not only take pride in the numerous state championships in the Hall of Fame, but also their school’s attendance rate, graduation rate, and average SAT score. I hope for a day that Warren Central student-athletes not only wear their student athlete backpack as a symbol of their athletic achievement but also embody the title of being both a dedicated student and a committed athlete. I hope for the day when people hear that we are Warren students and don't immediately raise negative biases, but instead recognize what it truly means to be a Warrior: resilience, dedication, and commitment to our community. Let us all strive for this future to create a better school for all students.
As I prepare to walk across the stage and end my journey as a Warren Central Warrior, I will not say goodbye to the Warren community, because it will follow and continue to support me for the rest of my life. Thank you to all teachers, staff, coaches, and fellow students who have made my journey at Warren so special.
Just a kid from Warren,
Grant Coburn