Graduation 2026

by

Jackson Hole High School

10 a.m., June 6, William T. McIntosh Stadium

Jessica Arellano Quintero

Parents: Katerine Quintero, Cirilo

Arellano, Luis Gomez Vazquez and Natalia Mancilla

Plans: Kinesiology at College of Central Nevada

Activities: Work-based learning, volunteer at Community Entry Services

Dulce Maria Bedolla Méndez

Parents: Ana Méndez Gaona and Oscar Bedolla Ramos

Plans: Paul Mitchell Cosmetology and Beauty School, Arizona State University

Activities: Latina Leadership, JHHS Prom Committee

Gemma Billimoria

Parents: Kim and Zahan Billimoria

Plans: Nursing at Northern Arizona University

Activities: Jackson Hole Dance Team captain, Key Club secretary, HOSA council member

Valentina Lizzeth Arenas Saldana

Parents: Fernando Arenas Rodriguez and Gabriela Anabel Saldana Espinoza Plans: Culinary arts at Central Wyoming College Activities: DECA Club

Jose Yamil Bedolla Perez

Parents: Adriana Perez and Jose Trinidad Bedolla Plans: Landscaping Activities: Guitar, snowboarding, mountain biking

Hunter Bingham

Parents: Alivia and Darrin Bingham

Plans: Welding at Wyotech Activities: Varsity Hockey, hockey nationals, Varsity Tennis captain

Ellyanna Aguilar

Parents: Rico Aguilar and Hannah Guear Plans: University of Wyoming Activities: National Art Honor Society

Kristal Barajas Garcia

Parents: Yaneth Garcia and Jonatan Barajas

Plans: Accounting at Metropolitan State University

Marlee Beech

Parent: Katie Beech

Plans: University of Wyoming Activities: Student Council

Braxton Blair

Parents: Grandmother Linda Benson and late mother Rikki Blair

Plans: Music/undecided at Casper College Activities: Band, Building Broncs, Track, AVID farmer

Ricardo Aguilar

Parents: Anabel Paredes and Maclovio Aguilar

Plans: University of Wyoming Activities: Soccer, Key Club, football

Cameron Barlow

Parents: Brandon Barlow and Jessica Ballingham

Plans: Civil engineering at Utah State University Activities: Mountain biking, skiing

Kyrem Beristain

Parents: Georgina Martinez and Vicente Beristain Plans: Laramie County Community College Activities: JHHS Soccer Team captain

Hayden Block

Parents: Ryan and Rebecca Block Plans: Kinesiology at Montana State University Activities: Varsity Basketball, NICA Mountain Biking, Varsity Softball, FCA club, 4-H Livestock, 4-H Photography

Maidi Ajtun Rivas

Parent: Maidi Rivas López

Plans: Elementary education at Central Wyoming College

Activities: Educators Rising, Teton Literacy Center, community service

Eileen Barrios Perez

Parents: Esteban Barrios and Eloisa Perez

Plans: Central Wyoming College

Activities: Tlaxcala Intercambio Club

Sophie Bess

Parents: Mary and KC Bess

Plans: Health and exercise science at University of British Columbia Okanagan Activities: Speech and Debate Team, Rotary Youth Exchange, Rotary Interact, Rotex Club, horseback riding

Katie Boillot

Parents: Paul and Amy Boillot

Plans: Integrated marketing communications at Ole Miss

Activities: Key Club president, National Honor Society, Youth Philanthropy, Model UN, Speech and Debate Team, JHHS Tennis Team

Zoe Bosch

Parents: Nancy and Jerry Bosch

Plans: Play lacrosse at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Activities: Basketball, Tennis, Lacrosse, MUN, NHS, NHD

Hunter Boss

Parents: Jocelyn and Aaron Boss Plans: Radiologic Technology Activities: Wrestling, football

Nora Campbell

Parents: Victoria and Eric Campbell

Plans: San Diego State University Activities: Model UN, Track and Field, volunteering with SPED department

Ann-Dallas Confer

Parents: Katie and Matt Confer

Plans: Fine arts at Texas Christian

University Activities: Lady Moose Hockey, JHHS Swim Team, NAHS

Shirley Delgado Rosales

Parents: Sandra Rosales Hernandez and César Delgado Molina

Plans: Paul Mitchell Cosmetology and Beauty School

Activities: Tlaxcala Intercambio and Latina Leadership

Dylan Cuapantecatl Zarate

Parents: Abraham Cuapantecatl and Laura Zarate Plans: Work with father Activities: Soccer

Sergio Andres Diaz Cruz

Parent: Jenny Cruz Beltran

Olin Brecker

Parents: Maria Lofgren and Derek Brecker Plans: Business at Northern Arizona University Activities: Basketball, snowboarding, golf

Parents: Aurora Sanchez and Moises Carrillo

Plans: Laramie County Community College Activities: AVID, Key Club

Jaden D’Amours

Parents: Julie and Paul D’Amours Plans: Gap year followed by Colby College Activities: Tennis Team, Sustainability Club, FIS Ski Team

Lizbeth Diaz Morillon

Parents: Jose Diaz and Lidia Morillon

Plans: Interior architecture and design at University of Washington Activities: AP Art

Camille Bushnell

Parents: Janice and Edward Bushnell

Plans: Colorado State University Activities: National Art Honor Society president

Ashlyn Chamberland

Parents: Amy Hindman and Brian Chamberland

Plans: Elementary education and rodeoing at College of Southern Idaho Activities: JHHS Basketball team, JHHS Golf team, JHHS Rodeo team, Best Buddies, Teton County 4-H

Alena D’Arge

Parents: Ranyon D’Arge and Tess Malone Plans: Anatolia American University in Greece

Activities: Rotex President, XC, XC Nordic, Track Team, exchange student in Sweden

Quinlan Diehl

Parents: Mariam and Scott Diehl

Plans: Santa Clara University Leavey School of Business

Activities: TCSAR Venture Crew, JHSC Backcountry Ski Program, JHHS Tennis Team, National Honor Society, Mountaineering Club

Eli Byington

Parents: Patricia and Rex Byington

Plans: Psychology at University of Wyoming Activities: Cross Country Team

Addie Clark

Parents: Carey and Sean Clark Plans: College of Charleston

Jackson Darin

Parents: Hope Sieck and Thomas Darin

Plans: Biology at William and Mary College Activities: Students for Sustainability, football, lacrosse

Kaia Dimitroff

Parents: Jolene and Matt Dimitroff

Plans: Gap year

Activities: NHS, Rotary Interact Club, Teton Mountaineering Club, Girls U19 Hockey

Halyson Duran Montiel

Parents: Marlen Montiel and Jose Duran

Plans: Central Wyoming College Activities: Any

Ryan Flanagan

Parents: Emily and Chris Flanagan

Plans: University of South Florida Activities: Varsity Soccer, National Honor Society, Rotary Interact Club, Varsity Football

David Garcia Flores

Parents: Cesar Garcia and Magda Flores

Plans: University of Wyoming Activities: Building Broncs, baseball

Angel Gerardo Godinez

Parents: Olivia Benitez Soto and Jose Godinez Hernandez

Plans: Central Wyoming College Activities: Alpine skiing, track

Madison Earl

Parents: Christian and Shauna Earl

Plans: Professional flight at Louisiana Tech University Activities: Speech and Debate Team, 4-H Rabbits and Rifle, theatre, National Honor Society, Model UN

Kylie Fletcher

Parents: Erin and Adam Fletcher

Plans: Education at Oregon State University Activities: XC, Nordic, Track, workbased learning, lead in High School Musical

Imanol Garcia Bedolla

Parents: Teresa Bedolla Perez and Fernando Garcia Sosa Plans: Laramie County Community College Activities: AVID, Key Club, soccer, Building Broncs

Lucas Goewert

Parents: Matthew Goewert and Cindy Chia Goewert

Plans: Health sciences at Oregon State University Cascades Activities: Soccer, downhill ski racing

Bea Erskine

Parents: Andy and Becky Erskine

Plans: Religious studies at University of Wyoming Activities: Speech and Debate Team, JHHS Swim Team, volunteer work at Jackson Hole History Museum

Hiland “Bryce” Fralin

Parents: Steve and Sharon Fralin

Plans: Automechanics and performance vehicles at trade school

Activities: Work-based learning at AutoTech, JHHS veteran event volunteer

Izaak Garcia

Parents: Leila and Israel Garcia Plans: Gap year Activities: Hockey, lacrosse

Diego Gonzalez Corona

Parents: Maria Corona Gonzalez and Ramiro Gonzalez Corona

Plans: University of Wyoming Activities: Key Club, Varsity Soccer

Nairi Escobar Sanchez

Parents: Veronica Sanchez Ramirez and Luis Escobar Garcia

Plans: Political science at University of Denver Activities: Model UN, Student School Board Member, Key Club, Tlaxcala Intercambio, National Honor Society

McCullough Frobouck

Parents: Molly and Hunter Frobouck

Plans: University of Virginia Activities: Varsity Swimming for four years, Club Swimming for eight years, National Honor Society, Rotary Club, Wyoming Swimming Athlete Committee and Officials Committee

Mili Garcia Hernandez

Parents: Victor Garcia and Alejandra Hernandez Plans: Wyotech

Isaac Goralski

Parents: Jamila and Michael Goralski

Plans: Chemical engineering

Activities: Cross Country, track, football, wrestling, robotics

Tyler Fisk

Parents: Bruce and Rose Fisk

Plans: University of Wyoming Activities: 4-H, Boy Scouts of America

Ashley Garcia

Parents: Isacc Garcia Garcia and Lucia Perez Garcia

Plans: Fashion marketing in New York Activities: Baking

Will Geittmann

Parents: Clay Geittmann, Kaley Parent and Sarah Beninga

Plans: U.S. Naval Academy

Activities: Students for Sustainability, Socrates Club, Best Buddies, National Honor Society, football, basketball, outdoor and indoor Track and Field, cross country, work-based learning

Gretchen Gosinski

Parents: Jeremy and Teresa Gosinski

Plans: Endicott College

Activities: National Honor Society, Varsity U19 Girls Hockey for four years, volunteer coaching for soccer and hockey, peer tutor

We are so proud of your incredible journey and all you’ve accomplished. Here’s to the next adventure—your future is bright, and we can’t wait to see where it takes you. congratulations to

Maidi Atjun Rivas and Diego Romero Cortez

Cashius Jaeger

Parents: Karee Miller and Jason Jaeger

Plans: University of Arizona

Activities: Varsity Lacrosse for four years and captain senior year, hockey for four years, Building Broncs leader

Anthony Jimenez Vazquez

Parents: Patricia Vazquez Mendoza and Cesar Jimenez Bedolla

Plans: University of Wyoming

Activities: Climbing Club, Key Club, Building Broncs, Investment Club

Riley Jones

Parents: Corey and Connie Jones

Plans: Working at Snow King and with dad Activities: Played drums in band, sang in choir

Michael Klein Cruz

Parents: Andy Klein and Nastassia Cruz

Plans: Gap year followed by Western Washington University

Activities: National Art Honors Society, Coombs Outdoors, backcountry skiing, skateboarding, making art, climbing backpacking

Diego Jaimes

Parents: Julio Jaimes and Jazmin Martinez

Plans: FLT Academy in Utah Activities: Soccer, football

Hector Euriel Jimenez

Parents: Elizabeth Lopez Tenopala

Plans: Work

Nahomi Juarez Lopez

Parents: Florencia Lopez Bedolla

Plans: Nail technology at Paul Mitchell Cosmetology and Beauty School

Palmer Kline

Parents: Mort Kline and Sabine Gregori-Kline

Plans: Economics at CU Boulder Activities: Lacrosse, alpine ski racing, Students For Sustainability

Eva Japel

Parents: Margaret and Aaron Japel

Plans: Business marketing and studio art at Chapman University

Activities: Varsity Nordic, Varsity Tennis, Varsity Soccer, Key Club, Youth Philanthropy, four years working as a nanny and small business owner

Grant Johnson

Parents: Keith and Betsy Johnson

Plans: Serving on an LDS mission in Johannesburg, South Africa until 2028 Activities: JHHS Basketball for two years, JHHS Football for four years

Shane Keelin

Parents: Meghan Quinn and Robert Keelin

Plans: Quantitative biosciences and engineering at Colorado School of Mines Activities: JH Backcountry Ski Program, JH Climbing and Mountaineering Club, 4-H Junior Leader vice president, Finland Exchange Program

Maddie Krasula

Parents: Lisa Lowenfels and Michael Krasula

Plans: University of Wisconsin-Madison Activities: Varsity Cross Country, Varsity Track, Tlaxcala Intercambio, NAHS, 4-H Helping Hands, Students for Sustainability, Model UN

Chris Jaquith

Parent: David Jaquith

Plans: San Diego State University Activities: Hockey

Zack Johnson

Parents: Susan and Kyle Johnson

Plans: Montana State University

Activities: National Honor Society, JHHS Mountaineering Club, Jackson Hole Kayak Club, robotics, NASA HUNCH, media arts, Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem

Tyson Kendall

Parents: Kristen Fila and Tyler Kendall Plans: Football at Redwoods College Activities: Football, Wrestling, Track

Oliver Lack

Parents: Amanda and Corey Lack

Plans: Music at Tulsa Community College Activities: Musical

Parker Jenkins

Parents: Christine and Pete Jenkins

Plans: Aerospace engineering at University of Utah or Cal Poly

Activities: Mountain Bike Team, hockey, Mountaineering Club, climbing, skiing, National Honor Society, Ultimate Frisbee Club

Jones

Parents: Simon and Stephanie Jones

Plans: Ringling College of Art and Design Activities: Speech and Debate Team

Lincoln Klausmann

Parents: Darcy and Jeff Klausmann

Plans: Cal Poly University Activities: Soccer, alpine skiing

Brett Lane

Parents: Frank and Alisa Lane

Plans: Finance at University of Denver

Activities: Lacrosse, alpine skiing

Wesley Lawrence

Parents: Glenda and Jeff Lawrence

Plans: Automotive Technology at Wyotech

Gap year

Tate Lemke

Parents: Dustin Lemke and Hatilie Anderson

Plans: Engineering at University of Utah Activities: Investment Club, Climbing Club, JHHS Alpine Ski Team, NASA Hunch

Liam Logan

Parents: Tyson and Elizabeth Logan

Plans: Business at University of Southern California Activities: Varsity Soccer, Varsity Football, Varsity skiing, National Honor Society

Nicole Lopez

Parents: Felipe Lopez Sandoval and Silvia Hernandez Plans: Laramie County Community College

Activities: Key Club, Latina Leadership, National Art Honor Society socials manager, Seal of Biliteracy, AVID Scholar

Shakynah Mach

Parents: Fatimah and Abubaco Mach

Plans: Animation, internship, work, Central Wyoming College fundamentals, voice acting, art

Activities: National Art Honor Society, SPARK, Speech and Debate Team, photography, musicals, student curator, TeenTakeover

Vivian Madera

Parents: Joe and Amy Madera

Plans: Child development and early education at Michigan State University Activities: JHHS Soccer, Best Buddies, Key Club, Lose the Vuse president

Ronin Leosh

Parents: Heath and Liz Leosh

Plans: Gap year Activities: Golf

Cristina Lopez Palacios

Parents: Juan Lopez and Josefina Palacios

Plans: Business administration at Central Wyoming College Jackson

Nyla Lopez

Parents: Mauricio López and Annel Hernández Plans: Utah State University Activities: Key Club, Speech and Debate Team

Aubrey Maestas

Parents: Colleen and Danny Maestas

Plans: Science at University of British Columbia Vancouver Activities: Cross County, nordic skiing, Track and Field, work-based learning

Grady Lewis

Parents: Jean and Jason Lewis

Plans: Soccer at Hobart College Activities: Soccer, golf, hockey

Edgar Lopez Rios

Parents: Laura Rios Hernandez and Edgar Lopez

Plans: Central Wyoming College Activities: American Legion Baseball

Simei Lopez Carreto

Parents: Isaura Carreto Plans: Gap year Activities: Latina Leadership

Diego Mares Lopez

Parents: Mario Mares Perez and Guillermina Lopez Navarro

Plans: Gap year followed by culinary arts at Central Wyoming College Activities: Football, Clash Club

May Liles

Parents: Sofija and Bart Liles

Plans: Santa Clara University Activities: Lacrosse

Jared Lopez

Parents: Karem and Alberto Lopez

Plans: Construction management at University of Wyoming Activities: Football, Climbing Club, Key Club

Hudson Lynch

Parents: Susannah and Michael Lynch

Plans: Entrepreneurship at Gonzaga University Activities: Varsity Hockey, Varsity Soccer, Investment Club, middle school tutor, teaching assistant for AVID

Cameron Marlowe

Parents: Chad Marlowe and Natalie Volcko

Plans: Political science and criminology at University of Idaho

Activities: Tennis, Speech and Debate Team, National Honor Society, Building Broncs, soccer

Gaizka Martell

Parents: Rodolfo Martell and Claudia Martinez Plans: LCCC and University of Wyoming

College Activities: JHHS Girl’s Swimming and Diving, Student

Liam McPeak

Parents: Brett McPeak and Whitney Royster

Plans: University of Chicago Activities: Football, Lacrosse, NHS, Investment Club, Chess Club, Track and Field

The Bird

Albertsons

Altitude

Aspens Market

Bank of Jackson Hole

Belle Cose

Big R Ranch & Home

Black Tie Ski

Brett McPeak

Café Genevive

Christina Watson/Yarrow Group

Cotopaxi

Cowboy Co ee

Creekside Deli

First Interstate Bank

Hub bike shop

Jackson Drug

Jackson Family Denistry

Jackson Hole Contractors

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

JD Outfitters

JH Car Wash

JH Compunet

Johnathan Robinson

Kemo Sabo Hat Store

Lee’s Tees

Lucky You

Live Water Properties

Luxe Nail Spa

Maestas Family

Moo’s Ice Cream

New West Knifeworks / Jessica

Milligan

Nora’s

Pearl Street Bagels

Pearl Street Market

Persephone/Picnic

Esteban Martinez Hernandez

Parents: Abelina Hernandez and Alejandro Martinez

Plans: University of Wyoming School of Business Activities: JHHS Football, AVID

Owen McGowan Parents: Kate and Kevin McGowan

Plans: Gap year Activities: JHHS Football, Building Broncs

Jordan Meagher-Ramsey

Parents: Lincoln Ramsey and Jennifer Meagher Plans: Montana State University Activities: Robotics, band

Ava McIntyre

Parents: Howard and Kim McIntyre

Plans: BYU Idaho-Rexburg Activities: JHHS and Club Swim Team, Student Council, FCA

Meerman

Parents: Caroline Meerman Plans: Appalachian State University Activities: Basketball, Track and Field

James Maxim

Parents: Alison and Jim Maxim Plans: Architecture at Montana State University Activities: National Honor Society, fly fishing, photography, drawing

James McJunkin and Bonnie Kovacs

Riley Miller

Parents: Dan and Ingrid Miller Plans: University of Wisconsin-Madison Activities: JHHS Climbing Club, Students for Sustainability

Pinky G’s/Bunker

Rendezvous River Sports

Scandia Down

The Flanagans

Teton Gravity Research

Teton Toys

Triangle X Ranch

Workshop

State Farm- Austin O’Bryhim

Teton Thai

Teton Tiger

Brian Remlinger

Nancy Bosch

Gretchen Spankie

Matt and Aimee Zeleznik

Rebecca Wilcox

Katharine Confer

Mary Frobouck

Julia Nielson

John Healy

Shannon Yarrow

Whitney Royster

Yeomans Family

The Peightal Family

Lewis Family

Shelly Nields

Haines-Patten Family

Jackson Family

The Mollinet Family

The Wilson Family

Jocelyn Boss

Hultman Family

D’amours Family

Boillot Family

Ashton Tattersall

Steinberg Family

Lynch Family

Statter Family

Jennifer Scott

Reid Family

Karee Miller

Christy Robertson

Elizabeth Logan

Kristen Fila

Heidi Somers

Rebecca Block

Catherine Bradford

Craig Olivieri

Alivia Bingham

Alisa Lane

Christine Jenkins

Laney McDowell

Parents: Scott and Shannon McDowell

Plans: College of William and Mary

Activities: Spark Magazine editor, Teton County Library page, JHHS Thespian Troupe, JHHS Choir leader and soloist, National Honor Society

Parents: Martha Gray McKinney and Chris McKinney

Plans: Christopher Newport University

Activities: Varsity Jackson Hole Lacrosse, JHHS Basketball, JHHS Football

Taylah Miller

Parents: Janice Miller and Logan Miller

Plans: Biology and marine biology at San Diego State University

Activities: Polynesian Dance Club, Varsity Basketball, volleyball, Sustainability, beach clean-up, school production, music concert, netball, swimming and track

Juan Sanchez

Christine Turner

Andrea Weenig

JH Compunet

Pam Gotham

Jean Lewis

Susan Fleming

Thomas Wasserman

Martha Gray McKinney

Shelly Paciulli

Kathryn Hunter Ziem

Macye Maher

Jennifer Nissenberg

Ryan Block

Sharee Moser

Parent Halsey LLC

Jolene Dimitro

Sofija Liles

Clark Family

Valeria Bunnett

Darcy Klausmann

Jonathan Robinson

Robyn Thompson

Deb Keenan

Joy Abad

Geittmann Larson Swift LLP

Carrie Varga

Teresa Gosinski

Patricia Vazquez

Annel Hernandez

Becky Erskine

Catherine Bradford

Janice Bushnell

Dana Smith

McKenzie Hammond

New York City Subs

Hilario Guarneros

Taylor Moe

Parents: Megan Gerety and Tommy Moe

Plans: Gap year to ski race Activities: JHHS Varsity Soccer, JHSC Alpine Racing

Annaleisha Moulton

Parents: Aaron and Mary Moulton

Plans: Apartment program and work

community Activities: Orchestra, Special Olympics, choir, Best Buddies

Winston Ochs

Parents: Meredith and Jason Ochs

Plans: Business Analytics at SMU Activities: Jackson Hole Freeride Program, football, The Island School, work-based learning

Dante Palacios

Parents: Leslie Ariana Garcia Esquivel and Daniel Palacios

Plans: Automotive technician at University Technical Institute

Davis Moen

Parents: Amelia and Christopher Moen

Plans: Entrepreneurship at Loyola Marymount University Activities: Football, hockey, lacrosse, volunteer coaching

Isai Narvaez-Olvera

Parents: Maria Olvera Osorio and Aniceto Narvaez

Plans: Universal Tech Institution Activities: Pound for pound

Amaya Olivieri

Parents: Craig and Kim Olivieri

Plans: Swimming and mathematics at University of Vermont Activities: Varsity Swim, middle school tutor, NHS, Rotary Club International chair, All American Academic

Parker Patten

Parents: Dan Patten and Caroline Haines

Plans: Aerospace Engineering at University of Southern California Activities: Varsity Lacrosse, High School Alpine Ski Racing, IICL NICA Mountain Bike Racing

Harper Mollinet

Parents: Betsy and Scott Mollinet

Plans: University of California Los Angeles Activities: Deputy Secretary General TCMUN, Student Council secretary, Best Buddies president, Key Club grade representative, Community Foundation Youth Philanthropy, NHS

Andy Nethercott

Parents: Krista and Cole Nethercott

Plans: Respiratory Therapy at Casper College Activities: Office aide

Pearl Olson

Parents: Anna and Jeff Olson

Plans: Montana State University Activities: Key Club, National Honor Society, soccer, work-based learning

Teddy Peightal

Parents: Daryl and Fred Peightal

Plans: University of Denver McDaniels School of Business Activities: Varsity Golf, alpine ski racing, lacrosse

Juan Moreno

Parents: Dianalid Navarrete Flores and Roberto Moreno Plans: Carpentry and electricity

Sully Nields

Parents: Shelly and Mugsy Nields

Plans: San Diego State University

Activities: Hockey, lacrosse, golf, Students for Sustainability, Lose The Vuse

Wyatt Overholser

Parents: Heather and Drew Overholser

Plans: University of Utah Activities: Tennis, piano, Hole Food Rescue

Aksel Perez Andraca

Parents: Ernestina Andraca Sanchez and Ludin Perez Garcia

Plans: Automotive at Universal Technical Institute Activities: DECA, Pound for Pound

Activities: 4-wheeling

Parents: Aimee Leroy Norwine and Christopher Norwine

Plans: University of Utah Activities: NHS, Key Club, Building Broncs

Parents: Shelly and Matthew Paciulli

Plans: Nursing at University of Vermont Activities: Key Club, NHS, Best Buddies, soccer, work-based learning

Parents: Gabriela Barba Palafox and Lenin Díaz

Plans: Paul Mitchell Cosmetology and Beauty School

Activities: Football manager, girls basketball manager

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Jovany Perez Esquivel

Parents: Efrain Perez Diaz and Erika Esquivel Espinoza

Plans: Business at Central Wyoming College

Anabel Phillips

Parents: Florence McCall and Wayne Phillips Plans: Ceramics at CU Boulder Activities: NAHS, Varsity Hockey, Teton Pines Worker, AP art student

Karla Ramos Perez

Parents: Juan Carlos Ramos Tzompa and Suly Perez Olvera Plans: University of Wyoming Activities: Tlaxcala Intercambio, Peer Advocates

Abby Rogers

Parents: Jenny and Tim Rogers

Plans: Kinesiology and business at University of Utah Activities: Key Club, GAP (Girls Actively Participating), JH Lacrosse Club coach

Bruno Mendoza

Parents: Gabriela Mendoza and Angel Perez Plans: Gap year

Carlos Popocatl

Parents: Sandra Bautista Marcelo Popocatl and Marcello Popocatl Diaz Plans: Work Activities: DECA

Kasey Ramos Perez

Parents: Mayra Perez Olvera

Plans: Criminal justice and political science at Regis University Activities: Peer Advocates, Tlaxcala Intercambio Club, Key Club

Diego Romero Cortes

Parents: Maria C Romero Cortes and Gerardo Corona Armas Plans: Mechanical engineering at University of Wyoming

Yareth Saldana Perez

Parents: Margarito Sanchez Sanchez Plans: Gap year Activities: JHHS Swim, JHHS Track

Colton Prince

Parents: Danielle and Elton Prince Plans: Gap year Activities: Football, FCA

Lily Remlinger

Parents: Brian and Maddy Remlinger Plans: Biological sciences at Cal Poly SLO Honors College Activities: Students for Sustainability, Key Club, National Honors Society, Youth Philanthropy, soccer

Armando Romero Tzompa

Parents: Patricia Tzompa Ramirez and Armando Romero Garcia Plans: Job Corps in Riverton Activities: Boxing

Parents:

Sanchez Vazquez

and

Sofia Peterson-Olivares

Parents: Daniela and Ryan Peterson

Plans: Special education and philosophy at University of Montana

Activities: Varsity Softball, Varsity Dance, All-American Dance, volunteer hours, Foundation Grants committee member

Camila Ramirez Carrillo

Parents: Columba Carrillo Martinez and Rafael Ramirez Franco

Plans: Paul Mitchell Cosmetology and Beauty School followed by business at Central Wyoming College Activities: Varsity Basketball, Varsity Track

Bryson Rhodes

Parents: Rachelle and Ben Rhodes

Plans: University of Utah Activities: Mountaineering Club, Track and Field

Harlie Rommel

Parents: Katie Rommel and Kevin Cristando

Plans: Soccer and elementary education at Gillette College Activities: Varsity Soccer starter, Varsity Basketball

Luisa Sartillo Mejia

Parents: Mariana Mejía Gastón and Noé Sartillo Hernández

Plans: Colorado State University

Activities: NHS, Student School Board, Student Senate, Key Club, Dance team, worked at 3 Creek and Liberty Burger

Colton Petsch

Parents: Sara and Wayne Petsch

Plans: Exercise science at Fort Lewis

College Activities: Varsity NICA, Varsity Track, band

Erick Ramirez

Parents: Arturo and Evangelina Ramirez

Plans: Transition Academy Activities: Best Buddies

Paul Rodríguez

Parents: Fransisco Rodriguez and Yoshely Meneses Saldana

Plans: University of Wyoming

Activities: Business entrepreneur

Jack Rubio

Parents: Silvino Rubio and Mariela Meza

Plans: Casper College/undecided

Activities: Building Broncs

Conner Scott

Parents: Jennifer and Matthew Scott

Plans: Football and business at Caroll College

Activities: Varsity Football, hockey, Track and Field

Tylee Scott

Parents: Chrystal Lopez

Plans: University of Montana Activities: Speech and Debate Team, Model UN

Somers

Parents: Heidi and Matthew Somers

Plans: Health science at Point Loma Nazarane University

Activities: NAHS, JHHS FCA Chapter founder and leader, Varsity Girls Hockey captain, All State Goalie Award for two years, Varsity Tennis

Lily Steinberg

Parents: Emilie and Ethan Steinberg

Plans: Duke University

Activities: Model UN, Student Council, Key Club, Best Buddies, NHS, Book Club, soccer, ski racing, Spark

Maren Tattersall

Parents: Ashton and Jason Tattersall

Plans: Swim at Pitzer College

Activities: Club and JHHS Swim Team, Students For Sustainability Club, National Honor Society, Wyoming AllState Athlete

Belen Trejo Juarez

Parents: Gilberto Trejo and Ortencia Juarez

Plans: Cosmetology

Activities: Latina Leadership Club

Charlie Sinclair

Parents: Tyler and Jessica Sinclair

Plans: Gap year to play Junior hockey, then college Activities: Hockey, fly-fishing, golf, spending time with family and friends

Sarely Sosa Parents: Araceli Cruz and Eloy Sosa Plans: Trade and vocational school Activities: AVID

Walter Stradley

Parents: Jill and Jerred Stradley Plans: Growing landscaping company in Jackson Activities: DECA competitor, third in state for independent business plan

Ocia Terrapin

Parents: Amelia Terrapin, Alan Bush and Erik Lindquist

Plans: Nursing at OSU-Cascades Activities: Music Society, soccer, track, sports and physical therapy, Speech and Debate Team

Johnny Turner

Parents: Tote and Christine Turner

Plans: Gonzaga University

Activities: Jackson Hole Youth Hockey, Teton Literacy tutor, JHHS Track and Field

Maya Smith

Parents: Dana and Scott Smith

Plans: Environmental earth and soil sciences at Cal Poly

Activities: Speech and Debate Team, Key Club, NAHS, G-Force, Building Broncs, dual immersion

Luiz Sosa Perez

Parents: José Luis Sosa Sánchez and Dulce Tzompa Pérez

Plans: Criminal justice at Central Wyoming College and work

Ellie Stubbs

Parents: David Stubbs and Bille Metzger

Plans: Montana State University

Activities: Student Body president, Sustainability Club, Rotary Interact Club, Mountaineering Club, GAP (Girls Actively Participating)

Ryan Thompson

Parents: Todd and Robyn Thompson

Plans: LDS mission in East Dallas, Texas

Activities: Ski touring, JHSC Nordic, mountain biking, running, dirt biking, fishing

Emily Tzompa

Parents: Elizabeth Tzompa Hernandez

Plans: Weber State University

Activities: Key Club, Student Council, Tlaxcala Intercambio, Model UN, NHS, internships, volunteering

Oliver Smith

Parents: Justin and Suzanne Smith

Plans: Business and art at Montana State University Activities: Skiing, skateboarding, art

Eugene Spankie

Parents: Gretchen and Craig Spankie

Plans: Swimming and environmental science at Bridgewater College

Activities: High School Swimming captain, Club Swimming, Students for Sustainability, National Art Honor Society, Wyldlife leader, Younglife, Fellowship of Christian Athletes

Robert Sunko

Parents: Wade and Alessandra Sunko

Plans: Montana State University Activities: Photography, Outdoor Leadership, Tribe Youth Group

Amelia Toups

Parents: Gena Calegari, Adam Toups and Kris Greenville

Plans: Psychology and nutrition sciences at Montana State University Activities: Diving and Building Broncs

Parents: Yone Selene Garcia Romano and Luis Tzompa Ramirez

Plans: Universal Technical Institute Activities: JHHS Soccer

Titus Tustin

Parents: Nicole Fowler

Plans: Basketball at Carroll College Activities: Basketball state finalist for two years, FCA and DECA officer

Parents: Sarah Uptain

Plans: Nursing pre-requisites at Central Wyoming College

Finn Varga

Parents: Dustin and Carrie Varga

Plans: Film at University of Utah Activities: Snowboarding

Violeta Vazquez Vazquez

Parents: Norma Vazquez

Plans: Global media and communication arts at Woosong University in Korea

Activities: Rotary Youth Exchange, JHHS and JHYO Orchestra, All State Music, community radio dj, volunteer at Center for the Arts

Malcolm Welch

Parents: Mike and Diana Welch

Plans: Cal Poly

Activities: JHHS Nordic, Jackson Hole Youth Mountain Biking

Parents: Sarah and Eric Wilson

Plans: University of Michigan

Activities: Lacrosse, Model UN, NHS, NAHS, Key Club

Jenna Yarrow

Parents: Shannon and Jamie Yarrow

Plans: Public policy at University of Maryland

Activities: Student Body vice president, Key Club, Student Senate, lacrosse, Speech and Debate Team, Building Broncs leader

Chris Vazquez

Parents: Javier Vazquez and Angelica Hernandez Plans: University of Wyoming

Ricardo Villanueva

Parents: Veronica Ordonez

Plans: University of Wyoming Activities: Swimming, climbing, NHS, MUN, photography

Ellie Wheeler

Parents: Keri and Albert Wheeler

Plans: Track and English literature at Bates College Activities: Cross-country, track, Nordic

Lucy Wirth

Parents: Kellie and Adam Wirth

Plans: Gap year to ski race with the Western Region Development Team

Activities: National Honor Society, Students For Sustainability, Mountaineering/Climbing Club, Jackson Hole Ski Club

Sita Yeomans

Parents: Jessica and Brook Yeomans

Plans: University of Puget Sound Activities: Soccer, Nordic, Students For Sustainability, Key Club, cross country

Ileny Vazquez

Parents: Claudia Romero and Chris Tobar Plans: Gap year

Elijah Waldron

Parents: Michelle Butler and Noah Waldron Plans: Gap year followed by WyoTech

Leah Wilber

Parents: Shannon Olmsted and Matthew Wilber

Plans: Gap year to travel and work followed by Colorado State University Activities: National Honor Society

Dylan Witherite

Parents: Janene and Mike Witherite

Plans: Lacrosse at Monmouth University

Activities: Alpine skiing, lacrosse, SPARK, Best Buddies, volunteering

Noah Zeleznik

Parents: Aimee and Matt Zeleznik

Plans: Vanderbilt University

Activities: Football, hockey, NHS copresident

Jairi Vazquez Vargas

Parents: Javier Vazquez Lopez and Karina Vargas Montiel Plans: Laramie County Community College Activities: Varsity Soccer

Cayden Walles

Parents: Mackenzie and Brooke Walles

Plans: California Polytechnic State University Activities: Football, Teton County Weed and Pest lab internship, Teton Literacy Center tutor

Josh Wilcox

Parents: Eric and Rebecca Wilcox

Plans: Construction management at University of Wyoming Activities: Football

Sabrina Wronko

Parents: Aaron and Sarah Wronko

Plans: California Baptist University

Activities: Mountaineering Club, orchestra, band

Parents: Katrina Zepp Plans: Work

Sofia Vazquez Baez

Parents: Angelica Baez and Marcelino Vazquez

Plans: Hospitality at Metropolitan State University of Denver Activities: Key Club, Basketball Team

Parents: Andy and Andrea Weenig

Plans: Biomedical engineering at Hobart and William Smith College

Activities: Nordic skiing, Track and Field, JH Youth Mountain Bike Team

Ellison Wild

Parents: Carrie and Chris Wild

Plans: Gap year to travel and work

Activities: National Art Honor Society, Student Council

Parents: Jorge Xiloj

Plans: Work

Summit Innovations School

5 p.m., June 4, Center for the Arts

Jamilet Castro Luna

Parents: Maribella Luna

Plans: University of Wyoming

Activities: Ski Club, Latina Leadership, Baking Club, Peer Advocates

Jackson Hole Classical Academy

2 p.m., June 5, Classical Academy Campus

Arleth Marysol Corral Cisneros

Parents: Karina Cisneros Torres and Juan Corral Sayas

Plans: Children’s Learning Center followed by studying early childhood education Activities: Baking Club, Yearbook, Latina Leadership

Erik Rios

Parents: Saul Rios and Nubia Hernandez Plans: Work and internship

Trinity Green

Parents: Kollin and Jennifer Green

Plans: Gap year and attend Youth with a Mission in Honolulu, Hawaii for six months, followed by kinesiology at University of Wyoming

Scarlet Dillon

Parents: Angel Wise Plans: Work in Oregon

Shacel Machuca Salmoran

Parents: Guadalupe Machuca Salmoran

Plans: CWC Bridge Program at Central Wyoming College Activities: Baking Club, Yearbook, Ski Club

Bill Robinson

Parents: Jonathan and Jackie Robinson and Elizabeth Browne

Plans: Swimming and mechanical engineering at Wheaton College Activities: Competitive swimming, Eagle Scout, lifeguard, piano, violin

Parents: Aleida Gongora

Plans: Gap year Activities: Ski Club, Baking Club

Emanuel Almanza Sedano

Parents: Ana L Sedano and Monico Almanza

Plans: CWC Bridge Program at Central Wyoming College

Activities: Baking Club, Publications/ Yearbook

Isaac Zderski

Parents: Adam and Lee Zderski

Plans: Mathematics at Rose Hulman Institute of Technology

Activities: Speech and Debate, Victor Emporium lead assistant

Scholarships set seniors up for success

By Jasmine Hall

STATE GOVERNMENT REPORTER

Teens receive 221 awards totaling $1.39 million in aid for higher education.

Mack McFarland couldn’t have been more proud of the senior who the Moran Volunteer Firefighters Association picked this year to receive the Bill Holda Memorial Scholarship.

After Grand Teton National Park Ranger Holda passed away, his wife donated funds to the association in lieu of flowers, McFarland said. The association then used the donation as a nest egg for the scholarship to support future graduating classes associated with Grand Teton National Park, the northern end of Jackson Hole or Jackson Hole Fire/ EMS.

Jackson Hole High School senior Colton Petsch grew up in Grand Teton.

“Colton fit the bill as a child of two park service employees,” McFarland said.

He and Petsch, as well as his family, go way back.

McFarland has served as a National Park Service firefighter for decades and Petsch grew up around him. Petsch’s father was a firefight -

Jackson Hole Community School

SCHOLARSHIPS

continued from 13

er in Grand Teton National Park for 25 years and his mother is a park ranger. McFarland said he even occasionally sees Petsch at the offi ce where he used to work.

He was even happier to hang out in the Jackson Hole High School gymnasium on April 21 after Petsch was awarded his scholarship.

“It’s an amazing night for the community,” McFarland said.

Petsch was just as excited. He said the scholarship meant a lot to him because of his parents’ service, but he has plans of his own. He’ll attend Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado, and hopes to return to the Tetons in the summers to work in fi re.

“I want to actually go out and help,” Petsch said.

Heartfelt community interactions like McFarland’s and Petsch’s fi lled the gymnasium. Students told organization members about their plans for after graduation, what the scholarship would help them accomplish and in some cases, how their lives had been changed.

Nairi Escobar Sanchez, a Jackson Hole High School senior headed off to the University of Denver to study political science, said her scholarships would help her go to college.

“I’m really grateful for all these opportunities,” she said. “They’re super generous. I’m very thankful that they spend so much time donating and getting to meet us and getting to really know us as people. That’s very special.”

This year, the Teton County Scholarship Program — organized by the Education Foundation of Jackson Hole, formerly the Fund for Public Education — continued to break records.

A total of $1.39 million was awarded to 103 seniors. Last year, $1.2 million was given out.

Scholarship list will no longer be published

In the past, the Jackson Hole News&Guide has included the entire list of scholarships and recipients for the Teton County Scholarship Program, most recently in the senior section. This will no longer be the case.

After careful consideration, the Education Foundation of Jackson Hole, formerly the Fund for Public Education, and its nine-person board voted unanimously this year not to release a list of scholarship recipients or award pairings.

“Our program serves the entire graduating class, and although we are proud to celebrate those who received awards, we are also mindful of the students who did not,” Scholarship

Director Kristine Harris said in an email.

“Publicizing names in a public forum can unintentionally draw attention to who was and was not selected, and protecting the dignity of every student in our community is a responsibility we take seriously.”

Harris said the foundation encourages donors to share award announcements through their own channels.

the importance of this before students found out what they had earned. He said $37,000 is the average student debt carried by a college graduate in the U.S. today.

“I’m really grateful for all these opportunities. They’re super generous.”

— Nairi Escobar Sanchez

There were 62 donors, 77 scholarships and 221 individual awards to support stude nts on the next phase of their lives.

The awards celebrate student achievements ranging from academics to athletics to community service to resilience in the face of adversity.

The scholarships also helped students avoid some, if not all, debt to achieve higher education.

Teton County School D istrict Superintendent Scott Crisp stressed

A Blessing for the Graduate

May you be spared the courage to have it all mapped out, and given the courage to begin anyway.

For the ones stepping out with a degree in hand and a future that feels both wide and oddly undefined, may you be spared the pressure to have it all mapped out, and given the courage to begin anyway.

For the plans that will shift— quietly or all at once— may you not read that as failure, but as the ordinary work of building a life that rarely follows a clean outline.

For the moments when you wonder if you chose right, or if everyone else knows something you don’t, may you remember that uncertainty is not a flaw, but a sign you are paying attention.

And for what you carry forward— your questions, your hopes, your unfinished self— may you find people and places that can hold them with you, and enough steady ground beneath you to take the next step, and then the next.

KATE BOWLER

“Write that number down,” he said. “Now double it. Because here what the most important thing to realize is that $37,000 at 6.5% interest repaid over 20 years doesn’t actually cost $37,000. It’s going to cost you about $66,000. That’s the true price of not reading the fi ne print.”

Crisp said debt is not the enemy, but rather “ignorance of debt.”

“You are sitting in a room full of people who believe you are capable of building lives of meaning, purpose and genuine financial freedom,” Crisp said. “The path there begins with asking smart questions, running real math and never borrowing more than you truly understand.”

Contact Jasmine Hall at 307-7327063 or state@jhnewsandguide.com.

From the Congratulations to the Class of 2026!

Brooke graduated from Cherry Creek HS (CO) and will attend SUNY Potsdam majoring in Trumpet Performance, Sports Psych, and will play NCAA D3 Hockey

Brilliance must be in your genes. Congrats Liam!! With love from Nini

University of Puget Sound for football and NOLS. We are so proud of you Rig and know you are going to do BIG things! Love Mom, Dad and Riley

Congratulations Andy! We are so proud of you. Love dad, mom, Josh, Kate and Grandpa and Grandma

After working with some Wyoming representatives this summer, Elaina is headed to Regent University in Virginia to study political science and pre-law.

Congratulations Noah on a wonderful 4 years of High School! Cherish the amazing memories and friendships you created along the way. Love, D,M,R,H

So excited for your next adventure in CO to study Quantitative Biosciences & Engineering! You truly are a remarkable young man. Love Mom, Dad, & Gavin

Attending University of Puget Sound. Studying Music and Marine Biology

To our incredible daughter Norah, Congratulations!! We are so proud of all that you have accomplished and all that is to come! Love, Mom, Dad & Laine

Teddy will be attending the McDaniels School of Business at the University of Denver. We are so proud of this amazing group of kids. Congrats Teddy!!

Congratulations Laney! Dream big, work hard, and never lose your spark! With love, Mom, Dad, Parker, Grandma, Grandpa, Uncle Todd, Bridger, & Finnley

University of Colorado

We’re so proud of you! Lots of love, Vonn, Mom and Dad

in

P aits education

By Jasmine Hall STATE GOVERNMENT REPORTER

Every graduate in the class of 2026 has left a mark on the Jackson community.

But now they are ready for their next adventure. These seniors are set to travel and study internationally, take to the seas and the skies, explore their passions, expand their minds — always while carrying with them the lessons they’ve learned in the Tetons.

They are leaving behind families and community members who plan to support them in the next step.

Here’s a small sample of the standout stories, lessons and memories from the class of 2026.

— Jasmine Hall

Madison takes flight

When Madison Earl was 11, her mother asked her what she wanted to be when she grew up. Earl said she listed all of her goals for adulthood, like being able to travel, meet new people and try new foods. Her first instinct was to become a food truck driver.

“My mom thought that was wonderful,” said Earl, now a 17-year-old senior. “But maybe I should expand my options. My mom was finally able to convince me that I might like being a pilot more, with the fact that I wouldn’t have to do as many dishes.”

On Earl’s 12th birthday, she took her first flying lesson.

“I couldn’t stop smiling,” she said. “It sounds silly, but it makes you feel like you’re escaping the real world. When I’m flying, I get to be above all my problems and worries.”

After she graduates high school this June, she’ll head off to Louisiana Tech University to join its professional aviation program. When she’s finished, she’ll have the necessary certificates and license to become a commercial pilot.

But Earl has already gained relevant experience in high school. One of her favorite classes was an aerospace engineering and aviation class, where she got to practice on simulators and learn about the fundamentals and history of flight.

Outside of flying, Earl competed at the national level in Speech and Debate, was a National Honor Society member and made incredible friends.

See PORTRAITS IN EDUCATION on 18

And to all the graduating seniors who have been a part of our 'one big circle, with everybody in it' including:

P ai in education

Bryce wrenches way into vocation

One of Hiland “Bryce” Fralin’s proudest moments in his high school career was bringing his 1978 Chevrolet K10 back to life.

Fralin, 17, worked and saved money for two summers to buy the truck, knowing that he’d also have to figure out how to get it up and running. But he was inspired by the long line of mechanics who came before him in his family.

His grandfather, a dairy farmer who worked on all of his own vehicles and machines, taught Fralin’s uncles how to fix cars.

“One of my uncles really hooked onto it,” Fralin said. “He’s been building classics his whole life. He built his first car like I did.”

Then Fralin’s uncle went on to teach him how to work on his own “Palisades camo” Chevy. The rebuilding process took two years and a lot of problem solving. Fralin said he couldn’t wait to show his uncle the finished product and said he was happy to see his uncle behind the wheel.

Fralin’s passion project wasn’t the only hands-on experience he got in school. In his senior year, he did an internship at Levi’s Auto and got to dive even deeper into repairing and taking care of cars. He was offered a job after graduation and will continue his education to become a professional mechanic.

“It’s been a lot of fun,” he said.

Congrats to The Fellas!

P ai in education

Sisterhood supports fellow swimmers

McCullough Frobouck got to experience a special kind of “sisterhood” before graduating high school.

She was on the Jackson Hole High School swim team, as well as the club team, all four years, capping off senior year as captain. Frobouck, 18, helped lead her team to win at state this fall.

“Our coach works to create this sisterhood and family connection,” she said. “It’s special that we are all there for each other. It doesn’t matter if you’re the fastest person in the water or the slowest.”

Frobouck said not only do the girls cheer each other on at the end of their lanes during swim competitions, they are there for each other outside of the pool, too. The swim season ended in November and she said her teammates still hang out and show up for one another if one of them is having a hard time. She expects they will have each other’s backs after graduation, too.

“It creates another outlet for people to have that sense of support if they need it,” she said.

Another important community that Frobouck built was through her dual immersion classes since kindergarten. When she graduates and heads off to the University of Virginia, she’ll have earned a dual high school diploma in English and Spanish.

Frobouck has been a dedicated student athlete, Rotary Interact Club president and a community volunteer. She also overcame health challenges with the support of her teachers, family, friends and the high school nurse.

Her main takeaway from her education experience: Perfection and the best grades aren’t everything.

“I’ve learned through four years here that it’s not all about that,” she said. “It’s more about learning and enjoying what I’m learning, and being proud of my work.”

P ai in education

Sports, Spanish and Socrates

Will Geittmann, 18, has learned perseverance.

He said you have to let go of the need to have all the answers and fear about how things will end up. Instead, he said it’s up to you to realize that all you can control is the effort and commitment you put into your goals.

“A lot in life is just blind trust,” Geittmann said.

He played five varsity sports and participated in four clubs, including one he started himself, completed the dual immersion Spanish program, earned his pilot’s license and also made time for internships.

One of the highlights of his last two years in high school was seeing his Socrates Club come to fruition. The club revolves around using the Socratic Method to discuss global and U.S. current events and local community topics, such as the war in Iran, immigration enforcement, the federal budget deficit, data centers, public lands and more.

Geittmann said he wanted to find a way to encourage young adults to communicate with each other “in an appropriate way about things they care about.” He felt it was his call to action to tackle the issue in high school.

When it first started, he said no one felt comfortable talking. Now, students bring their ideas to the table.

“I’m proud to say, not once in the two years have I seen anyone try to fight any-

one else,” he said. “It’s been super respectful.”

After graduation, he’ll attend the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. He was drawn in by the like-minded leadership and students at the academy,

as well as the culture. Geittmann hopes to fly planes for the Navy, a dream for a little kid who used to dress up in a Top Gun costume.

“I’m pretty excited to get pushed to try things I’ve never tried before,” he said.

P ai in education

Building a career from the ground up

Parker Gotham, 17, loves to get outside.

All four years of high school, he was on the varsity Nordic ski team. He downhill skiied, snowmobiled and competed on the mountain bike racing team.

Gotham also earned his Eagle Scout status. He built two freestanding ski racks, which can hold around 100 pairs of skis, and a donation shed for Coombs Outdoors, a nonprofit that reduces barriers to youth experiencing the outdoors.

“We live in such a cool place,” Gotham said. “Not many other places in the world can you actually do all those sports throughout the season.”

One of his standout memories was winning state with the Nordic team. He said the team is where he’s found his community, which has been cultivated well by Coach Andrew Siegel.

“You can get help with anything through them,” Gotham said. “It’s just really good community.”

After graduation, he plans to attend the University of Wyoming and study construction management.

Gotham got the opportunity to figure out what career he wanted to step into because of his work-based learning internships and Career and Technical Education courses. He said he left school two hours early twice a week to intern at Shaw Construction, the Teton County Sheriff’s Office and the Teton County School District bus barn throughout his high school career.

“It was really valuable,” he said about his most recent construction internship. “I always kind of liked the idea of being able to watch a building go up and stepping back at the end and being like, ‘Oh wow, I helped build that.’”

P ai in education

Changing the system from within

Kasey Ramos Perez’s mother is her biggest cheerleader.

“She’s my motivator,” Ramos Perez, 18, said. “She’s the person that I most want to make proud, as well as myself.”

When Ramos Perez attends Regis University in Denver this fall, she said she’ll be accomplishing both of their dreams. Ramos Perez said her single mother migrated to the U.S. from Mexico so that she and her brother could get a good education. She’ll be the first in her family to go to college.

She plans to study criminal justice and political science. Her favorite class in high school was government — adding to her passion for learning how democracy functions and staying in the know on current events — and she interned at the Teton County Sheriff’s Department. Ramos Perez said she’s been offered a job when she returns.

“I want to do things right and change the system from within,” she said.

Along with the support of her family, Ramos Perez said college wouldn’t be possible without the help of the community. She received six scholarships, including from the Avid Dreams Club at 3 Creek, Davey Jackson Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution, First In Family, Jackson Hole Law Enforcement, Peer Advocates and Rotary Club of Jackson Hole Foundation.

“If you want to do something, you’ll have support,” she said. “You’re not alone.”

She said words can’t express her gratitude to all her supporters.

“I’m set on my goals and set on what I need to do,” she said. “I’m just excited. I’m waiting for the time to leave so I can get started.”

Congratulations, Coombs Grads!

Coombs Outdoors is proud to celebrate these students as they head off on new adventures. We have watched them grow into strong, capable leaders and can’t wait to see where life takes them!

Alberto Rosales • Aridai Perez Barba • Cristina Lopez Palacios • Camila Ramirez Carrillo • Diego Jaimes • Diego Romero Cortes • Dulce Bedolla Mendez • Dylan Cuapantecatl Zarate • Edgar Lopez Rios • Forest Smithmen • Gabriel Zaid Hernandez Cabello • Imanol Loaeza Ponce • Jamilet Castro Luna • Jamison Aughenbaugh • Jared Lopez Garcia • Jesus Huerta • Jordy Vazquez Hernandez • Jovany Perez Esquivel • Luisa Sartillo Mejia • Michael Klein Cruz • Nicole Lopez Hernandez • Oswaldo Rodriguez • Ricardo Villanueva • Sebastian Gaurneros Karam • Shirley Delgado Rosales

P ai in education

Travel

opens eyes, doors for violinist

Violeta Vazquez Vazquez, 18, got her first taste of learning abroad in high school.

As a participant in the Rotary Club’s exchange program, she was a student in Thailand for 10 months during her junior year. She considers it one of her favorite experiences before college, as she built strong relationships, learned another language and dove into deep topics with the other students.

She also said she liked the fact that her teachers were from many different countries and found herself more curious because they had different perspectives to share.

“It was very mind opening,” she said.

Vazquez Vazquez said the respect that everyone showed to one another also stood out to her.

“Everyone acknowledges that they’re human,” she said.

Vazquez Vazquez isn’t done furthering her education in an international environment. She’ll be studying global media and digital studies at Woosong University in South Korea, made possible in part by the Rotary Club’s Bill Baxter scholarship.

She already understands the language and can’t wait to immerse herself further in the culture.

“That’s where a lot of my music tastes came from, especially when I was in middle school,” Vazquez Vazquez, a member of the community and high school orchestras, said. “I got into violin — into music internationally — right at that age. And that’s when I already started planning what I wanted to do with my life.”

STOP STOP THE TEXTS THE WRECKS

THE JOURNEY CONTINUES Congratulations to our 8 th-Grade Class of 2026

We’re proud to celebrate our 8th-grade students as they reach this exciting milestone at Mountain Academy and prepare for the journey ahead. Through years of learning, exploration, friendship, and challenge, these students have grown into thoughtful, resilient, and curious leaders. We can’t wait to see where their next chapter takes them.