Stephanie Monterroso is a star student at Russellville High School. She is the Valedictorian for the Class of 2017, and the top is where she has always longed to be.
As the daughter of two immigrants, Monterroso was raised to have an exceptional work ethic and an appreciation for education. They left the familiarity of Guatemala in order to create a better life and future for their children. The amount of adversity they overcame (starting with the language barrier) inspires her daily. Leaving a life they were accustomed to was difficult, but it was worth it.
"I admire them for overcoming such adversity," Monterroso said, "so how am I not going to give my absolute best after they sacrificed so much to give me a better education and a better life?"
Both of Monterroso's children have prospered while attending Russellville High School. Their oldest child, Louis Monterroso, was salutatorian for the Class of 2014. He set the bar high for his younger sister, even challenging her to do better than he did, and by the grace of God she became the Valedictorian.
"To be named valedictorian is not only an absolute honor but a privilege," Stephanie said. "I am very proud to represent the Latin-American race in my community and in my school."
Monterroso has always been a hardworking student. From kindergarten to senior year, she has put her heart and soul into being the best student and community member she can be. She has spent many, many hours studying and doing homework. She has the work ethic of a champion.
Even her peers cannot ignore her determination and dedication. Monterroso was voted Who’s Who Most Likely to Succeed. She was also voted the 2016 Russellville High School Homecoming Queen. She won first alternate and the overall “A” average award at the 2017 Miss RHS Pageant. Everything she does, she does it with all of her being, and she serves as an excellent role model for the underclassmen.
Throughout her high school career she has been active in several clubs and has been elected as an officer in quite a few of them. She is a member of the ACT 28+/30+ Club, and she has served as the Mu Alpha Theta President, Spanish Club President, Library Media Book Lover’s Club President, Chemistry CLub Vice-President, FCCLA Vice-President, Peer Helpers Vice-President, SADD Secretary, Student Council Secretary, HOSA Treasurer, Christian Students United Projects Chairperson and Student Council Secretary and Grade Representative.
She has not shied away from being a well-rounded student. On top of clubs and a busy schedule, she still managed to become Co-Drum Major of the Marching Hundred, a band officer and win the Most Outstanding Band Award.
She has attended several conferences and leadership programs to enhance her ability to inspire others. She participated in the Franklin County Junior Leadership Program, received the Presidential Volunteer Bronze Award, represented Russellville High School as a HOBY Ambassador, and attended the National Young Leader’s Conference.
The faculty loves her as much as her fellow classmates do, and her drive to succeed does not go unnoticed. She is taking both Therapeutics and the Pharmacy Technician courses. She does double the work to gain extra experience before going off to college. HOSA sponsor and health sciences teacher Dr. Stephanie Oliver appreciates what Monterroso brings to the classroom.
“She is hardworking, excels academically and she can handle an above average workload,” Oliver said.
Monterroso has not yet chosen and institution to attend, but she is ready to take on the challenges that come along with going to college.
She wants next year’s seniors to remember to live in the moment because it all goes by so fast.
“Just enjoy high school while you still can,” Monterroso said.
