Zaylee Elizabeth Whitener was born on April 16, 2008, to Erin and Lance Ward. She has four siblings: Arie, Alissa, Arianna, and Kaylyn. Her favorite staff member is Ms. Trish because “she’s always there for me and willing to help with whatever I need.” If she had to describe herself in three words, she’d choose fun, adventurous, and loud. If she could travel anywhere in the world, it would be Bali, inspired by the beautiful pictures she’s seen. One of Zaylee’s favorite school memories is hanging out in advisory while sitting on the couch having serious talks. Her most embarrassing memory, however, was getting a concussion after accidentally running into a wall during a volleyball game at the Jackson Tournament.
As a child, Zaylee dreamed of becoming a Walmart door greeter, but after high school, she plans to attend college to become a radiologic technologist. She’s been involved in BETA, FBLA, PEP Club, and participates in Cheer and Track and Field. Her advice to underclassmen? “Suck up to the lunch ladies — they’ll always have your back and give you food.” When asked how she feels about graduating, Zaylee said, “Good, but also scared.” She’ll miss seeing her friends every day, but she’s proud that her biggest accomplishment will be passing all her classes and graduating. The person who has influenced her most is her dad, Lance, because “he’s always been my example of strength and hard work. He pushes me to be better every day and keeps me grounded with his advice and humor.”
Shoutouts: Mom, Dad, Arie, Grandma and Granny, Bill, Grandpa, Dessy, Zach, and Ben Gabriel.