Spencer Asa-Michael Newbanks

As graduation approaches, Spencer Asa-Michael Newbanks is ready to move on to the next chapter of his life, one that’s already clearly on track. After high school, Spencer plans to begin working for BNSF Railway, with the goal of eventually driving trains, something he says he’s both excited and a little nervous about.

While college isn’t part of his current plan, Spencer has found his interests elsewhere. His favorite subject in school has been history, a class he enjoys for the way it brings the past to life and connects to real-world experiences.

That interest shows up in some of his favorite memories, too. One highlight of his high school years was visiting the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento, where he got to see the last surviving cab-forward steam locomotive. Another unforgettable moment was attending a Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert, combining his love for music with a unique live experience.

Outside of school, Spencer likes to keep things low-key. He spends his free time playing video games, watching YouTube, and listening to music, especially “Mephistopheles’ Return,” by Trans-Siberian Orchestra. When it comes to sports, golf is his favorite.

Spencer credits much of his personal inspiration to Peter Cullen, the voice actor behind Optimus Prime, whose message about being your best self has stuck with him over the years. That same mindset connects to the best advice Spencer says he’s received in high school: “Freedom is the right of every sentient being.”

Looking back, Spencer describes his high school experience in three words: “It changed me.” Though he admits he wishes he had known it would feel a bit boring at times, he still recognizes the impact it’s had on him.

When asked what advice he’d give to underclassmen, Spencer keeps it honest, encouraging them to make smart choices and not waste their time. If he could go back to his freshman year, he jokes that he’d tell himself to watch Beastars sooner.

As for graduation, Spencer says he won’t miss much, but he’s ready to move forward. In 10 years, he sees himself doing exactly what he’s aiming for now, working for BNSF and building a future on his own path.

Jacoby Adan Driskell

Jacoby Adan Driskell plans to attend Northwest Missouri State University, where she will major in Psychology and continue pursuing her passion for understanding and helping others.

Looking back on her high school years, Jacoby says she would tell her freshman self not to worry so much about the opinions of others and to stand up for more people. Her advice to underclassmen reflects that same mindset: don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try new things.

Outside the classroom, Jacoby enjoys dancing and spending time with friends. Among the many memories she has made throughout high school, attending state track with Landrey stands out as one of her favorites. When she imagines the future, Jacoby hopes that in 10 years she will “be married, have a job, and have kids.”

Jacoby credits her grandmother, Deb, as the person who has influenced her life the most. “My grandma Deb has been my biggest role model growing up because she is such a follower of Christ and a good person,” she says. Through her own leadership and kindness, Jacoby has also become a role model to many students at Rock Port High School. She served as dance captain during her junior year and went on to become both dance and cheer captain as a senior.

Music has also played an important role in Jacoby’s life. Her favorite song is “Funeral” by Phoebe Bridgers, and her senior quote comes from “Teenage Dream” by Olivia Rodrigo: “Will I spend all the rest of my years wishing I could go back?” The lyric captures the bittersweet emotions that often accompany the end of high school and the beginning of a new chapter.

Although Jacoby describes high school as “long, overwhelming, and hard,” she says the friendships she formed made every challenge worthwhile. Her friends are what she knows she will miss the most after graduation.

Jacoby’s favorite subject is math because she enjoys learning new concepts and taking the time to truly understand them. That curiosity, combined with her leadership, compassion, and determination, will undoubtedly guide her toward success in the years ahead.