Lamar High valedictorian Jenna Darkazalli
It’s graduation season and we’re celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian for all eight Arlington ISD high schools. Meet Lamar High School valedictorian Jenna Darkazalli.
NAME: Jenna Darkazalli
SCHOOL: Lamar High School
COLLEGE: University of Texas at Austin
INTENDED MAJOR: Biology pre-med track
〉What is one piece of advice you would give an incoming freshman?
One piece of advice I would give to an incoming freshman is to stay organized. Whether it is using a planner, calendar, or an app, having a system to keep track of assignments and responsibilities makes managing high school much less stressful and helps you stay on top of everything.
〉What will you miss most about high school?
What I will miss most about high school is the constant support and guidance I received, especially from my counselor. Having someone who always encouraged me and helped me navigate challenges made a huge difference in my high school experience.
〉What are you most excited about after graduation?
I am most excited about starting a new chapter of my life in Austin. I look forward to meeting new people, gaining new experiences, and continuing to grow both academically and personally.
〉Who inspires you the most and why?
I am most inspired by my parents because of the sacrifices they made to give my siblings and me a better future. Leaving their home country and starting over in a completely foreign place took incredible strength and determination, and it is something I will always admire and be grateful for.
〉What’s your favorite high school memory?
My favorite high school memory would have to be the friendships I made during my senior year while earning our medical assistant certifications. We constantly supported and motivated one another, and the memories we created throughout the program made the experience unforgettable.