Seguin salutatorian Lee Kerk
It’s graduation season and we’re celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian for all eight Arlington ISD high schools. Meet Seguin High School salutatorian Lee Kerk.
NAME: Lee Kerk
SCHOOL: Juan Seguin High School
COLLEGE: The University of Texas at Arlington
INTENDED MAJOR: Public Health
〉What is one piece of advice you would give an incoming freshman?
Get involved early and try different extracurricular activities because they can help you meet new people, build connections, and find things you genuinely enjoy. At the same time, do not overload yourself trying to do everything at once. Make sure to take care of yourself and get enough sleep every night because you will honestly be a lot happier and feel better overall.
〉What will you miss most about high school?
I will miss being able to see everyone I know every day. When I first started freshman year, I thought high school was going to feel slow, but now it feels crazy that it is already almost over. I’ll miss the familiar faces in the hallways, being part of orchestra, volunteering with people I knew through Key Club, and going to club meetings with friends. Those everyday moments felt normal at the time, but looking back, they are what made high school meaningful.
〉What are you most excited about after graduation?
I am most excited to continue my journey and keep working hard to become the best version of myself. I’m excited to learn new things, and continue growing through dedication and hard work while working toward the goals I have for my future.
〉Who inspires you the most and why?
My dad inspires me the most because he is one of the hardest-working people I know. Growing up, I saw how much effort and patience he put into supporting our family, even when things were not always easy. The way he keeps going and stays responsible makes me want to be like him. He has taught me that hard work is not just about one big moment, but about showing up every day and doing your best.
〉What’s your favorite high school memory?
One of my favorite memories was performing with my orchestra because it reminded me how much I had grown as a musician and how meaningful it was to be part of a group that worked hard together.