For Jaden Johnson, Clover Hill was “an amazing experience” that helped “[build] the man [that he] is today”. 

In his four years, Johnson was a part of everything he could participate in. From being a member of the boys soccer team to winning the Homecoming crown this past fall, Johnson did it all. 

In fact, one of Johnson’s favorite experiences was this year’s homecoming football game where he was crowned king in front of his friends and family. 

“I felt as if I was in a coming of age movie,” Johnson said. He then continued by stating that the memory of him walking across the football field will be a moment that he will remember for a very long time. 

Johnson has been a goalkeeper on the boys soccer team for two years. During his sophomore year, it looked as if he was going to be the starting goalkeeper for the junior varsity team, but due to COVID-19, the season was canceled and Johnson was forced to miss out on his opportunity.

While an ACL injury held him back from joining the team his junior year, Johnson was able to rejoin the club this season. Johnson lost out in the goalkeeper battle early this season, but when Johnson’s name has been called, he has delivered. In five games played in the regular season, Johnson has allowed zero goals.

However, beyond being a member of the soccer team and winning Homecoming king, some of Johnson’s fondest high school memories come from volunteering. 

“I participated… with The Village, [which is] a non-profit organization that works to provide [for] those in need” Johnson stated. 

The Village collects items such as clothes and toys, and packages up the items and gives them to the ones in need. 

“It was an amazing experience to do, as I got to do something bigger than [myself] and give back to the community,” Johnson said. 

In addition, Johnson worked with Ms. Clopton to create the community cafe.

 “The community cafe [is a space] where we work with ESL (English as a second language) kids to provide a place for them to practice English [and keep them involved with others],” Johnson said.   

Moving forward, Johnson will attend Norfolk State University (NSU), a historically black university (HBCU), in the upcoming school year and will be working towards a major in computer science. Johnson got offered “on a full ride” to attend the school. 

“I expect the next four years to be full of fun experiences with new people,” Johnson said. “I hope to better my mind and body, plus matriculate through the course and continue on the path to make a difference” Johnson concludes.