As senior Kennedy Childress says goodbye to her time at Clover Hill High School, her talent and contributions to the school will be remembered. 

Outside of the big milestone and accomplishment of being a graduate, Kennedy is an editor for the Clover Hill Literary Magazine, has been mentioned in a county wide writing competition, and has also had several art pieces of hers displayed in an art show for Clover Hill.

Her passion in the arts is clear; Childress shared how all of the aspects it brings inspire the enjoyment she found in writing poetry.

“Poetry is my favorite genre to write because I find it really whimsical, it’s really artsy and I like anything art, in poetry you can use imagery, and be really creative with it,” Childress said.

Childress not only saw creative writing as a learning opportunity, but also as an open-minded and unique space.

“It’s a way to have everyone not feel judged, everybody in there has such an open mind that most opinions you have will be different from anyone else’s,” Childress said.

It’s common for students to experience feelings of anxiety when it comes to reaching out for help in an academic setting. At times being a high school student means being easily swayed or impressionable. With this, Childress shared some advice and a valuable lesson learned throughout her time in high school.

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions. I feel like most people are scared because they feel like it’ll come off as they don’t know anything, but asking questions can help with reassurance, also don’t be afraid to be different, stay true and do what you love, and don’t let anyone change that,” Childress said.

Most teens look forward to gaining more independence attending college; Childress expressed her excitement for this.

“I’m more excited to make my own decisions, because I like learning by myself and it’ll be nice not being criticized. It’ll be like a weight lifted,” Childress said.

A plan someone has for after graduation is often the most anticipated. After closing this chapter of her life, Childress plans on going to Brightpoint Community College to major in health science to pursue being an ultrasound technician.