Kayley Shaner is the valedictorian of the Cleveland High School Class of 2022.

Kayley Shaner
Courtesy photo.

Here, she answers questions from the Observer.

What’s next for you?
After high school, I plan to attend UNM and study engineering. I don’t know what I want to do for a career yet, but I hope to explore my passions while taking college classes.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I see myself being an important part of my community and being able to take care of those I care about. I want to have the means to help other people.

What has remained the best incentive/program to keep you interested in school and graduating?
I really wanted to graduate high school.

In what class did you learn the most, as you envision your career?
My AP Psychology class has been influential in my views of the world and hence my desires for the future. I’m not sure what I will be doing for my career yet, but learning about the functions of the brain and how our minds work has been transformative for me.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received, and who gave it to you?
The best advice I received was from my ice skating coach, Laurie Bates. I was getting frustrated that I was unable to perform to expectations. I had imagined and complained about “not being good enough.”
To this, she asked me “What is good enough?” and proceeded to explain that some expectations are ridiculous and unmeetable. After this experience I have been a lot less harsh on myself for my mistakes and shortcomings, nothing will be good enough if I can’t be satisfied with what I already am.

What’s your best advice for underclassmen?
Mind your business and be kind. Kindness is a lot more important than you think it is.

If you could make one change in Rio Rancho Public Schools, what would it be?
I would fix the smell in the Cleveland High School cafeteria and provide the school with a sufficient amount of janitors.

Who or what played the biggest role in your success?
Had to have something to flex.