Kate Stober started school at Gateway Christian School and finished her educational journey there as 2023 valedictorian.
“I was really surprised, but I was also really excited,” said Stober, of learning about her accomplishment. “I never really thought about being valedictorian, but I have always worked hard, so it’s an honour.”
A Gateway Christian School student since kindergarten, Stober has enjoyed being at the same school for 13 years.
“I love the community and I have never doubted how much my teachers care for me,” she said. “Walking through the hallways and you see all of your old teachers, they say, ‘hi,’ and still know about you – it’s really neat.
“I am really grateful for the support of my teachers at Gateway. They put so much into all of their students to make sure they find success.”
Something unique to Gateway high school students is that they attend Gateway for their core classes, and Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School for their options. They are fondly known as “Gurber” students. For Stober, this has also been a great experience, especially during her time on the high school basketball team.
“I’ve played basketball since I was in Grade 5. I really grew close to my team, especially this year, which made a big impact on my high school experience,” she said.
Graduation ceremonies for Gateway Christian School took place on June 29 at New Life Fellowship Christian Reformed Church.
As graduation approached, Stober said it was a good time to reflect.
“I feel a lot of things right now. I have always really liked high school, and I know earlier in the year I was not ready for it to be over, but I think now I feel at peace with how it’s all ending,” she said. “I’m really excited for what’s coming next.”
Looking ahead, Stober will be heading to Hawaii to take part in the Youth With A Mission program.
“It is a Bible College, mixed with mission work. I will be travelling somewhere in the world to complete the mission work, but I’m not sure where that will be yet,” she said. “I’ve known a lot of people who have gone through this program, and it sounds amazing. I am really excited.”
Gateway Christian School principal Geannette Lehman said Stober is a hard-working student, with a kind and caring heart towards others, who demonstrates a contagious enthusiasm and positive attitude.
“She has taken full advantage of the Gateway/Thurber partnership as an active student in both schools. As a result, she has maintained her success in academics while also pursuing excellence in athletics,” Lehman said. “Kate is well respected as a quiet and gracious leader among her peers. She is a wonderful representative of Gateway and we are very proud to have her as our Valedictorian this year.”
