One is headed to Sam Houston State University, the other to Texas A&M.
Both of Fairfield High School’s top students have plans to go into the field of medicine.
They are Valedictorian Jonathan Luiz Thomas and Salutatorian Elizabeth Sreynom Rath.
Jonathan is the son of Leon Thomas and Lisie Thomas, and is brother to David Thomas.
He graduates the FHS Class of 2023 with a 5.38 GPA.
Jonathan said he is very excited and honored to have earned the title of this year’s Valedictorian.
During his high school career at Fairfield, Jonathan was active in UIL Science, CX Debate, Drama Club, Beta Club, Interact Club and a member of the Grand Band from Eagle Land.
He was both an AP Student and DC Student, consistently making the “A” Honor Roll.
Outside of class, Jonathan worked in disaster relief and food drives. He attended church and participated in praise band.
Hobbies include reading and playing the trumpet.
His advice to underclassmen is this: “Make the best of young age to mature into a respectable person.”
A favorite teacher at FHS was Mr. Whitaker. “He inspired me to take social activities and responsibilities more seriously,” said Jonathan.
What he appreciated most about Fairfield High School was the staff and teachers, as they “urge and encourage students on their journey.”
Finally, Jonathan said, “To God be the glory for all my achievements.”
Jonathan Thomas plans to attend Sam Houston State University in Huntsville to study Biomedical Science as he looks toward becoming a doctor.
Elizabeth is the daughter of Jassyka Khou and Phally Rath, and is sister to Kimmaykay Rath.
She graduates the Class of 2023 with a 5.32 GPA.
“I’m very excited and surprised,” she said.
During her high school years, Elizabeth was active in Band, serving as Uniform Captain. She competed in UIL with One Act Play (OAP), Spelling, and Calculator.
Elizabeth was also active in Drama Club and the Beta Club.
She was named Band Sweetheart and was nominated as a member of the Homecoming Court.
Elizabeth’s hobbies include painting, scrapbooking, and reading.
Her advice to underclassmen is, “Don’t procrastinate. I promise that deadline will sneak up on you, so plan ahead and be prepared.”
A favorite teacher is her band director. “Mr. Holland has been my teacher for the past five years,” Elizabeth said. “He has seen me grow and he’s also trusted me wholeheartedly, which I appreciate.”
What does she appreciate most about Fairfield High School? The people!
“The teachers and my friends are what made my experience good,” said Elizabeth.
Elizabeth Rath plans to attend Texas A&M University in Bryan-College Station to study biology as she is planning to go into medicine.
Fairfield High School commencement will be held Friday, May 26, 2023 at Eagle Field beginning at 8:00 p.m.
