Argyle High School’s Top Scholars 2025
Mattie Claire Echols — Valedictorian
How did you find out you were named Valedictorian, and what was your immediate reaction?
I was in Italy with my parents when we got the call. My friend KK FaceTimed me into the top 10 announcement meeting, and after my parents and I finished crying, we celebrated with gelato. It’s a moment I’ll never forget.
What did it take, day in, day out, to reach the top of your class?
I made sacrifices in nearly every area of my life, prioritizing studying over social events and maintaining a rigorous schedule through senior year. This accomplishment required huge time and energy. What made the difference was my genuine love of learning, a passion that Argyle ISD has always encouraged.
Which teachers and classes at Argyle ISD had the most impact on you, and how?
Argyle ISD has given me an amazing education, thanks to teachers like Coach Carter and Mrs. Hadley. Coach Carter’s mentorship in AP Physics taught me perseverance and pushed me to strive for excellence. Mrs. Hadley’s passion for literature in the UIL Literary Criticism class deepened my love for reading. Both of these teachers and their classes have shaped my high school experience.
Where are you headed after graduation, and what do you plan to study?
Next year, I will be attending Texas A&M University (Whoop!), where I will major in business. After I graduate, I plan to attend medical school and hope to one day open my own dermatology practice.
Cameron Bernard — Salutatorian
How did you find out you were officially the class of 2025 Salutatorian?
After our senior meeting, Mrs. Knowles asked the top 10 to stay behind. She began calling our ranks, starting with #10. When she finally called my name as Salutatorian, I was overwhelmed with relief and excitement. All that hard work had paid off!
What did it take to reach the top of your class?
I took 13 AP classes throughout high school and made the hard decision not to play varsity basketball my senior year just so I could take a higher-weighted class. It took me not having any free periods during my first semester senior year as well. It was tough seeing my friends leave early, knowing I had one more class to go.
Which teachers and classes at Argyle ISD had the most impact on you, and what was your favorite class at AHS?
I’ve been lucky to have many impactful teachers at AHS. Mr. Woody’s AP World History and AP Art History classes challenged me academically and prepared me for college, while his UIL Current Issues and Events class was a valuable learning experience. Mr. McNealy made AP Environmental Science enjoyable, and Coach Carter’s AP Physics class deepened my understanding of physics.
Where are you headed after graduation, and what do you plan to study?
Next year, I will attend the University of Texas at Austin and major in the Canfield Business Honors Program at the McCombs School of Business. HOOK ‘EM!
