Academic All-Star – Bethany Wood, Summit High

Published April 16, 2019

Few students have the kind of drive and determination possessed by Summit High School Academic All-Star Bethany Wood.

Despite dealing with incredible hardships this year, Bethany has shown an amazing amount of resilience and focus.

“Bethany has worked hard to finish high school a semester early,” said Summit High Principal Sarah Lamb. “She did this while taking care of her mom who passed away in November from cancer. Bethany is an amazing young woman, and we are proud to name her our Academic All-Star.”

Although it wasn’t easy, Bethany says putting in the work to graduate early was worth it.

“It has been a challenge,” said Bethany. “I have a job too, so I definitely learned a lot about time management. But honestly, that has helped prepare me for college. And the teachers and principals at Summit have been a huge support through everything.”

Despite being done with high school, Bethany won’t receive her diploma until May. In the meantime, she is attending classes through Columbia State.

“It’s so hard to know exactly what I want to do, but I think I’d like to pursue a career in the medical field,” said Bethany.

Earlier in the school year, Bethany’s classmates voted her Homecoming Queen.

“It was a really special experience,” said Bethany. “We had so much fun. It was definitely one of those moments I’ll never forget.”

Some of the groups and activities Bethany has been involved in at Summit include volleyball, HOSA and the Key Club. When she’s not at school or at work, Bethany prefers to hang out with friends. And while her time at Summit will be over soon, those who know her say Bethany has a bright future ahead of her.

“Bethany is just a really impressive person,” said Lamb. “We’re going to miss her, but we know she’s going to do great things.”