Nordheim valedictorian keeps positive outlook

By Allison Flores 

Yorktown News-View

Strongly finishing out an unpredictable senior year is Nordheim Class of 2020 valedictorian, Jakob Denton. 

With the loss of his father, David, in December, a knee injury shortly after, and the cancellation of the remainder of his senior year, Denton faced a harsh reality head-on. 

“Nothing [can] really put me down that much at this point,” stated Denton in response to the cancellation of school. “So I just took it as it was–can’t change it, just have to do what you can and keep on living.” 

Not only did the senior grab Nordheim’s top spot, but he was also involved in basketball, cross country, track, tennis, baseball, FFA, NHS, and student council. We can’t forget that Denton was also awarded the Eagle Scout honor at the start of 2020; typically, only 6% of Boy Scouts will reach the Eagle Scout honor

The top spot in Nordheim didn’t come without a little competition (friendly, of course) from salutatorian, David Torres.

“We always pushed each other to do better,” stated Denton about his pal. 

Whether it be academically or through sports, Denton and Torres worked to get each other through senior year, even earning the District 32-1A cross country championship at the start of the year. 

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