Student Body President Takaya Montez De Oca

Over the past year, our Student Body President, Takaya Montez De Oca, has served this school, along with it's students and staff, dutifully and without fail. As Student Body President, Taka meets with Ms. Disney and the Alumni Association every month. And, through public speaking and consulting the Student Council, he represents the student body with pride.

In his four years here, Taka's favorite part of Palmer overall is the diversity, which is a topic very near and dear to his heart. He stated, "Diversity means being open-minded and allowing for other perspectives to be accounted for...I appreciate the different perspectives a diverse population can bring, and it can strengthen a student population and the learning experience to have that diverse population...It also helps you for the future and being comfortable around people who are different than you."

Although Taka loved all of his time at Palmer, he said Senior year was his favorite because of it being the culmination of a high school career, in addition to all the fun events and dances you get to attend. Taka would like to leave some lasting advice and insight, not just for those who are going into their Senior year, but those who have all of high school to look forward to. "High school is a learning experience and academics is secondary to your social development. Also learning to work with others, being humble, and listening to what others have to say is extremely important. And even if times are hard, there will be good times to balance them all. Don't be too hard on yourself and most of all, allow high school to be a time where you can learn to work well with others and enjoy life."

By: Ian Schriener