LEISD 2026 Top Ten
Valedictorian—Faizah Cooper
Faizah Cooper has distinguished herself as an exceptional student leader and scholar throughout her time at Liberty-Eylau High School. The daughter of Angelia and Carlos Cooper, Faizah has been actively involved in numerous organizations, including Student Council, Leadership, Interact Club, the LEHS Advisory Committee, and the Student Leadership Council at Texarkana College. She has served as Senior Class Representative and held leadership roles in the National Honor Society as both Secretary and President. Faizah is also a member of Top Teens of America, TRIO, Las Amigas Debutantes, and was recognized as a 2026 Wilbur Award Nominee. As a dedicated member of the Drill Team, she will serve as Captain for the 2025–2026 school year.
Following graduation, Faizah plans to attend Texas A&M University–Texarkana, where she will major in Biology. Her ultimate goal is to become an OB-GYN, combining her passion for science and service to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.
Salutatorian—Maddax Moore
Maddax Moore has demonstrated excellence both in the classroom and on the baseball field throughout his high school career. The son of Amy Moore and the late Mickey Moore, Maddax has been a dedicated four-year varsity baseball player, earning numerous accolades, including All-District and All-State Tournament Team honors. In addition to his athletic achievements, he has been actively involved in Student Council, the National Honor Society, and the Student Advisory Committee, showcasing his commitment to leadership and service.
After graduation, Maddax plans to attend Southern Arkansas University, where he will pursue a degree in Engineering while continuing his baseball career at the collegiate level. With his strong work ethic, leadership abilities, and determination, Maddax is well-positioned for success both on the field and in his future profession.
3. Emily Garrett
Emily Garrett, daughter of Brandi Garrett and James Garrett, has excelled academically while remaining actively involved in a variety of extracurricular activities throughout her high school career. A dedicated student-athlete, Emily qualified for the Regional Tennis Tournament as a member of the varsity tennis team. She has also been an active participant in Theatre and UIL One Act Play, helping her team advance to the Bi-District level. In addition, Emily has contributed her talents and leadership through the National Honor Society, Academic UIL, Student Council, and Leadership.
After graduation, Emily plans to attend Texas A&M University–Texarkana, where she will major in Accounting. Her goal is to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), combining her strong academic foundation and determination to build a successful career in the business and financial field.
4. Jada Lane
Jada Lane, daughter of Katrina and Jerry Lane, has been a well-rounded and dedicated student who has made meaningful contributions both in and out of the classroom. Throughout her high school career, she has been actively involved in Choir, Band, and Color Guard, showcasing her commitment to the performing arts. Jada has also demonstrated strong leadership through her participation in Leadership, Student Council, the National Honor Society, Interact Club, TRIO, and as a member of the Homecoming Court. In addition, she has been honored as a Las Amigas Debutante, reflecting her dedication to service and community involvement.
Following graduation, Jada plans to attend Stephen F. Austin State University, where she will pursue a degree in Pre-Dentistry. Her ultimate goal is to become an orthodontist, combining her passion for helping others with her interest in healthcare. With her determination, leadership, and commitment to excellence, Jada is poised for a bright and successful future.
5. Ziven Banks
Ziven Banks, son of Stacy and Pe'Tree Banks, has been an outstanding student-athlete and leader throughout his high school career. A dedicated competitor, Ziven has participated in baseball for four years while also contributing to the basketball program. Beyond athletics, he has been actively involved in the National Honor Society, Student Council, Interact Club, and the LEHS Student Advisory Committee, demonstrating a strong commitment to leadership, service, and academic excellence.
Following graduation, Ziven plans to attend Baylor University, where he will major in Biology and pursue a pre-med track in preparation for medical school. His ultimate goal is to become a neurosurgeon, combining his passion for science, perseverance, and desire to help others through a career in medicine. With his determination and drive, Ziven is well-equipped to make a lasting impact in his chosen field.
6. Aniyah Green
Aniyah Green, daughter of Toya Clardy, has distinguished herself as a dedicated scholar, leader, and student-athlete throughout her high school career. Ranked sixth in her graduating class, Aniyah has been actively involved in numerous organizations, including the National Honor Society, Student Council, Leadership, Interact Club, Top Teens of America, LETV, and TRIO. She has also represented her school as a member of the Homecoming Court.
Aniyah's commitment to excellence extends beyond the classroom. She has been a member of the Drill Team for three years, serving as First Lieutenant, and has qualified for the Regional Powerlifting Meet for three consecutive years. Her involvement in a wide range of activities reflects her strong work ethic, leadership abilities, and dedication to personal growth.
After graduation, Aniyah plans to attend Prairie View A&M University, where she will pursue a degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology. She looks forward to using her education to make a positive impact in her community and build a successful career in her chosen field.
7. Zoe Evans
Zoe Evans, daughter of Hannah and James Evans, has been an active and accomplished student throughout her high school career. Her involvement in Theatre and UIL One Act Play has allowed her to showcase her creativity and passion for the performing arts, while her participation in Culinary Arts reflects her diverse interests and talents. Zoe has also excelled academically as a member of the National Honor Society, Yearbook staff, and Academic UIL, where she competed in News Writing, Headline Writing, and Feature Writing.
Following graduation, Zoe plans to attend Sam Houston State University to pursue a degree in Criminology. Her goal is to become a forensic scientist, combining her analytical skills and curiosity to contribute to the field of criminal investigations. With her dedication, creativity, and strong academic foundation, Zoe is well-prepared for success in her future endeavors.
8. Juaquin Guzman
Juaquin Guzman, son of Juan Guzman and Sonya Jiminez, has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and service throughout his high school career. He has been actively involved in Academic UIL, competing in Number Sense, Mathematics, and Accounting, showcasing his aptitude for problem-solving and analytical thinking. Juaquin has also participated in Spanish Club, Student Council, the National Honor Society, and Interact Club, reflecting his dedication to both leadership and community involvement.
A talented musician, Juaquin has been an integral part of the Marching Band and Jazz Band programs. His leadership and dedication earned him the role of Drum Major for two years, where he guided and inspired fellow band members while helping lead successful performances.
After graduation, Juaquin plans to attend The University of Texas at Tyler, where he will major in Computer Engineering. With his strong academic foundation, leadership experience, and passion for technology, Juaquin is well-prepared to excel in his future studies and career.
9. Carson Carrara
Carson Carrara, son of Kim and Keith Son, has built an impressive high school career marked by academic achievement, leadership, and involvement in a variety of extracurricular activities. He has been an active participant in Student Council, Spanish Club, the National Honor Society, Interact Club, Academic UIL, Science Club, and the Gifted & Talented program, demonstrating his commitment to both learning and service.
In addition to his academic pursuits, Carson has contributed his musical talents as a member of both the Band and Jazz Band programs. His wide range of interests and dedication to excellence have allowed him to make a positive impact throughout his high school years.
Following graduation, Carson plans to attend Texas A&M University–Texarkana, where he will major in Biology. He aspires to become a paleontologist, combining his passion for science and discovery to study prehistoric life and contribute to our understanding of Earth's history. With his curiosity, determination, and strong academic foundation, Carson is well-prepared for an exciting future in the sciences.
10. Jacob Hargrave
Jacob Hargrave, son of Allison and Jason Brown and Jennifer Billingsley and James Hargrave, has made the most of his high school experience through his involvement in academics, fine arts, athletics, and leadership. A talented musician, Jacob participated in Marching Band and Jazz Band for two years and earned the honor of performing with the prestigious 4-States Band Masters Concert Band. He also showcased his creativity and passion for the arts through Theatre and UIL One Act Play.
In addition to his fine arts accomplishments, Jacob has been an active member of the National Honor Society, Student Council, Interact Club, and Science Club. He also spent two years competing in baseball, demonstrating dedication and teamwork both on and off the field.
After graduation, Jacob plans to attend Texas A&M University–Texarkana, where he will major in Mass Communication. His goal is to build a career in movie production, combining his creativity, leadership skills, and passion for storytelling to make an impact in the entertainment industry. With his diverse experiences and determination, Jacob is well-prepared to pursue his dreams and achieve success in the future.
