Language & Growth: Eric Rogers, WVHS Class of ‘26

Eric Rogers has spent four years at West Valley High School figuring out who he is, what he values, and how he wants to show up in the world. Now, as a graduating senior, he is ready to explore all the world has to offer.

Eric has strong ties to West Valley. He attended elementary school at Apple Valley, his older brother recently graduated from West Valley, and his father is a science teacher at West Valley Middle School.

Eric was deeply impacted by the friendships and positivity he found at Apple Valley, and notes that the encouragement of his high school advisor, Ms. Stuber, has been a driving force for him to succeed during his years at West Valley High School. He’s participated in Stuber’s Ram Strong class since he was a freshman, and shares, “She has always made an effort to make sure that everyone feels welcome. She is an amazing teacher and has been a very supportive and helpful part of my high school experience.”

Eric says one of his biggest achievements is teaching himself Japanese. He has studied German since the eighth grade, but he was taken with the idea of trying to learn a language all on his own. His interest in Japanese was the perfect fit! After rigorous study, his work paid off as he passed the Avant STAMP language skills exam to earn his Seal of Biliteracy in Japanese!  “It has been so much fun being able to have the time to teach myself a language that I love,” he shared. That kind of self-driven learning and exploration is exactly what West Valley aims to inspire.

Eric has been active in many areas of school life. He’s participated in band since the 5th grade, and he reflected that his first year of band at the high school was “so much fun and taught me so many things about music I didn’t know.”

Also during freshman year, Eric placed third in a local biology competition with a project called “What Grandma Would Do?” that featured his custom-built cardboard clock.

When Eric looks back on his time at West Valley High School, one lesson stands out above all others: Take Initiative. “You have to be in control of what you want to do with your life,” he said.

After graduation, Eric will attend Gonzaga University and is excited about the freedom to explore and grow. Congratulations, Eric – your curiosity, grit, and heart will take you far!