Senior Leah Cepeda became the first female choir student from the school and the first student in nine years to join the 2019 Texas All-State Choir on Jan.19.

“It was such a humbling feeling knowing that all my hard work finally paid off,” Cepeda said.

Senior Roman Russell, who is in choir with her, said he’s been inspired by Cepeda and that she is very deserving of her spot on the All-State team.

“She’s a super great person and very talented,” Russell said. “She deserves to be on the state choir. She’s inspired me to be a better performer and a better person in general.”

Choir teacher Josi Alexander said she couldn’t be prouder of Cepeda for making it this far.

“Leah has had the heart to do this for a very long time,” Alexander said. “’She has the work ethic to do it and I’m not surprised that she made it. She put forth the work needed and Leah will have an impact for years to come.”

Cepeda will continue to represent the school on Feb.13-16, in San Antonio at the TMEA convention.

She said, “I now feel complete knowing I was able to contribute a part of myself to my school and make history before I graduate.”