They're No. 1: Notre Dame Regional High School valedictorians

The Southeast Missourian introduces you to the valedictorians of the Class of 2011. First up, Laura Schaefer and Will Brost of Notre Dame Regional High School.

Laura Schaefer

Hometown: Cape Girardeau

Parents: Ken and Kate Schaefer

Post-Graduation Plans: I haven't yet decided what I will be studying, but I plan on attending Southeast Missouri State University in the fall.

High School Activities: Garden Club president, French Club president, Encore, Math Club, Track and Field (2 years), Volleyball (1 year)

Honors: Academic Letter (4 years), Bright Flight

GPA: 4.22

Favorite High School Memory: Every year seniors at ND get a week of fun and antics. This year, one of the days was at Arena Park. We rode bikes, roller bladed, played sand volleyball and softball, and drew in chalk all over the road. It was just a fun, beautiful day where my class just got to chill together and play like kids again.

Favorite teacher and why: Mr. Kuper has been my math teacher for three years. He tests our limits every day and helps us realize our full potential as students.

Advice to incoming seniors: Don't let anything embarrass you. I promise it's not the end of the world if you say something silly and everyone looks at you like you're ridiculous.

What your prop says about you: Volleyball is kind of my go-to activity. I love playing and I've met so many wonderful people through the sport.

Will Brost

Hometown: Cape Girardeau

Parents: Dr. Kyle and Christina Brost

Post-Graduation Plans: Pursue a PhD in Mathematics and Murray State University, and teach mathematics at Notre Dame

High School Activities: Science Club, Concert Choir, Select Singers, Church League Basketball, Missouri Boys State

Honors: Co-Valedictorian, Missouri 100 Scholars, Summa Cum Laude, National Honor Society

GPA: 4.22

Favorite High School Memory: My marriage proposal for my Theology IV class and my false engagement to the lovely Mallory Young

Role model: My dad

What will you miss about High School?: All of my friends and the welcoming environment that Notre Dame provides.

What your prop says about you: I play about an hour of basketball every day. I enjoy the exercise, the thrill of competition, and the opportunity to share something in common with my friends, who are much more athletic and talented than myself, despite my flawless two-handed shot form.