2023 Senior Spotlight

Gabriella Anderson

Gabriella Anderson will be a 2023 Washburn District High School graduate and is the daughter of Sharon McLaughlin Whitmore and Jim Whitmore.

During her high school career, Gabbie has been involved in basketball and volleyball. During her senior year, Gabbie enrolled in the EMT program through the Caribou Tech Center. Through that program, she did a few clinical shifts at Presque Isle Fire Department.

Her favorite high school memory is during her sophomore year in criminal research. The class did a mock trial with partners and acted parts out. Whoever was trying to defend or prosecute would give you a look of disgust if you didn’t agree with them.

Gabbie is most proud of being able to get through her senior basketball season without an injury until the very end. Her favorite hobbies are skiing, snowboarding, being at the fire department, jet skiing in the summer and always harassing my cows.

After graduation, Gabbie plans to attend the Emergency Medical Services Program at NMCC.

Looking back on her years at WDHS, the person that had the biggest impact on Gabbie is Mrs. Hobbs because she helped her through the two years she was there. "In basketball, she never seemed to give up on me when I gave up on myself. She pushed me to do better and she made my senior season a good one. So thank you, Coach!"

Gabbie leaves WDHS with this quote from Coach Hobbs: “I can’t, should never be in your vocabulary.”

Katelynn Michelle Anderson

Katelyn Anderson will be a 2023 Washburn District High School graduate and is the daughter of Christine Conner.

Katelynn has been a member of the publications class, working on this year's yearbook. She has also attended the Food Services Program through Caribou Tech Center, where she has made tasty treats for class meetings and other activities.

Her favorite memory is making treats by herself for one of the classes. Katelynn is most proud of earning the highest honor roll in school, and her favorite hobby is drawing. Upon graduation, Katelynn plans to find a part-time job to help her sisters out.

Looking back on her time at WDHS, the person that has had the most impact on Katelynn is Mr. Bragg from her Food Services Program. Mr. Bragg taught her to work with the materials that are around her.

Katelyn leaves WDHS with this quote: "Don't hide who you are."

Ted Lawrence Clark

Ted Clark will be a 2023 graduate of Washburn District High School and is the son of Jason and Melissa Clark.

During his high school career, Ted has participated in the two year Farm Mechanics program and the FFA program through the Presque Isle Tech Center. He has also participated in the Advanced Woodworking class at WDHS.

His favorite high school memories involve any class he had with Chris and his favorite hobby includes anything with friends and family. After graduation, Ted plans to go to attend college studying Wind Power.

Looking back on his years at WDHS, the person that had the biggest impact on Ted is Chris because he's hardworking and aims to do the best of his ability at everything.

Parker McDuff Corey

Parker McDuff Corey will be a 2023 graduate of Washburn District High School and is the son of Billie & Ross Allen.

During his high school career, Parker has participated in varsity basketball, cross country, baseball, track & field, volleyball, woodworking club, varsity club, FFA, and NHS. Parker has aided students as a history tutor and volunteered with the rec department. He has also completed 16 college credits through the early college program.

His favorite high school memory is when his class got ultimate frisbee banned from PE class because they were too “competitive,” per Mr. P

Parker is most proud of getting inducted into the NHS as a sophomore and saving money by taking early college classes. His favorite hobbies are playing basketball, working out, and hanging out with friends in his spare time. After graduation, Parker plans to attend college at Husson University for a degree in Financial Advisory.

Looking back on his years at WDHS, the person that had the biggest impact on Parker is Mr.P because he has taught Parker many life lessons outside of the classroom that will be beneficial in his future. Mr. P. has given Parker so much motivation to always work hard and never give up.

Parker leaves WDHS with this quote: “So to any of us, whatever those things are: whatever it is we look up to, whatever it is we look forward to, and whoever it is we're chasin'. To that I say: Amen. To that, I say: Alright, alright, alright. To that I say: Just keep livin'. Thank you." ~Matthew McConaughey

Emily Alice Coy

Emily Coy will be a 2023 Washburn District High School graduate and is the daughter of Paul and Kate Coy.

During her high school career, Emily participated in varsity track her junior year and varsity soccer her senior year. Emily was a standout defenceman on the soccer field, exhibiting extreme will and determination.

Emily spent her senior year in the Culinary Arts Program at the Caribou Tech Center, where she was able to work all day with her favorite hobby of cooking.

Upon graduation, Emily plans to serve her country, following in her father's footsteps, and enlist in the United State Marine Corps.

Derek Blue Cruz

Derek Cruz will be a 2023 graduate of Washburn District High School.

During his high school career, Derek has kept very busy through extra-curricular activities at school and in the community. He has been an active member of Washburn's Boy Scout Troop 177, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout and a member of Washburn's Volunteer Fire Department. Along with his community activities, Derek has been very involved in high school athletics. He is a four-year varsity letter recipient in soccer, basketball, and baseball. Derek was also a contributor to this year's yearbook.

Besides all of the extra-curricular activities, Derek pushes himself in the classroom. He has consistently been on the honor roll. He has taken advantage of the course offerings through the Caribou Tech Center during his junior and senior years and has done well in the EMT and Criminal Justice programs. During the fall of his senior year, Derek was inducted into the school's chapter of the National Honor Society which he views as his proudest accomplishment.

Derek's favorite memories in high school all revolve around playing sports. His hobbies include; scouting, sports, anything outdoors, driving, and hanging out with friends. Upon graduation, Derek plans to attend the University of Maine at Presque Isle for social work. He also plans to join a local police department. His long-term goals are to apply to the Maine State Police.

Looking back on his time at WDHS, the person that had the most impact on Derek was Ben Goodwin. Mr. Goodwin taught him how to work hard and never give up.

Derek leaves WDHS with this quote from Ice Cube, "Take a deep breath, it's just a bad day, not a bad life."

Heidi Pike Echeverria

Heidi Echeverria will be a 2023 graduate of Washburn District High School and is the daughter of Nina Pike, Trina Farley and Mitchell Knight.

During her high school career, Heidi has been involved in the National Honor Society, Yearbook, soccer, cross country, basketball, volleyball, track and field, softball, band/chorus, and has worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant for 2 years. She also volunteers for her town during fundraisers such as drive-through suppers, and at her local library.

Her favorite high school memory is being along for the ride as her graduating class bonded into a family and each grew as individuals as well. She is looking forward to seeing where life takes each one of her peers and wishes the best for all of her fellow classmates and friends.

Heidi is most proud of her academic achievements whilst participating in local volunteering, as well as working in healthcare and playing every sport available during her senior year. Her favorite hobbies are listening to music 24/7, reading, playing sports, being around her family, celebrating her favorite holidays- Passover and Hanukkah, and playing card games with her grandpa.

After graduation Heidi plans to study Health Sciences and Psychology at Northeastern University on their Boston campus. She later plans to graduate with a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy.

Looking back in her years at WDHS, the person that had the biggest impact on Heidi is her aunt, Leah Pike, because she has taught her that no matter how many curveballs life throws at you, you should always stay calm and true to yourself. She is the strongest and kindest person and is willing to do anything and everything in her power for the people she loves. She has always been there to help, to guide, and to love.

Heidi Echeverria leaves WDHS with this quote: “Being successful isn’t luck, it’s a choice.”

Braden Anthony Elliott

Braden Elliott will be a 2023 graduate of Washburn District High School and is the son of Hannah and James Elliott.

During his high school career, Braden has participated in FFA, soccer, cross country, baseball, volleyball, track & field, and volunteered at the Can-Am Sled Dog Race.

His favorite high school memory is when they used to go outside during the summer in Mr. Molton's class or throw erasers in the sink in the back of his room with Chris, Ben, and Derek.

Braden is most proud of hitting his goals in life and doing the things he needs, to further his life after high school. His favorite hobbies are hunting, fishing, working out, and just chilling.

After graduation Braden plans to go to the University of Maine Fort Kent for the four-year conservation law program to be a forest ranger.

Looking back on his years at WDHS, the people that had the most impact on Braden are Kaiden Rosi-Carney and Parker Sawyer because they allowed him to have people to bond with and talk about the things he loved doing outside of school and the career he wants to build. Having friends like this helped in more ways than one could ever know.

Braden leaves WDHS with this quote: “family, friends, kindness, and your enjoyment, remember what is important.”

Cody Wayne Ellis

Cody Ellis will be a 2023 graduate of Washburn District High School and the son of Chris Monroe and Kristopher Ellis.

Cody has participated in the publication of this year's yearbook and is known as a friend to those in need. He is most proud of being selected Student of the Month during his junior year.

Cody's favorite high school memory is when he, Kyle, and Ashley were outside during study hall and rolling down the hill. His favorite hobbies include watching YouTube and gaming. After graduation, Cody plans to find a job that involves making a lot of money.

When asked about the person that has the most impact on Cody during high school, he couldn't choose just one, there were many. "Mr. Worcester was the best Principal and I loved Mr. Poisson! Mr. Kaszas gave me so much special help and guidance. Mr. Molton is full of kindness and is such an easy person to start a conversation with."

Cody leaves WDHS with this quote: "If at first you don't succeed, try and try again."

Richard Bruce Gilbert

Richard "Trey" Gilbert will be a 2023 graduate of Washburn District High School and is the son of Richard and Tracie Gilbert.

During his high school career, Trey has participated in the art and life-skills programs. His favorite class and memories are in Mr. Hanson's class.

In his spare time, Trey enjoys watching tv and playing video games. Upon graduation, Trey plans to work with the career center to find a job that fits his interests.

Looking back on his years at WDHS, the person that made the biggest impact on Trey was Mrs. Desfosses. Trey said of Mrs. Desfosses, "She is my favorite teacher. She helped me to focus and enjoy school."

Chase Derek Hobbs

Chase Derek Hobbs will be a 2023 Washburn District High School graduate and is the son of Craig and Crystal Hobbs.

Chase has been a member of the Washburn National Honor Society since his sophomore year and served as President his senior year. Chase served as Class President his Freshman and Sophomore years and as Class treasurer his senior year. Although he has not played any sports during his high school career, Chase has still been active in the athletic department running the clock for the soccer and basketball games and helping with the live stream for the basketball and volleyball events. Chase maintained highest honor roll all four years of his high school career while working a part-time job every evening.

Chase attends the Caribou Tech Center taking the Commercial Driver's License program his junior year and the Heavy Equipment Program his senior year. Chase is most proud of receiving his Class A driver's license his junior year through the CDL program, and also, being selected as Caribou Tech Center’s student of the month in December of 2022.

His favorite hobbies are running equipment on the weekend and building with his father and uncle. He also enjoys riding his dirt bike whenever he isn't working.

Upon graduation, Chase plans to attend Northern Maine Community College, studying Auto Collision Repair.

Chase leaves WDHS with this quote: “Whatever your hands find to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or wisdom in the grave where you are going." ~Ecclesiastes 9:10

Delancy Blythe Koch

Delancy Koch will be a 2023 Washburn District High School graduate and is the daughter of David and Angel Koch.

During her high school career, Delancy participated in yearbook activities and was class secretary, student council member, young writers club, and All-Aroostook Chorus. In her senior year, she was selected to the All-State Chorus. Delancy also worked in the Busy Beaver (snack shack) during soccer and basketball games.

Her favorite high school memory is pretty much any class, junior of History. In Delancy's words, "That class was so much fun! I especially remember the times' Parker Corey and Aaron Skinner would get into debates, that if the teacher left them alone, would have gone the entire period! Those were always interesting and fun to listen to. The class that year was just fun in general. It was a good group of students."

Delancy is most proud of being selected to participate in the All-State Chorus Festival. There is a lot of dedication and preparation that goes into auditioning and having been chosen is a great honor.

Delancy's favorite hobbies are writing, art, and animation. She feels like she has gotten better at art in the sense that she is happy with what comes out. As for the writing and animation, while it's slow going, she is slowly improving and making her way through.

After graduation, Delancy plans to attend the University of Maine at Presque Isle to pursue a degree in Elementary Education and possibly work on some art and animation on the side.

Looking back on her years at WDHS, the person that had the most impact on Delancy are the people of the school because for better or worse, they've helped her grow as a person and see what she wants to do when the future comes. Delancy leaves WDHS with this quote from Doc. Brown from Back to the Future: "Your future hasn't been written yet. No one's has. Your future is whatever you make it, so make it a good one"

Tal Eli Michael McCoy

Tal McCoy will be a 2023 graduate of Washburn District High School and is the son of Chris and Kendra McCoy.

During his high school career, Tal has participated in the woodshop program with Mr. Hanson, as well as the Criminal Justice and Welding Programs through Caribou Tech. Center.

Tal's favorite high school memory is getting together on the baseball field for Senior Sunrise at the beginning of the school year. He is most proud of being a part of building the garage extension project at the high school. Upon graduation, Tal plans to attend Northern Maine Community College for the Commercial Driver's License program.

Looking back on his years at WDHS, the person that has had the biggest impact on Tal is Mr. Hanson. Mr. Hanson helped build experience through hands-on projects and taught us things we can use in everyday life.

Tal leaves WDHS with these words from John Grisham: "If you're gonna be stupid, you gotta be tough."

Ashton Raymond

Ashton Raymond will be a 2023 graduate of Washburn District High School and is the son of Matt and Tammy Gagnon.

Ashton is a happy-go-lucky guy with a smile on his face. He stops by Mrs. Hobbs' office window every morning with a smile and nod to say "good morning." He enjoys walking down to Country Farms Market to stock shelves and see his buddy Troy.

Ashton's favorite high school memory is of his 16th birthday. Due to covid, he couldn't have a party, but many students from the school and community members did a drive-by parade to wish him a "Happy Birthday." Ashton's favorite hobby is gaming.

Looking back on his years at WDHS, the person who played an important role in Ashton's education was Mrs. Desfosses. She made learning fun and had lots of patience.

Ashton leaves WDHS with this quote: "Keep smiling!"

Kaiden Aaron Rosi-Carney

Kaiden Rosi-Carney will be a 2023 Washburn District High School graduate and is the son of Alisa Rosi-Carney and Justin Carney.

During his high school career, Kaiden has been a member of the FFA through the Presque Isle Tech Center and was a part of the athletic department here at WDHS. Kaiden is a member of the Varsity Club and has participated in track & field, cross country, and soccer. Kaiden is an outstanding athlete with speed and skill. He earned the ability to race in the State Cross Country meet this year and was named an All-Aroostook and All-State soccer player.

His favorite high school memory is when the soccer team played on the turf field for a game during his junior year. Kaiden's favorite hobbies include hunting, fishing, trapping, camping, and metal detecting.

After graduation, Kaiden plans to become a forester. As he looks back on his years at WDHS, the person that had the most impact on Kaiden was Mr. P because he was always there if he needed to talk. Mr. P taught Kaiden through his Health and PE classes and through the three sports he coached Kaiden in.

Kaiden leaves WDHS with this quote: "Someday is a disease that will take your dreams to the grave with you." ~Timothy Ferriss

Parker Ray Sawyer

Parker Sawyer will be a 2023 graduate of Washburn District High School and is the son of Jeremiah Sawyer and Amy Sawyer and a bonus son of Tim Stitham.

During his high school career, Parker has been involved in both Washburn and Presque Isle Tech Center’s FFA programs. He is an active member of the Washburn Trail Runners Snowmobile Club and has participated in the Presque Isle Tech Center’s Off-Site Work Program. Parker has volunteered time at the Washburn Trail Runners Snowmobile Club and MSAD #1’s Information Technology Department. Parker currently works at United Ag & Turf.

Parker is most proud of being named the Industrial & Farm Mechanics Student of the Quarter and being selected to participate in the Off-Site Work Program at Presque Isle Tech Center. His favorite high school memories are those times spent having fun with friends.

Parker's favorite hobbies are anything outdoors, including sledding, dirt biking, hiking, fishing, and hunting.

After graduation, Parker plans to complete the Diesel Hydraulics and Welding programs at Northern Maine Community College.

Looking back on his years at WDHS, the person that had the biggest impact on Parker was Mr. Espling (PITC) because he taught Parker lifelong ‘real life’ skills and allowed Parker opportunities that gave him a head start on college and employment. Parker leaves WDHS with this quote: “Life is short, grip it and rip it.”

Jacob Norman Snyder

Jacob Snyder will be a 2023 graduate of Washburn District High School and is the son of Greg Snyder and the late Stina Snyder.

During his high school career, Jacob has participated in the woodworking program at WDHS working on and completing the garage addition project along with the new building project this year. Jacob has taken advantage of the program offerings at Caribou Tech. Center completing the Heavy Equipment program his junior year and this year the Commercial Driver's License Program. Jacob also works for the McCrums at Revelation Ranch.

Jacob's favorite hobbies are being outside and running heavy equipment.

McKenzey Mary Tarbox

McKenzey Tarbox will be a 2023 graduate of Washburn District High School and is the daughter of Danielle and Chad Gagnon.

McKenzey is an avid artist. She enjoys expressing herself through drawing, painting, writing and music. During her high school career, McKenzey was a part of the writing club as well as chorus and rock band.

Her favorite high school memory is during her junior year, when the rock band had their debut concert in front of the school. McKenzey was the lead singer of the group. She is most proud of the progress she has made through her music and art. Her favorite hobby is making crafts.

Looking back on her years at WDHS, the person that has had the biggest impact on McKenzey is her brother, Brett. Without him, her whole year would be boring!

McKenzey leaves WDHS with a quote from Marilyn Monroe. "This life is what you make it. No matter what, you're going to mess up sometimes, it's a universal truth. But the good part is you get to decide how you're going to mess it up."

Christopher Sean Tardie

Christopher Tardie will be a 2023 graduate of Washburn District High School and is the son of Paul and Yvonne Tardie.

During his high school career, Chris has participated in soccer, track & field, baseball, volleyball, XC, yearbook, library aide, varsity club, NHS, FFA, and Boy Scouts of America. He has received many athletic accolades including being named an Aroostook League Senior Scholar-Athlete. Chris has also achieved many academic honors including highest honors honor roll throughout his high school career. He has done all of this while working a part-time job at Wal-Mart.

His favorite high school memory is participating in the State Track and Field meet in his junior year. Chris is most proud of achieving the rank of Eagle Scout through Boy Scout Troop 177.

His favorite hobbies are playing soccer and car soccer (Rocket League).

After graduation, Chris plans to attend Colby College to study Pre-Med Biology and become a doctor.

Looking back on his years at WDHS, the person that had the most impact on Chris is Yes Theory / Seek Discomfort because of the way they helped him to see the world. Chris leaves WDHS with this quote: “Orange, goose, car.” ~Ben Goodwin

Lucy Gates Paulson Tate

Lucy Tate will be a 2023 graduate of Washburn District High School and is the daughter of Joshua and Sarah Tate.

During her high school career, Lucy participated in multiple sports including softball, soccer, basketball, cross country, and volleyball. She is also a member of the Varsity Club, and student government, and has worked as an editor on this year's yearbook. Along with this impressive list of extracurricular activities, Lucy is also a member of the school’s National Honor Society, serving in the office of Co-Public Relations. She was also selected this spring as a Senior Scholar Athlete for her work and dedication in the classroom as well as across the athletic programs offered here at school.

A favorite high school memory is managing cross country, specifically, traveling to Portland for the State meet and shopping at the mall! Of the many academic awards Lucy has obtained, she is most proud of receiving the MPA Principal's Award which honors her citizenship, extracurricular activities, and her academic achievements. Her favorite hobbies are reading, playing sports, and hanging out with her friends.

After graduation, Lucy plans to attend school majoring in architecture. Looking back at her years at WDHS, the person that has had the biggest impact on Lucy is Kolbie Churchill. "No matter what problem I had, Kolbie would do her best to help and was always there to talk to."

Lucy leaves WDHS with this quote: “We celebrate success, but I think we should also just celebrate giving it a go.” - Phil Keoghan

Chandler Jared Tozier

Chandler Tozier will be a 2023 graduate of Washburn District High School and is the son of Terri and Brian Tozier.

During his high school career, Chandler lent his artistic talents and abilities to the publication of this year's yearbook. Besides being a full-time high school student, Chandler has a part-time job at Wal-Mart that keeps him busy.

Chandler is most proud of achieving highest honors. His favorite hobbies are gaming and art. Upon graduation, Chandler plans to attend NMCC for business.

Chandler leaves WDHS with this quote from Derek Jeter, " Your image isn't your character. Character is what you are as a person."

Mitchell Ward Turner

Mitchell Turner will be a 2023 graduate from Washburn District High School and is the son of Ward and Christine Turner.

During Mitchell's high school career, he has participated in extracurricular activities such as Woodworking and Varsity Clubs. He was a member of the varsity basketball team for four years. Mitchell also lent a hand on this year's yearbook. Mitchell loves farming, which leads him to the Future Farmers of America. He has also had the privilege to complete the two-year agriculture program at the Caribou Tech Center.

Mitchell's most proud of receiving the Coach's Award in basketball, but his favorite memory, looking back, is when students from the previous senior class took Mr. P's tires off his car and listed them for sale on Facebook.

Mitchell's favorite hobbies include snowmobiling, basketball, mowing grass, and farming. After graduation, Mitchell plans to attend NMCC for diesel hydraulics and continue to work on the family farm.

Mitchell leaves WDHS with this quote from Virat Kohli, "Self-belief and hard work will always earn you success."

Jasmine Marie West

Jasmine West will be a 2023 Washburn District High School graduate and is the daughter of Westley and Jane West.

During her high school career, Jasmine was an active participant in athletics. She was a four-year varsity soccer player and was named a captain her senior season. Jasmine also played varsity basketball, softball, track, and volleyball. She is a member of the Varsity Club and this year participated in the publication of this year's yearbook.

When asked about her favorite high school memory, Jasmine replied, "Playing aggressive games of soccer."

Jasmine is most proud of receiving a trophy for her ability to play soccer, softball, and basketball. Her favorite hobbies include sports, her gym workouts, and hanging out with Arianna and Emily. After graduation, Jasmine plans to serve her country and join the United States Marine Corps.

Looking back on her years at WDHS, the person that had the most impact on Jasmine is Mrs. Hobbs. Mrs. Hobbs always believed in and encouraged her athletic abilities. She has been a significant influence on her life.

Jasmine leaves WDHS with this quote: "Continue to Challenge."

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