Senior Carla Castillo Tlaczani works as a media assistant during first period. She plans on attending Durham Technical community college and will then transfer to a four year college. Photo by Saul Janiak Stein.
Carla Castillo Tlaczani will be the first generation graduate in her family.
“I love making my family and the people I care about proud and give them a reason to be proud and honestly nothing else can compare to this achievement,” she said.
Castillo Tlaczani is currently a media assistant during first period.
“I enjoy helping students with tech issues, shelving books and organizing them,” she said.
“I will miss her sweet presence in the library,” said media coordinator Jenna Wine. “She made it brighter and I felt confident that our library was in good hands due to her.”
“Graduating feels a little scary because I know my life is going to be completely different from what I’m used to,” she said. “But also I’m really excited to open a new chapter in my life and I know it’s not going to be the only one.”
Castillo Tlaczani plans to attend Durham Technical Community College, then transfer to a four year college.
“My plans for the future may seem simple but I feel like there’s more to it than that,” she said. “[I want] to get my bachelor’s degree for pediatric nurse. I love being with kids, it’s almost like having a mini person around.”
Castillo Tlaczani said her time at Riverside wasn’t perfect, but she’s enjoyed it overall.
“I have so many fond memories with friends, teachers, and even with random people,” she said.
“I hope to remember this and cherish it forever.” There are two teachers that made her high school
experience better.
“Throughout my high school career only two teachers stand out, Mr. Kemp and Coach Headen,”
she said.”They both made me feel confident and comfortable in what I do when I’m in doubt. Their
words and cheers make me feel motivated and help me become a better version of myself bit by
bit. I’m beyond grateful to be in their classes and have them as my teachers.”
Castillo Tlaczani is currently a TA for science teacher Daniel Kemp’s fourth period.
“I will miss how helpful and caring she was as my TA,” Kemp said. “She made a huge impact on how effective I am as a teacher and how much students in that class are engaged.”
Kemp is confident she will achieve whatever she wants after graduating.
“She is relentless in her pursuit of her life goals,” said Kemp. “Her passion is a joy to see.”
