There are many amazing seniors doing great things here at Concord High School. One who stands out is Gavin Morell. His friends describe him as hardworking, trustworthy, funny, and caring, which is why we are honored to shine our spotlight on him this week.

Morell already knows what he wants to do after high school: his plan is to join the Air Force. Right now, Gavin is currently enrolled in Career Center and attending the Army JROTC program. He explains that “it’s pretty sick.” 

Joining a program at Career Center, like the JROTC program, could be beneficial to help figure out one’s pathway. Morell explains, “I joined the program to help me figure out what I want to do.” He explains that if you’re thinking about joining the program, “go for it! It’s honestly not anything crazy.” Something he is proud of is that he is a commander in JROTC this year.

The JROTC program has also created a lot of memories for him. His favorite high school memory is JROTC related. He shares:“We went to MIS, and we held up a sign that said, “rev check,” and the people who would go on the track and rev their cars.”

Between growing up and JROTC, Morell has had a ton of growth since freshman year. He says, “I used to be a shy little kid. I couldn’t talk to people at all freshman year. JROTC has helped me branch out and talk to more people.”

In school, his favorite class is A.P. Lit. Outside of school, he likes to play video games when he can, but he is usually working. In the future, Gavin wants to go skydiving and explains that that is something that is on his bucket list.

Classmate Savanna Payne has known Gavin since kindergarten. “Gavin is very quiet, but once you get to know him he’s very funny,” Payne shares. She continues with a memory she has with Gavin. “In middle school, there was one empty locker in between our lockers. So we decided that instead of using a trash can like normal students, we put all of our trash in the empty locker. We then assigned days for each of us to take out the trash.”

Morell’s best friend, Senior Owen Kidder shares how Gavin is as a friend. “He’s a good guy to be around, he’s trustworthy, and if you ask him to do something for you, maybe if you give him five bucks he’ll do it,” Kidder shares. “My favorite memory was when we met in 6th grade, we were comparing shoes, and we both had Under Armour high tops on.”

Science teacher Mrs. Fiero has had Morell for two classes throughout high school. She says, “he is very dedicated to his career in the military. He is a very good writer.”

English teacher, Ms. Kelly, had the privilege to have Morrell in class for two years and shares that, “ This young man is not only one of the hardest workers I’ve ever had in class, but he is also a student with true integrity.  Watching Gavin improve as a reader, writer, and thinker who is willing to set goals and achieve them really is an inspiration.”  Kelly continues, “I know that Gavin will go on to serve our country and make us all proud of his achievements.” 

The main influence on Gavin’s life is his mom. She has helped him become the successful person he is. “My mom has made me into the person I am today because she is always there for me and supports me,” he shares.

Morell would like to leave underclassmen with this piece of advice: “put in the effort, and you will get results.” 

We wish Gavin good luck as he continues the JROTC program, and continues a successful life!