Senior Angel Spears-Johnson (from left, fourth in seated on the couch) is easily one of the most encouraging and positive students within the four walls of Ledyard High School. Angel has faced more challenges and adversity than many of us will experience in a lifetime, but despite this, she was able to turn everything negative thrown at her into a positive. She actively uses her experiences to lift up others and truly believes that everyone should have a voice regardless of race, gender, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.

Q: What do you want to do after high school?

A: “I want to go to college to be an elementary school teacher, specifically a third-grade teacher. I feel third grade is the perfect age to teach and it’s when they need the most attention.I want to be a teacher in general to help kids that went through similar things I have, like changing schools and having to find a new support system within that school.”

Q: How does Ledyard High School compare to the previous schools you’ve gone to? 

A: “Ledyard is way more diverse than my previous school and more inclusive. Being a mixed-race girl, this aspect of schooling is incredibly important to me.” 

Q: How has your background shaped who you are? 

A: “With the help and support of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe I was able to reach my full potential throughout both my health and education. Without the assistance of my family within the tribe, I wouldn’t be here today and for that, I am so grateful for each of them.”

Q: What do you do in your free time? 

A: “During my free time I enjoy promoting my annual February Fashion Show in honor of children born with congenital heart defects. I have my fashion show to prove anyone can be a model despite race, religion, sexuality, physical appearance, etc.”

Q: What inspired you to do this?

A: “I was born with a CHD and it showed me how little people with heart defects are represented. I had my first surgery when I was two weeks old and have had seven surgeries since then. Having CHD made it so I wasn’t able to be in class at all times and I wasn’t able to participate in activities like gym with my peers. I remember having to sit inside when my friends would be at recess, and the little memories like that inspired me to raise money for those with CHD.”

Q: What advice would you give someone in the same situation as you? 

A: “Keep Fighting!! You are incredible and can overcome anything. Take it one day at a time 💕”

Emily Goodrich, Staff Writer

Senior Emily Goodrich is a staff writer for the 2021-2022 Colonel Newsmagazine. She is the senior class Vice President and an NHS member. When she’s not harassing her mom to go to the beach or with friends, you could probably find her napping.