Better Together is a feature that showcases students  and staff members who make each better through leadership practices.

Jayda Patterson & Angela Stokes

DECEMBER BETTER TOGETHER 

10th graders, Jayda Patterson and Angela Stokes are an inseparable duo. Let's hear their story...

We first met in 9th grade, when we were both new to WYWLA. We became close because we had the same schedule, and our math class was just the two of us. Angela is a very supportive person; she encourages and supports me as I try to accomplish my goals. We help each other by pushing one another to stay focused on our goals, offering honest advice, encouraging each other to try new things, and looking out for each other. We do many things together and share a lot of similar interests. We love spending time together, whether it's shopping, going to the mall, or volunteering; we love doing adventurous things together! We both bring positive energy, love hanging out with our friends, and know how to come together to make brilliant ideas.  

-Jayda Patterson, 10th grade 

Jayda and I met the first week of school. We were the only people in Mrs. Benson’s math class, which brought us closer together. Jayda keeps me in check and reminds me of who I am. She's encouraging, smart, optimistic, and a good person to be around. We empower one another by sticking together and giving back to the community through volunteer work. We even ran for leadership roles together in clubs, such as MedPioneers. We spend a lot of time together. We have sleepovers, attend football games and festivals, volunteer, and go to church together. Jayda is my twin flame! 

-Angela Stokes, 10th grade 

Ana Salihu & Vera Salihu 

DECEMBER BETTER TOGETHER 

Two 6th graders start their journey with each other as they begin the WYWLA middle school experience, here is their story...  

I have known Vera ever since I was born because we are cousins, which is very nice! Vera is a very sarcastic person and she always makes me laugh, even if it is just exchanging looks with her. We help each other a lot, especially with things like homework or problems with friends. We also push each other to our be our best and encourage whenever they need it. Even just talking to each other is enjoyable, she gives very good advice and I always trust her. We hang out at least once a week because our parents like seeing each other, but if we can't, we talk over the phone. We both can't take things seriously and we laugh over almost everything. We are both pretty responsible and caring.

-Ana Salihu, 6th grade 

I've known Ana ever since I was a little baby. Ana is a very understanding person and always cares about the smallest things in life. We help each other when we are down or when we just need help on some assignments. I don't see Ana as just my cousin, but also as my sister and my best companion. We see each other often, and we just chat and hang out. We both love animals, love gold, and look for the best in one another.

-Vera Salihu, 6th grade