Gary (Trae) DeWayne Cook was born on March 22, 2006, to parents Gary and Cassie Cook, and Melyne Christian. Trae’s siblings are Alicia, Kylie, Hailey, Madison, Kamryn, Jaiden, Jacob, and Catie. One of Trae's favorite teachers is Ms. Hinkle because she has been there for him through all four years of high school and even two years as an advisory teacher. One of Trae’s favorite staff quotes comes from Mrs. Hinkle, “Trae learns a little slower than everyone else, but that's okay.” Three words Trae would use to describe himself are athletic, funny, and creative. If Trae could travel anywhere in the world, he would love to go to Bora Bora to see the clear water and deep-sea fish.
One of Trae's fondest high school memories is winning the WIT, but he also recalls his most embarrassing moment, which was missing a dunk against Zalma. When Trae was a child, he wanted to be an archaeologist, but now he plans to attend Mineral Area College and study psychology. Trae is involved in Beta, FFA, FCA, and Pep Club, and plays basketball and track and field. Trae's advice to underclassmen is to “always put forward your best effort but still enjoy the moment.” He's excited to graduate but also nervous about what the future holds. Trae will miss his friends and sports teams the most, but his dad, who has been there for him since day one, has had the greatest influence on him. Overall, Trae's biggest accomplishment so far has been moving to a new school and improving in different ways.
Shoutouts: dad, Cassie, Ellias, Ms. Jessie, Ashton, Mrs. Hinkle