Jered Gauge Byland was born on August 28, 2206, to parents James Byland III and Amanda Byland. He has two siblings, Jacob and Samantha. His favorite teacher is Mrs. Balzer because, “There’s never a dull moment in her class, and she always pushes me to be all I can be.” He would describe himself in three words as quiet, efficient, and funny. If Jered could travel anywhere in the world, he would visit the mountains and prairies of Montana to see “the beauty with my own eyes.” His favorite school memory is when he ran into Mrs. Braswell’s door while shooting Mr. Shrum’s freshman advisory introduction video. Jered doesn’t have a most embarrassing high school memory; he says, “I enjoyed all of high school, even if I looked like a complete idiot.”
As a child, Jared dreamed of becoming a rockstar or an astronaut. Currently, Jered is waiting to see the outcome of the election before enlisting in the Missouri National Guard. If he decides against that or once his six years are complete, he wants to continue his career as a welder. His advice to underclassmen is, “Don’t get uncomfortable; growth comes from being out of your comfort zone.” Jered feels ready to “rip the graduation band-aid off.” What he will miss most about high school are his friends and Mrs. Balzer. He believes Mrs. Balzer had the most influence on him, stating, “She always pushes me to do my best and was willing to fight the government because I couldn’t retake my ASVAB.” Jered considers his biggest accomplishment so far to be earning his CTC welding certificate.
Shoutouts: Ms. Page and Officer Jensen.