T. Smith

SMILE MORE. WORRY LESS. “When I walk out of these doors I hope to be remembered by my smile and that I was always willing to help others.” For anyone who has been around Taya knows just how contagious her smile is. Taya always has a bright smile on her face and is usually followed by her signature laugh. Taya Ashlynn Smith was born October 14, 2004 to Jonas and Ashley Smith. Taya has three older siblings-Ashton, Damon, and Haley and two younger siblings-Creighton and Isabella. 

Throughout high school, Taya has been a well-known face in the Valley Heights community. Taya has been involved in a large variety of activities. She has competed in volleyball, basketball, and track for four years and has been a valuable athlete on each team she has been a part of. Taya has also participated in numerous clubs and other outside activities including; Art Club, journalism, All School Play, KAY’s, NHS, Student Council, and Drill Team. Taya encourages underclassmen to enjoy every moment because time goes by so fast. “Everyone says, but you never truly understand it until you are a senior. I wish I would have tried to understand the meaning when they told me to enjoy every moment,” said Smith. One of Taya’s favorite high school memories came from the bus ride to State Volleyball her freshman year. Taya said,“ Going to state in volleyball my freshman year really made me want to make it to State every year in either volleyball, basketball, or track. ” Taya also enjoyed going to State Track her sophomore year, “It was such a different atmosphere than anything I had been a part of and it was so fun. There were some nerves, but there were so many lifetime memories made.” 

Taya has impacted many people during her time at Valley Heights. She has been an outstanding role model for students of all ages. “Taya has such a bubbly personality and it's hard not to smile when you are around her,” said Mrs. Coon. “She holds herself to such a high standard that wherever she ends up after high school her work ethic will help her see success in whatever she does.” Mrs. Coon has gotten to know Taya very well through having her in journalism and seminars over the past few years. She encourages Taya to enjoy the best years of her life and not to worry about changing your mind, “When one door closes, another one opens.” Taya has such a kind soul and helping heart therefore, we are not surprised that Taya hopes to go on to pursue a degree in Kinesiology and eventually go on to Physician Assistant school. 

Although many people see Taya around the community and know her well through athletics, there are some things about her that most people don’t know. Taya is an active member of the St. Mark's Lutheran Church. Taya loves spending her Friday night with friends and whatever adventures that may bring, especially the ones that include going to El Ranchero. Taya’s favorite meal includes steak and potatoes, with gravy. If you ever find Taya in her car you can almost guarantee she will be listening to red dirt country, especially Revival by Zach Bryan. Taya’s bubbly personality and smile has made a lasting impact on the Valley Heights community. 

Article By: Maecyn Gunn