Scholastic Superstars: Lucero Zavala Perez, Shenandoah Valley
Lucero Zavala Perez, Shenandoah Valley
What accomplishments are you most proud of and why?
I am most proud of how far I have become in school and my activities. Coming here in third grade and not knowing English was an obstacle I had to go through. Since I was young, I learned the language fast and got out from ESL which is a class that helps students who struggle with English. Learning English was a big accomplishment that helped me in my education.
Coming out of my comfort zone to play in sports or being in clubs have been a big accomplishment since I always been a quiet kid. This accomplishment made me meet new people and have friendships that have lasted throughout all of my high school years.
What were your most rewarding school or community activities?
The most rewarding school activities are being in the National Honor Society and Aevidum.
The National Honor Society was rewarding for me because it showed my achievements academically.
Being in Aevidum has been rewarding because of my involvement to support mental health awareness and to create a more positive environment for students. We made a volleyball tournament to bring students together and have fun.
What do you do in your spare time?
My favorite things to do when I have free time are running, reading, watching shows/movies, and doing crafts. Whenever I do not have work or have the chance to run, I will take it. Running is one of my favorite things to do because I love the feeling of listening to music and being outside.
I love reading and ing my imagery and also my creativity. My favorite books are "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" by Stephen Chbosky and "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt.
What are your plans after high school graduation?
My plans are to attend Penn State Schuylkill and major in Biology or Public Health. I chose this major because I want to pursue a career in the dental field. I plan to get my bachelor's and get hours in shadowing dentists or different occupations in the dental field, then hopefully make it to dental school.
What do you see yourself doing and where do you see yourself living in 15 years?
I hope in 15 years I am successful in my dental career. I hope I own my practice or co-own a practice. I just hope in the future I have a stable job that keeps me financially stable to start a family. I want to stay in the area and help my parents out with getting a house. I would like to stay in an area where I can grow professionally and personally, and also help the community that helped me along my career.
Whom do you most admire and why?
My parents - they are hardworking people that always found a way to go through obstacles in life. They sacrificed a lot for me and my brother to get a good education and a bright future. Since I was little, they have never missed work even when sick. They have taught me to be strong and independent in building a life in a country where there are more opportunities.
In a sentence, what is your philosophy of life?
Keep your head high, but your heart humble and kind.
Finish this sentence: The most interesting thing about me is …
… my favorite ice cream flavor is mint chocolate chip ice cream. People find it disgusting, but it is something different, and different is not always bad.
A LITTLE ABOUT LUCERO
Hometown: Shenandoah
Parents: Moises Zavala and Maria Perez
Some Honors Include: National Honor Society (President), National Arts Honor Society and Recognition Award for being ranked in the top 3 of graduating class
School Activities: Aevidum, Student Council, Ski Club and Art Club
Athletics: Soccer, Track and Cross Country
Community Activities: Volunteer at Little League Concession Stand and Lector at Divine Mercy Parish
Her Nominator Said: Lucero is very hard working and driven … I have watched this once shy, young lady blossom into an outgoing well-rounded individual. She has always wanted to pursue a career in the dental field and has dreams of providing a better life for her and her family. I am confident that she will be very successful.
Twenty-five students were chosen by judges from the community to represent the most accomplished of Schuylkill County's graduating classes as part of the Republican Herald's annual Scholastic Superstars.
Copyright 2026 Tribune Content Agency. All Rights Reserved.
This story was originally published May 24, 2026 at 6:53 PM.