May 7, 2026 - Pieper High School Valedictorian Emilio Montalvo is celebrating four years of hard work and dedication this graduation season. From reminiscing high school memories to the anticipation of new beginnings, read on to learn more about Emilio’s Path to Success.
Q) How did you find out you were Valedictorian?
A) I found out after being called into the front office by Principal Knight and the Assistant Principal. I felt a lot of relief but the job isn’t finished. I am still focused on finishing the school year strong and passing my AP exams.
Q) How did you celebrate this accomplishment?
A) I didn’t do anything crazy to celebrate. That weekend my mom made me a special dinner, she was so excited for me, and I continued business as usual with my studying.
Q) Describe the entirety of your high school experience in one word.
A) Hungry.
Q) What is your favorite high school memory?
A) The football games! My favorite game was Pieper against Alamo Heights in the Alamodome in 2023, it was our first deep playoff run and the energy was electric. I love sports.
Q) What is one thing you would change about your high school experience?
A) I don’t have many regrets, but if there was one thing I could change, I think last year I did not spend enough time with my friends. This year I have relaxed a little bit, because at the end of the day the memories you make with your friends will stand out among the rest.
Q) If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be?
A) Isaac Newton. Newton did so much for the world at such a young age, so I would want to sit down and talk to him about how he maintains focus and what drove him to his discoveries.
Q) What song would you use to describe your high school experience?
A) “GONE, GONE / THANK YOU” by Tyler, The Creator. The Igor album was based around a love interest that Tyler loses, but in my mind the love interest is school. I’ve spent all this time building connections with people at school and now it’s time to say goodbye and thank you for what we have had. My favorite line is, “I hate wasted potential.”
Q) Which university will you be attending, and why?
A) I will be attending Texas A&M University. I received many scholarship opportunities as well as admission into the Honors College for Engineering. I am interested in both the electrical and petroleum engineering field.
Q) What are your plans after graduation?
A) A lot of working and studying. I will be working to save up money and will also be taking a trip with my friends to Chicago, Illinois.
Q) What's a piece of advice you'd give your younger self?
A) Don’t doubt the process and enjoy the grind more than the reward.
Thank you Emilio Montalvo for Growing Greatness on your Path to Success!
Photo Descriptions
- Pieper High School Valedictorian Emilio Montalvo graduation photo.
- Pieper High School Valedictorian Emilio Montalvo senior photo.