Freshmen rarely get the spotlight, but this year, they are proving they belong in it. DeMington Dunam, member of the Class of 2029, steps up with energy, determination, and teamwork, proving that the newer students can compete with confidence against upperclassmen.

Classmates say Dunam has quickly become one of the most recognizable freshmen voices in school activities and pep rallies.

“DeMington has always been a good representation of the freshmen class. He represents well during pep rallies and always goes out of his way to represent us,” said Drew Schafer, ‘29.

Students say his personality makes it easy for people across the school to connect with him.

“I think DeMington is the most determined out of all of us to make all freshmen feel welcome. I don’t know a single person who isn’t his friend or doesn’t know him,” Emma Hall, ‘27, answered.

His confidence has also helped the freshmen class stand their ground during competitive school spirit events.

“The only reason we have won anything in pep rallies is that he’s not afraid to face people who are older than him,” Schafer added.

Dunam’s leadership extends beyond pep rallies and competitions.

For Dunam, staying involved is about helping students enjoy their high school experience while they can.

“I always try to be active in school activities, not only do I have fun, but I also enjoy my classmates enjoying a period in their life that can be super stressful,” said Dunam.

He also believes freshmen often face unfair stereotypes simply because they are new.

“I’m proud of my class, even though the freshmen are picked on a lot; I don’t think they deserve it. We haven’t been here as long, but that’s why I think it’s so important to reach out and change stereotypes,” Dunam said.

Dunam says many freshmen feel hesitant to speak up because they believe their opinions do not carry as much weight.

“Many people in my grade feel like they can’t speak up and like their opinion doesn’t matter because they just got here, but they make up quite a large portion of our school and have the power to reach out more than they think,” Dunam said.

Still, the competition between classes remains mostly friendly and part of what makes school events exciting.

“The competition at MV is always friendly. But we all know who the best class is. The Class of ‘29-duh,” Dunam said.