R. L. Turner High School’s LaKendra Francis is the winner of the 2019 Pride Keeper Award.The award was presented during the annual Senior Walk in the Turner auditorium. The award is the highest character award given to a graduating senior at RLT. LaKendra, who is visually impaired, states, “I don’t let it define who I am. I use it to grow and to build myself up as a strength.”
A year of growth
RLT principal Brooke Hall spoke about LaKendra stating, “her story is one of courage, determination, and bravery.” During her junior year, LaKendra went to the Texas School for the Visually Impaired in Austin. She credits the experience with helping her come out of her shell. Since returning to Turner, she has participated in student council, cheerleading, track, and a musical. After graduation, LaKendra will pursue a degree in Rehabilitation Mobility. LaKendra says that when she leaves Turner she’d like to be remembered as, “sweet, very honorable, and kind.”