Celebrations of college acceptance may be commonplace at high school campuses. But one Garland ISD elementary recently held its first. Watson Technology Center for Math and Science third-grader Jordan Phipps received a special surprise from the University of North Texas (UNT) Sept. 29.
“This says welcome to the Mean Green. You will be the class of 2030,” said UNT’s executive director of Undergraduate Admissions Rebecca Lothringer. “You are the youngest student I have ever admitted. You just have to graduate from high school and come on.”
Phipps’ surprise continued with the presentation of a $10,000 scholarship. Hand-delivered by UNT cheerleaders in front of clapping classmates and family members, it no doubt left the future Eagle in a bit of shock.
Phipps’ newfound fame began with a video recorded to commemorate GISD’s College Day. In it, she adapts a classroom chant to show her dream of one day attending the same college as her mom.
“I am smart. I am a leader,” she says. “Failure is not an option for me. Success is only moments away. I have the attitude of a North Texas Eagle, and now it is time to start my day.”
Posted to social media, the video has since gone viral with approximately 90,000 views. And, Phipps is receiving publicity from local to national media, hailing her as an inspiration to other students.
Watch the special assembly for GISD’s college-bound third-grader captured by Fox 4 news.
Information and photo provided by Garland ISD.