Katie Gutierrez, a junior at Momence High School, has big dreams and an undeniable drive to make them a reality. Whether she’s excelling in algebra, taking the field as a forward on the soccer team, or flying high as a cheerleader, Katie is carving her own path while honoring the values her family has instilled in her.

Raised in a hardworking family, Katie’s determination comes as no surprise. Her parents’ stories of perseverance serve as a constant inspiration. Her mother, who emigrated from Mexico at 18, worked tirelessly to provide for her family while adjusting to life in the U.S. “She started with nothing and built everything we have today,” Katie says. “She’s my biggest role model.”

Her father’s journey is equally compelling. After leaving high school in his sophomore year, he joined the military, found his footing as a carpenter, and eventually helped establish a family business in Chicago. “My dad showed me that it’s never too late to turn your life around,” Katie reflects. “He’s a perfect example of hard work paying off.”

Katie’s own path is already filled with accomplishments. As a cheerleader, she’s a flyer—performing stunts that require precision, trust, and bravery. “It’s a lot of fun, and I love the social side of cheer,” she says. “The coaches and the other girls make it such a positive experience.”

On the soccer field, Katie takes pride in her role as a forward. Though her team faced challenges last season, she scored a memorable goal in their final game. “I wasn’t even aiming for the net,” she laughs. “It just went in. It was a great moment.”

Academically, Katie is thriving in Algebra II and maintains an impressive GPA of 3.7. While she’s unsure of her exact career path, she’s considering studying business, with an eye on real estate. “I don’t know exactly what I want to do yet,” she admits. “But college will give me the chance to explore my options.”

Family remains at the center of Katie’s life. She speaks lovingly of her older brother and his three children, whom she adores. “Being an aunt is the best,” she says. “They’re like little siblings to me, and I love spending time with them.”

Katie’s journey to Momence High School came with its own set of adjustments. After attending a small private school with just a handful of students per class, the transition to a larger public school in sixth grade was a significant change. “It was overwhelming at first, but joining sports helped me make friends right away,” she says.

Now firmly rooted in the Momence community, Katie appreciates the supportive environment. “The teachers really care, and the people here are amazing,” she says. “It’s all about finding your tribe, and I found mine.”

Looking ahead, Katie dreams of attending an out-of-state university in a warm, sunny location—preferably near the beach. “I want to explore the world and see what’s out there,” she says. “But I’ll always be grateful for the foundation Momence has given me.”

For Katie Gutierrez, the future is wide open. With her work ethic, strong family values, and a community cheering her on, she’s ready to take on whatever comes next.