March 18, 2025

Samantha Parker’s childhood didn’t’ follow the path of most of her classmates. She was raised by her grandparents, who willingly stepped in when family circumstances required them to. Then, when they decided to move to Arizona when Parker was in eighth grade, another arrangement was made – Parker would remain in Hughson, living with close family friends Katie and Daniel Quinn.

“My grandparents have been friends with Katie’s parents for a long time,” Parker explained. “And Katie (a teacher at Hughson Elementary School) has always been kind of like a role model for me and I always looked up to her. When my grandparents decided to move earlier than planned, I didn’t want to leave, so Katie and Daniel decided to take me in.”

The arrangement has been a blessing for Parker, who was Hughson’s nominee this year in the countywide Every Student Succeeding award, which recognizes and honors teens who’ve overcome obstacles.

“I get goose bumps thinking about where Sam started and where she is now,” said Hughson High Principal Loren Lighthall. “She has matured and grown into a wonderful young lady.”

To say Parker is an active student is to put it mildly. She plays sports (flag football, basketball and softball), performs in drama (she was the queen in “Frozen” this winter) and is part of FFA. She’s also volunteered at events like the crab feed and the annual Hughson Fruit and Nut Festival.

“I do enjoy staying busy,” Parker admitted. “And it’s not too hard to manage it all because performances for my drama class are during the school day or on a Saturday while my games are after school.”

All the activities haven’t had any impact on Parker’s performance in the classroom – she’s receiving straight A’s this semester.

She said it meant a lot to her to be nominated for the Every Student Succeeding award.

“I definitely didn't expect it at all,” Parker said. “I enjoyed being recognized for my good grades as they were not very good in the past, so I feel like I've come a long way.”

After graduation this spring, she’s likely to continue living with the Quinns while she attends Modesto Junior College. An avowed animal lover --she has three dogs, two cats and one very fluffy bunny – she would like to pursue that passion in her career.

“I have always loved animals and it would be amazing to be able to see them and help them whenever I can,” she said.

Lighthall has no doubt Parker will succeed at whatever she puts her mind to.

“She has a positive attitude and has a smile for everyone she meets,” he said. “Congratulations and keep up the good work Sam!”