Navarro Independent School District

GERONIMO, TX – May 13, 2025 – Navarro ISD proudly announces Sofia Castillo as the Valedictorian of the graduating class of 2025. Sofia's remarkable academic journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment, resilience, and the power of dreams.

When asked about being named Valedictorian, Sofia shared how the honor is bigger than just a title, "Being named valedictorian is a moment of deep pride, not just for me, but for my entire family. As a first-generation Mexican American, this achievement is the realization of sacrifices made long before I was born by my parents who left everything behind in a small village in Mexico so their children could have a better life.” 

With an entire community behind her, Sofia credits her grandfather, Pablo Ordoñez of Lagunillas, San Luis Potosí, as one of the greatest influences and constant source of strength and motivation in her life to be resilient and dream beyond her limitations. “My heritage has taught me that true success is measured not by personal achievement, but how we serve and uplift those around us. This is not the final destination, it is only the beginning of a lifetime dedicated to learning, leading, and lifting others."

Sofia's immediate plans after graduation reflect her ambitious goals as she plans to attend either Johns Hopkins University or Rice University to pursue studies in Economics, Business, and Political Science on a pre-law track. From there, she intends to continue her education at Harvard Law School with the goal of becoming a patent attorney. Ultimately, she aspires to serve as a Congressman advocating for innovation and opportunity within the communities that have inspired her.

Attributing her achievements not as a reflection of her own abilities, but through a foundation of faith in Jesus, Sofia expressed her gratitude in which,  “Every success, every lesson, and every blessing has been guided by His grace and goodness working in me. Without Jesus, none of this would be possible, and I hope to use every opportunity I am given to serve others and honor Him.”

Navarro ISD celebrates Sofia Castillo's outstanding achievements and wishes her continued success as she pursues her academic and professional aspirations. She will address her fellow graduates, faculty, and families at the Navarro High School commencement ceremony on May 23, 2025, at Erwin-Lee Stadium.

Activities and Awards: 

Panther Band Senior Drum Major and 1st Chair Trumpet/Soloist

Navarro National Honor Society Chapter President

Navarro Interact Club President

Navarro Spanish Club President

Navarro UIL Academics-- State Qualifier Cross Examination Debate Team Captain and Co-Founder

Navarro UIL Academics-- Literary Criticism Member

Navarro Superintendent Student Advisory Committee Member

Navarro Yearbook Editor

Navarro Varsity Golf Player

Navarro Student Council Member

Navarro Jazz Band Member

Living Waters Church Kids Ministry Volunteer

Honors and Awards

● Class of 2025 Valedictorian

● Perfect Attendance Since Kindergarten (13 years)

● Texas Science and Engineering State Fair Finalist (Senior Division)

○ 1st Place Winner for Navarro High School Science Fair

○ 2nd Place Winner for Alamo Regional Science Fair

● University of Texas at Austin Impact Scholar

● Johns Hopkins Hodson Gilliam Success Scholar

● Notre Dame Balfour-Hesburgh Scholar

● Texas A&M University Regents Scholar

● Hagan Foundation Scholar

● 3rd Place and State Qualifier UIL Cross Examination Debate Team in District Meet

● 2nd Place Team UIL Literary Criticism in District Meet (2023)

● 2nd Place Team and Regional Qualifier UIL Literary Criticism in District Meet (2025)

● College Board National Hispanic Recognition

● College Board National First- Generation Recognition

● Superintendent Scholar of the Month

● 4A State Marching Band Championship Qualifier

● State Qualifier in Solo and Ensemble- Bugler’s Holiday (Trumpet Trio) (2023)

● State Qualifier in Solo and Ensemble- (Brass Quartet) (2024)

● State Qualifier in Solo and Ensemble- (Trumpet Trio) (2025)

● Marching Band Area Finalist (Soloist) (2023)

● 1st Place Fiesta Battle of the Flowers Marching Band Contest (2024)

● All Region Band Qualifier (Trumpet)

● Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) Representative (MVP Award)

● Minnie Stevens Piper Scholar