Student: Raymond Whaley
Year In School: Senior
Plans After High School: Raymond has aspirations of attending UC Berkeley, UCLA, or Stanford to obtain his Bachelor’s degree in either Pharmaceutical Sciences or Biology. Afterwards, he envisions completing a doctorate program and earning a PharmD.
Toad PRIDE Focus: Personal Responsibility, Determination, and Empathy
What Raymond Does to Show Toad PRIDE: At its very core, the concept of “community” is a vital necessity for all human beings. Community fulfills humanities’ basic need for connection, provides essential emotional and physical support, and improves overall health. For Coalinga High School Senior Raymond Whaley, it has been community that has made his four years as a Horned Toad special. “I believe that the aspect of community here on campus and in our town is truly what makes Coalinga High School a special place,” comments Raymond graciously, “No matter where you go, whether that be walking to class everyday, supporting your local businesses, or driving downtown, it seems like there are always the colors Orange, Black, and White no matter the direction you turn!” Throughout the course of his high journey, Raymond has immersed himself into the CHS community through his participation in tennis and as Senior Class Vice President.
Senior Raymond Whaley (Back Row, Third from Right), has found community in the Coalinga High School Boys and Girls Tennis Program where he is #1 for Boys and Team Manager for the Girls.
As a two time captain and four year varsity player for the Horned Toads Tennis program, Raymond has established himself as a key part of the success that they have had over the past few years. Through his hard work and DETERMINATION on the court, Raymond spent a majority of the past few seasons as #1 on the Horned Toads latter, helping the team win multiple Western Sierra League Championships, while individually earning 1st Team All Western Sierra League honors as a sophomore and junior as well capturing the Western Sierra League Doubles Championship last year. The success Raymond has accumulated comes from his Fall off season commitment and support of the Lady Horned Toads Tennis program where he has served as team manager and statistician. The Coalinga High School Boys and Girls Tennis programs are centered on community, support, and encouragement, giving off a family type of energy and vibe.
As four year varsity player and two time captain for the Horned Toads, Raymond Whaley has earned numerous accolades for his play on the court.
In addition to his long lasting commitment to tennis at Coalinga High School, Raymond has found a sense of community with his involvement in student leadership and ASB. Inspired by previous CHS Activities Director, Mrs. Granados, Raymond was ignited with a passion for student body and leadership roles while creating safe, inclusive spaces for all students to enjoy their high school experience as evident in his role as Senior Class Vice President. “My vision for Coalinga High School is to have it be a safe place for all students to be accepted and to feel welcome,” states Raymond. In order to create a safe environment for students, Raymond has found genuine joy in creating fun and exciting posters to encourage students to participate in activities and attend events. Raymond’s ultimate goal is that with increased participation at events, more meaningful memories would be created for students, especially for Seniors. “I would love to have all of the Seniors this year to experience memories that will last a lifetime! Since this is the last year that all of us will be together, I want everyone to have the time of their lives with everything that we have planned for the future!” For the success, DETERMINATION, and commitment he has shown to the Horned Toads Tennis program and for the EMPATHY he has in creating safe, inclusive, and memorable experiences for all students at CHS, Raymond Whaley has Toad PRIDE.
As Senior Class Vice President, Raymond Whaley enjoys creating promotional posters for students to attend events with the hope of creating memories that last a lifetime.
What Toad PRIDE Means to Raymond: “What Toad PRIDE means to me is being a genuine person, taking responsibility for your community, being a leader, and doing your part at making the school a better place.”
What Teachers and Staff Think of Raymond:
“Ray Whaley is amazing. He is a joy to coach and is the heart and soul of CHS tennis. Ray is insightful and analytical, and he gives great advice to his teammates. His positive attitude uplifts those around him. Ray is also a true tennis fan. He follows the sport so closely that I go to him to get updates on the latest news.” Josh Walker, Head Coach Girls and Boys Tennis, Coalinga High School
“It has been a pleasure to get to know Raymond Whaley so far this school year. Raymond is a great student and is always full of positive energy ! He is always on task and on top of things as well as being such a respectful student ! Personal responsibility and Determination are two words that I can relate to Raymond when thinking about PRIDE! He has been a joy to have in ASB and I know if you have RAY in your classroom, good things will happen ! Congrats Raymond!” Luis Castro, Activities Director, Coalinga High School
“Raymond Whaley is an outstanding student and a genuinely good person. I had the pleasure of teaching Raymond in my dual enrollment U.S. History class last year, where he consistently earned some of the highest grades in the class and always took pride in his work. He is well-liked and respected by his peers and brings a positive attitude to our school community. Raymond also has tremendous school spirit, regularly participating in dress-up days and proudly showing his Horned Toad pride. He is a hardworking, respectful young man who represents Coalinga High School extremely well.” Miguel Rizo, Social Studies Teacher, Coalinga High School
“Raymond Whaley is an exceptional student. There is never a time where I pass Raymond in the hall and he isn't smiling. I think all teachers who have had the privilege of having him in class would say that he exemplifies TOAD Pride without expecting any recognition for it. He is our TA in the counseling office 3rd period and I look forward to being greeted by his positive attitude and big smile everyday. Congratulations Raymond, I am so proud of you!” Gabrielle Saldana, 10th & 12th Grade Counselor (M-Z), Coalinga High School
“Ray is such a wonderful young man. He takes pride in all of his work and also takes joy in showing school spirit. He values people as individuals and makes class fun.” Jennifer Lucero, Biology Teacher, Coalinga High School