Maya Jensen: Grit, Grace and Goals

Maya Jensen, Elkton High School Class of 2025, steps into her future with purpose, passion, and a heart full of ambition.

Maya Jensen is the scholar whom all parents look up to and all students want to emulate. She graduated from Elkton High School in May 2025 and is beginning her learning journey at South Dakota State University this fall, where she will pursue her degree in education. Maya is being featured as our first student, as her accomplishments are remarkable for a small-town South Dakota girl. She attended the National FCCLA Leadership Conference not once, not twice, but three years in a row. She says these experiences helped her expand her skills in leadership, communication, community service, and problem-solving—and she credits them for shaping her into the person she is today.

Representing Elkton on the national stage, Maya expanded her skills in leadership, service, and communication at the FCCLA National Leadership Conference—three years strong!

In addition to these learning experiences, Maya credits her family’s unwavering support for encouraging her to pursue her goals in FCCLA and to earn induction into the local chapter of the National Honor Society in the fall of 2024. She also draws strength from her faith. Maya shared that knowing God has a plan for her and a purpose for her life has helped her face challenges with courage and resilience. When asked if there was a quote or scripture that keeps her grounded, she pointed to Deuteronomy 31:6:

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

Reflecting on her high school experience, Maya shared that time management—especially procrastination—was something she had to actively work on. As she heads into college, she is learning to protect her time more intentionally, say no when needed, and turn in assignments early to avoid the stress that comes with last-minute work.

Whether at home or across the globe, Maya shines as a role model through her compassion and service—pictured here sharing joy during her mission trip to El Salvador.

Maya wants students who may be struggling to know that it’s always okay to ask for help. She encourages them to find a teacher they feel safe with and ask for support in whatever way they need. She also reminds fellow students that rest is not a luxury—it's essential. “Humans are not made to constantly work and stress,” she shared. “Take time for breaks and rest.”

As Maya continues to grow into the next chapter of her academic journey, she carries with her a deep awareness that younger students are always watching. “I want to be someone others can look up to—not just for what I’ve done, but for who I am,” she explained. She hopes to leave behind not just a list of accomplishments but a legacy of compassion, leadership, and purpose.

Maya’s journey is a beautiful reminder that greatness isn’t about perfection—it’s about purpose, perseverance, and using your voice to lift others. And she’s just the beginning.

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Maya’s story is just one example of the strength, character, and potential our students hold. Do you know a student who’s making an impact—whether through academics, service, leadership, or perseverance?

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Let’s keep celebrating the students who inspire us all. 🌟