Senior Spotlight

Make way for Covenant’s Class of 2025
by Ashley Greene on May 16,  2025

They’ve grown up together—many of them from kindergarten nap mats to senior capstones. Covenant’s graduating class of 2025 includes Tayelor “Taye” Bottoms, Tye Leatherman, and Anaiah Smith, all of whom began their journey at Covenant in kindergarten. EllieGrace Saran joined the crew in first grade, Calvin Trousdale came aboard in fifth, and Sara Aultman entered in eighth. Lane Kisslinger rounds out this year’s graduating group.

Athletes, Achievers, and All-in Students

Tye Leatherman found his rhythm—and some big wins—on the basketball court. “This season was a blast,” he said. “We had a great coach, and the energy with the team was unmatched.”

Sara Aultman reflects on her volleyball season as her most memorable high school experience. “We were a young team this year,” she said. “The growth was huge, and I loved seeing the younger players rise to the occasion.” Her favorite memories? The bus rides– building community with her teammates there and back again.

Anaiah Smith celebrates a standout season in tennis, where not only she, but also the entire team took first place in district and state in girl’s singles.  “I’ll never forget how we rallied together,” she said. “It was about more than just wins—it was about unity.”

And then there’s Taye Bottoms, whose most impactful high school memory wasn’t athletic—it was entrepreneurial. Working over 33 hours a week while keeping up with academics, Taye’s been grinding early. “Balancing school and work taught me discipline. That experience is going to shape my career,” he said.

Senior Year: Some Stress, All Success

This class has something special. They’re supportive, close-knit, and relaxed—but don’t let the chill vibes fool you. They’re facing real decisions, big dreams, and looming deadlines.

Originally set on physical therapy, Tye Leatherman felt a shift. “The Lord changed my heart,” he said. After exploring schools like Spurgeon College and Boyce, he felt at ease. “I’m not worried,” he shared. “I’m trusting God. Whether I pursue intercultural studies or business, I know I’ll be where He wants me.”

And as for Rhetoric—the rigorous capstone of a Covenant education–there was definitely some pre-presentation jitters, but also a sense of pride. These students learned how to research deeply, present persuasively, and defend their arguments with confidence.

A Classical Christian Education—And Why It Matters

Every senior credits their growth to Covenant’s distinct approach: Classical, Christian, Caring, and Community.

“The teachers give you freedom—and responsibility,” said Aultman. “They’re always there, but they expect us to solve problems ourselves. That’s how we grow.”

“Our teachers push us to think, to talk, to reason,” added Leatherman. “They taught us to handle disagreement with logic, not anger.”

Calvin Trousdale appreciates learning how to engage in meaningful, respectful conversations—even when opinions differ. “That’s real preparation for the world,” he said.

Anaiah highlighted her increased confidence in public speaking and leadership. “I’m not afraid to use my voice now,” she said. And Sara agreed, crediting Rhetoric for transforming her into a capable, poised speaker.

EllieGrace weighed in: “Covenant’s community helped prepare me for any social setting. I know who I am and I know how to relate to others.”

Community + Purpose = Covenant

What do the seniors love most about Covenant?

“The small class size means you’re known,” said EllieGrace. “Teachers truly care about you.”

Sara chimed in: “Christianity isn’t just taught here—it’s lived. It’s in everything we do. That’s what shaped me most.”

Anaiah echoed the sentiment: “It speaks volumes that I’ll miss the people here. They’re not just classmates—they’re family.”

Classes That Stretch and Strengthen

“AP Stats and AP Chem are testing my limits—and making me stronger,” said Leatherman. “They’ve taught me to leverage resources and trust myself.”

One unanimous skill these seniors leave with? Time management. Between classes, sports, work, and college apps, they’ve had to master it. “We had to figure it out, fast,” said Aultman.

Faith That Fuels the Future

Bible classes sparked Calvin’s interest in apologetics. “To defend your faith, you have to understand it,” he said. “Covenant taught us the ‘why’ behind the ‘what’—not just in Bible, but in every subject.”

Tye added: “At Covenant, talking about faith is natural. From deep hallway conversations to big questions in class—it’s all part of the culture.”

Even Taye, with his full workload outside school, had the tools to talk about God. “I’ve had real, respectful conversations about faith with coworkers—people who’ve had tough experiences with religion. Covenant taught me how to share, not argue.”

The Road Ahead

EllieGrace is heading to Dallas Baptist University to major in nursing on a pre-med track—with potential for a pivot to law. Options wide open.

Anaiah’s choosing between schools but has locked in her major: computer engineering and computer science. Bold brainpower ahead.

Sara’s pumped to attend Mary Hardin-Baylor and join the volleyball team. She’s pursuing nursing, with an eye on anesthesiology at Cizik School of Nursing.

Taye is kicking off his business degree at Lone Star College, with plans to transfer to UH or Sam Houston. Real estate license? Check. Investment plans? In progress. He’s building his future, one calculated move at a time.

Calvin is enrolled in the Ascend Nursing Program at Blinn, eager to serve—and ready to follow wherever God leads next.  Lane is also taking classes at Blinn and he and Calvin will be roomates.  Covenant builds community and oftentimes these relationships extend far beyond the classroom.

And Tye? His heart is set on missions. For now, that calling has led him to Boyce, where he’ll major in business and plans to pursue a Master of Divinity.

Covenant’s Class of 2025: Grounded in Faith, Fueled by Purpose

This class is one part excited, one part uncertain—but fully confident in what’s next. They’re armed with the wisdom of a Classical Christian education, a strong sense of self, and a community that will always have their back.

They are ready.
They are equipped.
They are launching.

Make way for the Class of 2025!

If your family would like to be featured in a future Covenant Community Family Spotlight, feel free to reach out to Ashley Greene at agreene@CovenantKnights.org today.