April, 2026 Volume III, Issue 4Emilie Pridgenis PassionateAbout DancePage 72Also in this issue …Kaleb ClarkKaylee FisherSadie Elease FormyduvalCooper CartretteGrayson BellDrake HatcherR.J. Lacewell-CoardRylee GodwinGrace WilkinsA Publication of Fuller Royal Photography
2 Dear Readers,Welcome to the 18th issue of Students to Watch Magazine. Here, we presentportraits and stories of 10 students. Students to Watch has been a huge successfor our studio and it is something I enjoy creating every month.Parents are always looking for meaningful ways to build confidence andcelebrate who their children are becoming – not just what they accomplish.Being featured in Students to Watch gives students a platform to be seen,heard and valued. It’s more than a photo session; it’s a professionally writtenand photographed feature that highlights personality, passions, leadership,creativity, athletics, academics and character.In a world where so much attention is filtered through social media, thismagazine offers something lasting and tangible – a beautifully craftedspotlight that affirms a young person’s story and helps them recognize theirown potential.Students to Watch is open to any student – public, private, charter,homeschool – from any school system or county – because every student has astory worth telling. Parents who encourage their children to participate areinvesting in confidence, communication skills, and positive self-image duringsome of the most formative years of life.The experience itself becomes a milestone: being interviewed,professionally photographed and published in a respected regionalpublication. Years from now, families will look back on these features assnapshots of growth, dreams, and identity – reminders that their studentswere seen not just for what they did, but for who they were becoming.Everyone has a story whether it’s in the arts, academics, athletics orvocations. Let us tell yours.Fuller Royal Photographyis celebrating its 37th year ofportrait service to the community.
3This month’s issuefeatures WhitevilleHigh School seniorEmilie Pridgen. Aveteran dancer, sheplans to become anurse anesthetist. Seeher story on page 72.About theCoverINSIDEVolume III, Issue 4April, 2026Published Monthly byFuller RoyalPhotography910.770.1834622 S. Madison StreetWhiteville, N.C. 284728 Kaleb Clark18 Kaylee Fisher30 Sadie Elease Formyduval40 Cooper Cartrette50 Grayson Bell62 Drake Hatcher72 Emilie Pridgen84 R.J. Lacewell-Coard94 Rylee Godwin104 Grace Wilkins910.770.1834
This page: Dancers rehearsing for their Celebrate the Artsperformance at West Columbus High School include Riley Shepherd, aSouth Columbus dancer, Abigail Herring and Millie Bracey. Oppositepage: Phyllis-Grace Williamson and Molly Meares in the top photo,while Briley Bowen joins the ensemble in the lower photo. 4
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This page: Runners Jaceon Keel and Jonah Jacobs race to the finishline at a meet last month at West Columbus High School. Oppositepage: In the top photo, an East Bladen High School athlete puts hisstrength behind a shot put attempt. In the lower photo, an East Bladenathletes races against Jirah Ward and Tehya Moore. 6
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Never Backing Down:Kaleb Clark Finds Strengthin Sports and School NStory Continued on Page 13Story and PhotosBy FULLER ROYALakina Middle School, eighthgrader Kaleb Clark has built areputation as a student who staysengaged, competes with purpose andrefuses to back down from a challenge.Clark, 14, thrives in an environmentthat allows him to stay active andinvolved. He credits his school’s athleticsprograms for giving students theopportunity to represent their schoolwhile pursuing their interests. With that,he sees room for growth, noting thatadditional physical education time couldhelp students stay even more active.In the classroom, Clark’s strengthsare just as evident. English language artsstands out as his top subject, whilescience ranks as his favorite thanks to theenergy and creativity of his teachers. Hedescribes his academic experience aswell-rounded, saying he performs wellacross all subjects and does not considerany area a weakness.That consistency reflects theinfluence of several educators who haveshaped his journey. Among them areformer teacher Rod Gore, who taught himscience and math in fifth grade, andcurrent teachers DeAngelo Fipps andClay Reaves, who bring real-worldrelevance and engaging instruction intothe classroom. Clark also points toLandon Rising — his health and physicaleducation teacher and coach — as acentral figure in his development.Rising’s guidance extends beyond theclassroom, offering mentorship on thebasketball court and baseball field whileencouraging Clark to strive for his best.“I know that if I go to him, he willalways be there to talk or just listen,”Clark said.Clark’s involvement stretches wellbeyond academics. He is a member of thebasketball and baseball teams, thestudent advisory council, the yearbookstaff and Beta Club. Whether on the fieldor in a group project, he values teamworkand collaboration, calling sharedproblem-solving one of his favorite partsof school life.His achievements reflect thatcommitment. Clark has earned placementon the principal’s list, served as aseventh-grade marshal and received“most improved” honors in baseball. Hewas also recognized as a “MarvelousMustang” by Principal Shelly Cullipher.Outside of school, Clark’s interestsremain rooted in sports and family. Heenjoys attending baseball games,collecting sports cards and spending timeStrong mentorship and steady determinationshape a well-rounded eighth-grade standout 8
9Clark’s identityis deeplyrooted inteamwork –whether insports orcollaborativeclassroomsettings, heconsistentlyvalues sharedsuccess.
8 Clark’srespect formentorssuggests amaturitybeyond hisyears, withteachersand coachesplaying acentral rolein hisgrowth.
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12 His combination ofathletic ambition andentrepreneurialcuriosity points to astudent alreadythinking beyond thenext step.
13with friends and relatives. His passion forbaseball, in particular, continues to shapehis ambitions.“I hope to be able to play for a team or besomething in the sports industry,” he said.Looking ahead, Clark is also open toentrepreneurship, expressing interest in oneday starting his own business. That blend ofathletic drive and forward-thinking ambitionis grounded in a deeper sense of gratitude.“I am proud that God has given me theopportunity to play sports that I love,” hesaid.Those who know Clark might besurprised to learn he has a practical skilloutside the classroom and athletic fields —preparing cars for paint — a detail that hintsat both discipline and attention to detail.Through it all, Clark identifiesperseverance as his defining strength.“I never give up, even when things arehard,” he said.It’s a simple philosophy, but one thatcontinues to guide a student determined tomake the most of every opportunity.
14 East Columbus Junior-Senior High School softball playerSkylah Collins slides safely into second base as shewatches the ball slide past her.
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This Page: Kynley Scott, Journey Sutton, Adyson Spaulding, ArielPatrick and Kelli Maynor perform at the 2026 Celebrate the ArtsFestival at West Columbus High School last month. Opposite page:Top left, musician Aiden Jordan takes a break; top right, a highschool chorus member reacts to the lyrics; and, bottom photo,Courtney Powell works on a 3-D display box.16
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Story Continued on Page 2318 Energy and Excellence:Kaylee Fisher PursuesHer Big Goals EarlyStory and PhotosBy FULLER ROYALladenboro Middle School,seventh-grader Kaylee Fisheris known for her energy,determination and a deep appreciationfor the people around her.Fisher, 13, values the culture ofkindness at her school, where studentsmake a point to show appreciation forteachers and staff. She believes thatrespect and gratitude are essential, notonly among students but also towardthose who support them every day.“We should treat others how wewant to be treated,” Fisher said, notingthat school staff deserve to feel valuedby the student body.That mindset extends to her ownideas for improvement. Fisher wouldlike to see a weekly teacherappreciation program that recognizeseducators for their hard work — areflection of her awareness thatteaching is both demanding andimpactful.In the classroom, Fisher excels inmath, her strongest and favoritesubject. She credits her success to bothher dedication and the influence of herteacher, Jonathan Lewis, whoseengaging instruction has helped hergrow academically.“I know I’ll need math my wholelife, so it’s something I want to workat,” she said.While reading presents more of achallenge due to difficulty maintainingfocus, Fisher approaches it with thesame determination that defines heroverall work ethic.Her growth has been shaped by astrong support system of teachers andcoaches. Among them are NicoleKinlaw and Hayley Baxley, Beta Clubsponsors who have guided her throughservice and leadership opportunities,as well as Mike Dove, who has helpedher develop her soccer skills. She alsolooks up to Marlena Walters, herreading teacher and Beta sponsor,whose kindness and faith have made alasting impression.“I want to be a good Christian rolemodel like her,” Fisher said.Fisher’s involvement at school isFrom Beta Club to the ball field, Fishergives her all in everything she does B
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20 Fisher’s strong sense ofgratitude and respect forteachers highlights a maturityand awareness of her age.
21Her ability to balance highlevel involvement in sports,dance and academics points toexceptional time managementand discipline.
Fisher’scombination offaith, ambitionand relentlesseffort suggestsa student withboth strongcharacterand longtermvision.22
extensive. She participates in soccer, softball,basketball, volleyball and Beta Club,embracing every opportunity to stay activeand connected. Whether competing on thefield or collaborating with peers, she finds joyin teamwork and shared experiences.Outside of school, her schedule remainsjust as full. Fisher is a competitive dancer atAmy’s Academy of Dance Arts, where shestudies multiple styles, including tap, jazz, hiphop and lyrical. Tap remains her favorite, andshe has been dancing since the age of 2. Shealso plays travel softball and stays active inher church youth group.Herachievements reflect her commitment. Fisherhas earned Superintendent’s List honorsevery semester this year, received classroomawards for organization and participation, andcollected numerous MVP awards in softballtournaments. She has also competed on allstar teams in softball, basketball and soccer.Looking ahead, Fisher has ambitiousgoals. She hopes to attend the University ofNorth Carolina at Chapel Hill and pursue acareer as a neurosurgeon, driven by herinterest in the human body and a desire tohelp others heal. At the same time, she hopesto continue competing in sports and dancingfor as long as possible.Her passions extend into creative outletsas well, including crafting bracelets, drawingand running — interests that reveal a balancebetween athletic drive and artisticexpression.Above all, Fisher takes pride in herfaith, her academic success and themany accomplishments she hasearned through sports.“I try to give 100 percent ateverything that I do,” she said.That determination — paired with herenthusiasm and positive outlook — continuesto define a student who is already making animpact both in and out of the classroom.23
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25To view, download or order any issue ofStudents to Watch Magazine, visit www.fullerroyalphotography.com.
This Page: Helen Marie Holden, rehearses on the oboe atthe Celebrate the Arts workshops. Opposite page: Topleft, a high school trombonist eyes the conductor; topright, Emma Boren and Kevin Lopez perform; and bottomphoto, Daniel Rosales hits the right notes with his tuba.26
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This Page: Middle schoolers rehearse for Celebrate the Arts.Opposite page: Top left, Malisa Jeffords waits for instruction;top right, Sadie Formyduval pauses for a break; bottom left,Corbin Lovett sends his saxophone through its paces; andbottom right, Emma Jean Garrell hits the right notes.28
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30 Story Continued on Page 34NStory and PhotosBy FULLER ROYALakina Middle School, sixth-graderSadie Elease Formyduval islearning to balance faith, creativityand individuality as she begins her middleschool journey.Formyduval, 11, starts many of herThursdays at Fellowship of ChristianYouth (FCY), a time she values for settingthe tone of her day.“It makes the day start with learningabout Jesus, which helps remind you to bethankful throughout the day,” she said.Her faith plays a central role in her life,shaping both her outlook and herpriorities. She counts accepting Jesus asone of her proudest accomplishments andstrives to carry that perspective intoeverything she does — from schoolwork tofriendships.In the classroom, Formyduval enjoys amix of academic and creative subjects.Chorus stands out as her favorite, givingher the opportunity to develop her voiceand prepare for future singingopportunities. Science is among herstrongest subjects, while math presentsmore of a challenge — though sheapproaches it with a positive attitude.Her teachers have made a lastingimpression. She points to math teacherMadison Lane for her relatable andengaging approach, as well as social studiesteacher Tonya Nobles, whose kindness hashelped create a welcoming classroomenvironment.Beyond academics, Formyduval isactively involved in school life. Sheparticipates in cheerleading, Beta Club andchorus, and enjoys spending time withfriends during activities like basketball inphysical education. Whether performing,competing or collaborating, she values theconnections she builds with others.Outside of school, her schedule is filledwith creative and social pursuits. She takesdance classes at Simply Dance, studiesguitar and is involved in the youth leagueat Cornerstone Free Will Baptist Church.She also enjoys shopping with her mother,skating at the Anchorage, spending timewith family and exploring new placesthrough travel.Formyduval’s achievements reflect herdedication and talent. She has earned the2025 Soprano Award, was selected asChorus Media Officer for the 2024-25 schoolyear, participated in Celebrate the Arts andwas inducted into the National Junior BetaClub.Looking ahead, she has both practicalgoals and creative dreams. She hopes toattend North Carolina State University andhas considered studying marine biology,inspired in part by family trips to CherryStaying True: Sadie EleaseFormyduval EmbracesIndividuality and InspirationChorus, cheer and community shape awell-rounded sixth-grade experience
31Formyduval’s strongsense of faith providesa clear foundation forher decisions andoutlook.
Formyduval’screativity —from music todigital art —suggests astudent withstrongexpressivepotential. 32
Her emphasis onindividuality, paired withpositivity, reflects bothconfidence and emotionalmaturity at a young age.33
Grove Beach. At the same time, she dreamsof becoming a singer-songwriter andenvisions working in a coffee shop duringher college years.Her interests extend into hobbies likebracelet-making, drawing and creatingcartoon videos on her phone — along with aplayful talent for impersonations andaccents.“I like to change my voice or sound theway other people do,” she said.At her core, Formyduval valuesindividuality, describing it as one of hergreatest strengths.“Having my own individuality and nottrying to be like others,” she said, “but alsohaving common interests with friends.”That balance — staying true to herselfwhile connecting with others — defines astudent who approaches life with optimism,creativity and a strong sense of purpose.34
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This Page: At a recent meet at West Columbus High School AhmeraMoore plants her feet in the long jump. Opposite page: Top left,Kyzerria McKeithan make the leap; top right, an East Bladen HighSchool runner increases his speed for the jump; bottom left, JuliusBattle in his stride; and bottom right, Xavier Savage lands in the sand.36
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This Page: At a recent meet at West Columbus High School, anEast Bladen High School runner leads Gabriel Green in a relay.Oppposite page: Kaybre Cummings and an East Bladen runner.38
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40 Story Continued on Page 44Story and PhotosBy FULLER ROYALilliams Township School,eighth-grader CooperCartrette is building areputation as a dedicated athlete, strongteammate and student grounded in faith.Cartrette, 14, thrives in anenvironment where teamwork andcompetition go hand in hand. Hisfavorite part of school centers aroundbasketball, where he values thechemistry and shared commitment ofhis team.“We have great chemistry and worktogether as a team,” he said.That team-first mindset extendsacross his school experience. Cartrette isa multi-sport athlete, competing inbasketball, football and soccer, whilealso balancing academics and leadershipresponsibilities as a member of the BetaClub.In the classroom, math stands out ashis strongest subject, while physicaleducation ranks as his favorite. Heenjoys the opportunity to stay active andcompete in a variety of sports, blendinghis academic day with his passion forathletics.Cartrette credits much of hisdevelopment to the coaches and mentorswho have guided him along the way.Among them is Coach Clint Watts, whohas coached him in multiple sports andplayed a key role in helping him improveon the basketball court.“He helps me become a betterbasketball player,” Cartrette said.His biggest influence, however,comes from home. He looks up to hisfather, who pushes him to work hardboth on and off the court and has helpedshape him into the athlete he is today.Cartrette’s commitment has alreadyled to significant accomplishments. Hehas been named defensive player of theyear for his school basketball team,earned recognition as an academicmarshal and received an invitation tocompete in the AAU WorldChampionship basketball tournament.Outside of school, his focus remainson sports and faith. He plays on travelbasketball and baseball teams, spendstime fishing and stays active in hischurch community. He takes pride inFrom local courts to national tournaments,Cooper Cartrette’s goals continue to grow.Driven to Compete:Multi-Sport Athlete Sets HisSights on the Next Level W
FCartrette’s identity as a“Christian athlete” reflectsa strong integration offaith and competition inhis life.41
42 His multi-sportinvolvement andaccolades point to bothathletic versatility anddiscipline.
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44 being a “Christian athlete,” a role thatinfluences both his mindset and hisgoals.“I try to tell others about Jesus,” hesaid.Looking ahead, Cartrette hasambitious plans. He hopes to playDivision I basketball at University ofFlorida and eventually reach the NBA.At the same time, he envisionsreturning home one day to give back asa high school coach.His drive is matched by acompetitive edge and a unique skill set.In baseball, he is able to hit both righthanded and left-handed — a rare abilitythat highlights his versatility as anathlete.Through it all, Cartrette remainsfocused on growth, discipline andpurpose, using both his talent and hisplatform to pursue excellence andinspire others.
45His long-term vision —from Division Ibasketball to coaching— shows a clear senseof direction andpurpose at an early
46 Top image: Duran Dubinin, Tyson Strickland, Zackary Ward, ScottSmith, Jackson DeMoss, Mackenzie Jordan and Cooper WareRudnik comprise the trumpet line in the middle school band atCelebrate the Arts. Bottom left, Riley Medford adjusts his music;bottom right, high school actors rehearse.
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This Page: In a recent game betweenEast Columbus Junior-Senior and NorthDuplin high schools, Xavier King, topphoto, fires off a pitch while BrooksMcLean, lower photo, waits for the pitch.Opposite page: In the top photo, theNorth Duplin teams watches theirbatter. In the bottom photo, KhariBowens checks his pop fly.48
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