For Kingston High School senior Layton Corntassel, being involved in school is more than just extracurriculars— it’s a way to contribute, create and grow. After spending seven years at Kingston, Corntassel said he has discovered a place where his passions intersect, from photography and esports to welding and volunteering in the community.
He didn’t start out thinking he’d become a jack-of-alltrades in school activities. What began as a curiosity about photography quickly evolved into a meaningful pursuit.
He discovered a love for capturing moments that mightotherwisegounnoticed and that passion has guided much of his time at Kingston. Each activity he’s joined offers something unique: esports provides a thrill of competition and teamwork, welding allows him to build and create and volunteering gives him the chance to be someone others can rely on.
His dedication and reliability haven’t gone unnoticed. Corntassel’s commitment to helping teachers, staff and fellow students— alongwithhisinvolvementin theNationalHonorSociety— demonstrates a leadership rooted in service. Stepping into these roles has strengthened his confidence, showing him that he can make a real difference in the lives of those around him.
He said the quote, “The desert will teach you more about water than the ocean ever could” really resonates with him because it reminds him that many often learn the most from challenges, struggles and moments of scarcity—not from comfort or abundance. Life doesn’t always give people what they want easily, and it’s in those “desert” moments that they grow, appreciate what they have and discover their own strength.
For him, it applies to everything he’s involved in—photography, esports, welding, volunteering and helping others. The hard moments, when things are tough or uncertain, teach him perseverance, patience and gratitude.
They push him to work harder, trust in God, rely on his family and friends and keep moving forward even when the path seems difficult. The desert moments remind him that the greatest lessons—and the greatest growth—often come from struggle.
Looking ahead, he said he hopes to carry these lessons into his future, continuing to combine skill, creativity and service in whatever path he chooses.Whetherit’sthrough photography, a future career or simply helping others along the way, he said he wants to build a life defined by purpose and impact.