S-C junior plans to dive into life by graduating a year early

McKenzy Kennedy goes to the pool every day, works on her tan and enjoys watching children play in the water. The full-time lifeguard has saved three lives and in the fall will be saving time by graduating from high school a year early.

Kennedy, 16, will technically begin her junior year of Smith-Cotton High School in the fall.

“My sister graduated early and I saw how much she enjoyed college,” Kennedy said. “I’m going to graduate early to get a jump start on college.”

Kennedy has been a varsity cheerleader, landed the lead role in “Seussical the Musical,” has been in the A+ honors program and is currently working two jobs.

“I like to keep myself busy,” Kennedy said. “I really don’t like just laying around.”

The lifeguard began working at Liberty Park pool when she was 14 years old. She began in the concession stand and working admissions before being able to become a lifeguard when she turned 15.

“I saw how much fun the lifeguards had and how challenging it was and it made me want to become a lifeguard as well,” Kennedy said.

In her years as a lifeguard, Kennedy has saved three children’s lives who have jumped off the diving board not knowing how to swim well.

“Once you start the day, that’s when you start saving lives,” Kennedy said. “I actually really enjoy that.”

Amy Epple, recreation superintendent for Sedalia Parks and Recreation, said Kennedy is attentive and affirmative, both qualities lifeguards need to have.

“She’s a very good lifeguard,” Epple said. “She’s very outgoing and she loves people and she’s great with kids.”

Kennedy also works as a host at Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill in Sedalia. Although she stays busy with work, she has had to keep her grades high in order to graduate a year earlier than the rest of her classmates.

Danielle, Kennedy’s older sister, inspired her to study and work hard so the two can eventually open a business together.

Kennedy plans to attend State Fair Community College to major in business management.

Class acts
Each Monday, the Democrat will tell the story of a student in the area who performs exceptionally well, in and out of the classroom. If you know a student, in kindergarten through college, who has made a difference or does something unique, let us know about it. E-mail your suggestion to tfennell@sedaliademocrat.com or awalther@sedaliademocrat.com or call 660-826-1000, ext. 211.