Senior Story: Kaylee Stracka

For Kaylee Stracka, high school has been a journey of resilience, creativity and connection. After graduation, she’ll head to the University of Minnesota Duluth to study psychology to pursue a future that blends her love for early childhood education and understanding of the human mind.

“I’m going to work hard in college and stay grateful for my support systems to keep myself motivated,” Kaylee shares. Her goals are grounded and expansive: earn her degree, explore the world and revisit France—a place she fell in love with during last year’s school trip.

That France trip wasn’t just a travel highlight but a moment of deep connection. French teacher Morgan Steele reflects, “Kaylee has persevered through many difficult situations and still shows up to create community. Her wit never ceases to amaze me, and her vlog of our French trip is one of my favorite souvenirs.”

Whether on the dance team, marching band or acting in the school musical, Kaylee has spent her high school years fully immersed in Richfield’s arts and extracurriculars. But her proudest accomplishment? “I kept working hard over the past four years even though I had a lot of trouble keeping my head up. It’s been a rough few years, but I stayed strong, made friends and built connections to help pull me through.”

Her passion for art shines in everything she does—from pottery and drawing to writing and video editing. Pottery class with Mr. Miller became a turning point. “He helped me find a new kind of art that really connected with me and that I could express myself with and enjoy.”

Kaylee’s advice for freshmen reflects her commitment to building meaningful relationships: “Talk to as many people as possible. High school isn’t always easy, and who you are changes a lot. Give yourself space to build new connections—those people will help carry you through the hard times.”

At home, Kaylee draws strength from her family, including her parents, siblings and especially her younger brothers. Outside of school, she finds peace in nature and joy in music and creativity.

Looking ahead, Kaylee hopes to travel widely—with Oregon’s redwood forests next on her list. No matter where life takes her, she carries the Richfield values of community, courage and compassion.

Congratulations, Kaylee—we can’t wait to see where your journey leads next!