February 16, 2026 Local Stories in and Around St. Joseph, Illinois

Senior spotlight…. Payton Clements

What are your post high school plans?
After high school, I plan on attending Bradley university and majoring in environmental sciences biology with a background in law.

What is the best thing about SJO?
The size of SJO is what makes SJO a better high school in the area because everyone knows everyone.

Who is your biggest inspiration?
My biggest inspiration would have to be my parents, they guide me in making life choices as well as understanding my point of view on certain things.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years I see myself as a conservation officer in the Champaign county area.

What is your favorite class at SJO?
My favorite class at SJO would have to be the Ag machinery services class because it is 46 minutes of working on our own Ag related projects, the class pushes us to be innovative and think ahead and that is what I enjoy most about it.

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