Northeast Texas native gets tapped for West Point

A goal set during childhood will soon be realized for Ethan Jennings, a 2020 graduate of Maud High School, as he prepares to embark on a career at the United States Military Academy at West Point Academy in New York beginning July 12, 2020.

Jennings was a student at Atlanta Primary and Elementary schools and Champions Christian Academy before moving to Maud.

“Since the age of 8 I knew that I wanted to follow in my father’s footsteps and serve our country in the US Army. After some research, I realized that West Point was my dream path to achieve this goal”, said Jennings, “I am so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the West Point legacy and to join the ranks of the 2024 Class.”

Valedictorian of his class, Jennings earned a record-setting $504,000 in college scholarship offers including a full ride to Texas A&M – Commerce and National Army ROTC full-tuition scholarship to Texas A&M College Station.

“I was so honored to have so many great options for my future but West Point is the right choice for me”, Jennings said.

Jennings received a 32 on his ACT and placed in the 96th percentile on the military aptitude test (ASVAB).

During high school, Jennings was active in FFA, robotics, theater, baseball, basketball, cross country, track and football. He was an active youth member of First Baptist Church in Maud.

Sherri Prater, Jennings’ math teacher, said that he was one of her best students.

“I have known Ethan for five years and had the pleasure of teaching him for three. He was one of my best students, not only wanting the grade but truly wanting to understand and learn the material. It was also fun to have him in class because of his sense of humor. I am so proud that he was accepted into West Point and I have no doubt that he is going to do great there”, Prater said.

Jennings received a nomination to West Point Academy from former U.S. Congressman John Ratcliffe.

“I am truly grateful to all those who helped me with this endeavor. One of my greatest hopes is that my success will help other kids from small towns realize that attending West Point or one of the other service academies is within their reach. They just need to set that intention early and never waiver in their focus. It’s hard work but our country is worth the commitment,” Jennings said.

West Point has made some modifications to the normal schedule of activities for the incoming class of 2024 including shortened cadet basic training and staggered report times.

Jennings is the son of Hugh and Necy Jennings of Maud and the grandson of Dorothy Edwards and Linda Price of Maud.