May 6, 2026 – Amarillo ISD kicks off our annual Senior Stories series this week, featuring a few select members of the Class of 2026 with unique accomplishments and interesting stories. We wish we could tell every story because this class has so many standout students. Read on for our first story.

Barrett Stroud will soon leave Amarillo for the dramatic, hilly, rocky topography surrounding the Hudson River in West Point, New York. It’s a steep 1,700 miles away and a stark contrast from the only place he’s ever lived.

“I love Amarillo. A lot of people hate how flat it is. I love being able to see a long way,” says Barrett.

Almost nobody would miss the wind. But don’t count Barrett among them.

“As silly as it is, I’ll miss the wind,” he says.

And yes, Barrett knows it will be cold.

“It will be cold, but I guess the answer is warm clothes,” he laughs.

In February, on a family road trip to Colorado, Barrett received his official appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point. The process is long and requires top-tier grades, excellent physical fitness, high ACT/SAT scores, and, most notably, a congressional nomination.

“It was a relief, definitely a moment of pride for myself,” he says. “I wanted to push myself to go somewhere I felt I could learn to be exceptional,” explains Barrett. “I found the kind of education I wanted, great camaraderie, and somewhere I could push myself in every aspect at West Point.”

Barrett, who grew up outdoors hunting and fishing, wants to study environmental engineering.

“I really enjoy spending time outdoors, especially in places that are wild and untouched. My love for fishing led me to the idea of conserving natural environments as they are and protecting them, while also integrating them with modern society. I understand that we need wild places, but we also need to develop and move forward, so I think finding that happy medium is what draws me in.”

Barrett’s graduation from Amarillo High is just a few weeks away, and he's due at West Point at the end of June. He turns pensive, thinking about the changes ahead.

“Amarillo made me who I am. The people and the culture are an integral part of me, but I’m ok with experiencing something else,” says Barrett. “I think West Point prepares you to not only serve your country, but to lead others in the service of your country. That to me feels like a conviction that is very hard for me to put words to.”

Photo Credit: Brit Nicole https://britnicolephotography.com/