Joshua McLean, known by many as “J-Money” (J$), was homeschooled until his freshman year. “I really appreciated being homeschooled but being public-schooled my freshman year was really good for me because it made me a more social person,” McLean said. He enjoys being involved in many activities such as band, choir, speech, tennis and National Honor Society. He was elected president of NHS, one of his many accomplishments throughout his high school career. “I appreciate the authority that has been entrusted to me, and I like the people in NHS. It’s definitely a fun group,” McLean said. Another accomplishment for him was getting to be a drum major. “I like the people in band and I always have fun doing it,” said McLean.

One of McLean’s favorite memories while in high school was winning the Homecoming football game during his senior year. “It was an event I’ll always remember and it was nice to experience a Homecoming win in my last year of high school,” said McLean.

McLean’s mom has had an important impact on his life, being a “constant guiding force” in his life. “Specifically, she homeschooled me, so she taught me the necessary educational skills in 3rd through 8th grade,” said McLean. His mom is there with a helping hand when he when he needs it and “she’s also really good at making cookies and can make me laugh.” McLean said his mom is always there to help out with things like English and Spanish.

When he was young, McLean wanted to grow up to be a garbage man. “I would always see them riding on the back of the truck and I thought it would be really fun,” McLean said. Now he plans to attend Washington University in St. Louis to study engineering. “I’ve always been really good at math and I always say ‘If you’re good at something, never do it for free,’” said McLean.