But that did not stop her from graduating Harleton High School in 2005 as a Texas Globe Scholar, being a member of the National Honor Society, graduating with nine hours of college credit, receiving 15 awards and scholarships at the Harleton senior recognition or serving a four-year term on the student council. It didn't keep her from serving a four-year term as a class officer, cheering for four years, earning the title of Miss Harleton High School her senior year, becoming Homecoming Queen and becoming a finalist in America's Homecoming Queen Pageant.

On July 12, Brooke received a standing ovation after speaking to about 1,200 members of the Texas Council of Administrators for Special Education at the opening ceremony of their annual convention at the Renaissance Austin Hotel. A young man from Manhattan spoke as well.

"She had a wonderful speech," said Ruth Gatlin, who is a secretary at Harleton High school and Brooke's grandmother.

She discussed her experiences of growing up with impaired hearing, her grandmother said. She told of the many obstacles that she overcame with the help of family, friends and good teachers.

After graduation, Brooke, "received the 'Yes I Can Award' along with many other awards," her grandmother said.

The award, for exceptional students, was bestowed upon Brooke for her involvement in extracurricular activities. Only 27 of these awards were given in the country, two of which were given in Texas.

In addition to educational extracurricular activities, Brooke is an active member of the youth group of Harleton Baptist Church; she plays piano, seven years of which she could not hear herself play; she is active in community services; and she barrel races.

Brooke, who plans to attend Panola College this fall, aspires to become a veterinarian technician.

From News-Journal.com