BUFORD — Buford High School junior Avery Ewing is known for her energy, organization, and the kindness she brings to everything she does — whether she’s leading a church group, mentoring younger students, or planning a fun night with friends. The daughter of Paige and Michael Ewing, Avery is also a proud big sister to Charlotte, a seventh grader who looks up to her example.
From her first days at Buford, Avery knew she wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. She chose the Education Pathway as a freshman and has spent the last few years student-teaching at local elementary schools — an experience she describes as both eye-opening and rewarding.
“Working one-on-one with kids is so rewarding,” Avery said. “I’ve learned how much impact you can have just by showing up and caring.”
When it comes to favorite classes and teachers, Avery lights up talking about Coach Wentzler, her chemistry teacher.
“He always combined learning with fun,” she said. “He’s so personable, funny, and easy to be around.”
If she could spend a whole day in one class, she said she’d be in the gym with Coach Adams, her former softball coach and team sports teacher.
“We’d play pickleball all day,” she said with a grin. “And I’d try my hardest to beat him!”
Outside the classroom, Avery shines as a member of the Buford Women’s Golf Team, National Honor Society and Beta Club. She also serves as a student leader at 12Stone Church, helping guide and encourage her peers in their faith.
After stepping away from softball, Avery found balance and a renewed love for sports through golf. She credits Coach Morris for that shift.
“She taught me to have fun in my sport and not seek athletic validation,” Avery said. “That changed how I view competition and confidence.”
Ask Avery what she loves most about Buford High, and her answer comes easily.
“We’re all a family,” she said. “We show up for each other and root for one another.”
One of her favorite traditions is the Homecoming Parade, which she grew up watching and now participates in.
“I love seeing all the people I care about in one place and watching their faces light up when they see me.”
To Avery, being a Buford Wolf means striving to be her best.
“Buford Pride means holding myself to a higher standard,” she said. “Growing up here, I’ve always been pushed to do more and become the best version of myself. Buford has instilled that in me.”
Dreams and inspiration
Avery finds her greatest inspiration at home. Her mother, Paige Ewing, recently earned the title of Mrs. America — a milestone Avery deeply admires.
“I hope to have the same confidence and drive that she does,” she said.
Looking ahead, Avery hopes to attend the University of Georgia, join a sorority and study to become a chiropractor, combining her love of science with her desire to help others.
A legacy of kindness
Reflecting on her time at Buford so far, Avery said the experience has shaped her goals — and her heart.
“I’ve learned how hard I can be on myself,” she said, “but also how much I’ve been able to achieve at a young age. I’m thankful for that.”
When all is said and done, Avery hopes her impact is measured in compassion.
“I want my classmates and teachers to remember me as someone who treated everyone with the same amount of kindness and respect,” she said. “I want to make everybody feel like somebody.”
