The Texas School for the Deaf (TSD) has launched a scholarship in memory of Kaylee Hottle, an 18-year-old student and actress known for her role in the “Godzilla vs. Kong” films, who tragically passed away in a car accident in July. This annual scholarship will award up to $2,500 to graduating seniors who exemplify Hottle’s spirit as student-athletes engaged in the performing arts.
Kaylee was set to begin her senior year when she lost her life on July 21. In her memory, TSD held a memorial service to celebrate her as an actress, friend, and classmate who brought joy and compassion to those around her. Her father expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support the family received, noting it demonstrated how deeply Kaylee was loved and missed.
In the wake of her passing, discussions arose about how the school could honor her legacy. Peter Bailey, the superintendent of TSD, highlighted the community’s desire to ensure that Kaylee’s memory would continue to inspire future students. “There were many requests on social media asking what TSD could do to preserve her legacy,” he stated.
Bailey emphasized that one of the school’s main goals following Kaylee’s death was to create a meaningful tribute to a student who touched so many lives. This led to the establishment of the Kaylee Hottle Student Athlete Scholarship, designed to reflect the values she embodied.
Despite her international fame, Kaylee was known for her humility and desire to experience school life just like any other student. “Many people may not realize that Kaylee was a very humble human being. She wanted to maintain a normalcy of just any other student,” Bailey noted. At TSD, she excelled in track and field, setting numerous records in hurdles, and also participated in basketball, cross-country, and performing arts, all while displaying unwavering school spirit.
The scholarship will be awarded annually to one or two seniors who meet specific criteria: they must be athletes, engaged in theater arts or performances, and demonstrate significant school spirit. “Everything she did at school had a profound impact on everyone. Her character is reflected in that scholarship,” Bailey remarked, expressing hope that recipients would feel a connection to Kaylee’s legacy.
Applications for the scholarship will open each year, with funding dependent on donations. The Texas School for the Deaf has already seen a positive response from the community, with contributions to the scholarship fund beginning to accumulate. Donations can be made directly to TSD or through the TSD Foundation.
As the new school year approaches, Kaylee’s absence is deeply felt among her peers, who had looked forward to sharing their senior year with her. “Many of her classmates are mourning the events she will miss, like senior trips and sports tournaments,” Bailey added.
Bailey concluded with a poignant reminder of the fragility of life, urging everyone to cherish their time together. “Time is precious. Tomorrow is never promised,” he said.
