Shelby County Schools Honor 2026 Valedictorians

The district's top students are recognized for their academic excellence and achievements.

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

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The Shelby County Schools Board of Education honored the valedictorians from the class of 2026 at its recent meeting. Each student was presented with a plaque by Superintendent Dr. Lewis Brooks, who praised their hard work, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. The valedictorians represent schools across the district, including Calera High School, Chelsea High School, Helena High School, Montevallo High School, Oak Mountain High School, Shelby County High School, and Vincent Middle High School.

Why it matters

Recognizing the district's top academic performers is an important way to celebrate student achievement and inspire others to strive for excellence. Valedictorians serve as role models for their peers and demonstrate the high caliber of students in Shelby County Schools.

The details

During the ceremony, Superintendent Brooks emphasized that the valedictorian title represents more than just a high GPA - it is a testament to the students' hard work, discipline, and character. The honored students have excelled not only in the classroom, but also in extracurricular activities such as the arts, athletics, and language studies.

  • The Shelby County Schools Board of Education meeting took place on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

The players

Dr. Lewis Brooks

Superintendent of Shelby County Schools, who presented the valedictorian awards and praised the students' achievements.

Lilly Barnes

Valedictorian of Calera High School, known for her academic excellence and involvement in the arts.

Sarah Serrano

Valedictorian of Chelsea High School, who has excelled academically while also being a competitive gymnast and speaking three languages fluently.

Maycie Lewis

Valedictorian of Helena High School.

Nathan John Gallagher

Valedictorian of Montevallo High School.

Robert 'Grayson' Bou

Valedictorian of Oak Mountain High School.

Jennie Ray Owens

Valedictorian of Shelby County High School.

Emma Brown and Jordynne Rose

Co-valedictorians of Vincent Middle High School.

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What they’re saying

“Valedictorian is more than a title, it's not a calculation of a grade point average or a ranking at the top of the class. It's a testament to hard work, perseverance, discipline, character and unwavering commitment to excellence.”

— Dr. Lewis Brooks, Superintendent, Shelby County Schools (shelbycountyreporter.com)

What’s next

The valedictorians will continue their academic journeys, with many planning to attend prestigious universities in the fall.

The takeaway

Shelby County Schools' commitment to recognizing and celebrating academic excellence sets a strong example for students and the community. These valedictorians have demonstrated the power of hard work, dedication, and a passion for learning, and they will undoubtedly continue to make a positive impact in the years to come.