Thomas County Central High School has announced its Class of 2019 valedictorian, salutatorian and honor graduates.
Valedictorian is Cynthia Ramos, who calls the recognition a great honor.
“I was certainly surprised to learn that I am the valedictorian,” Ramos said. “TCCHS has many competitive students who work eagerly, so it was difficult to earn this honor. At the end of my sophomore year, I learned that I was ranked second in my class. I figured I might as well try for No. 1 by pushing myself a little more. Although ‘valedictorian’ is just a title, it symbolizes my resolve for success throughout high school. My parents never forced me to make excellent grades; I earned this honor because of my determination.”
The biggest lesson Ramos says she’s learned from high school is to limit herself.
“Many students stress over extracurricular activities, sports, and AP and college classes,” she said. “It is difficult for me to function at my best under so much stress. When I begin nursing classes, I will remember to limit myself so that I can fully enjoy my college experience.”
Ramos plans to attend Southern Regional Technical College and pursue her goal of becoming a registered nurse.
Salutatorian is Langley Wooten. Some of her school extracurricular, academic and service activities include varsity soccer, forensics team, cheerleading, Chick-Fil-A Leader Academy, student ambassadors, cross country, student council, Fellowship of Christian Athletes leadership team and acting as lieutenant governor of Georgia’s Youth Assembly.
“I am humbled by the opportunity, not for the award,” Wooten said. “The title has opened many doors for my future. I never strove to be salutatorian, it just kind of happened. I've always worked hard to attend a service academy, so the grades came with it.”
Her fond memories from high school include early morning cross country meets.
“The adrenaline of running and being with friends made the best memories,” she said.
Wooten plans to attend the United States Naval Academy and live a career as a U.S. Navy officer.
Twenty-seven students have earned honor graduate distinction. These pupils have a cumulative high school grade point average, or GPA, of 93 or higher. Honorees are Kamesha Adams, Kealie Bennett, Rachel Briscoe, Tyler Carter, Christian Cohen, Kuldip Delada, Sarah Fulghum, Anna Greek, Emily Greek, Carter Groom, Ann Guo, Katelyn Hancock, Coleman Hollis, Leila Hurst, Chelsey Lawler, Ethan Mims, Emily Owens, Dev Patel, Caroline Pope, Cynthia Ramos, Brooklyn Reese, Adam Tedder, Landon Trotter, Ben Wilhelm, Tamara Williams, Abigail Witcher and Langley Wooten.
Tamara Williams is happy to be named an honor graduate.
“It shows that I have managed to maintain good grades throughout high school,” she said. “It feels good to know I will be recognized for my hard work. This accomplishment shows me that determination and being diligent is recognized. It encourages me to not settle for less and always seek for a better outcome. Being an honor graduate lets me know my work, whether it’s at college or in a workplace, should always be my best work. Award or no award, as long as I put dedication in what I do, that is all that matters in the end.”
Fellow honor graduate Kamesha Adams feels blessed and accomplished.
“I worked hard and diligently for all four years of high school, and to be honored because of that really touches my heart and mind. This is something I wanted as I’ve seen it as a goal since 10th grade.”
Carter Groom is excited to be named an honor grad.
“I strove to be one for my entire high school career,” he said. “This accomplishment means a lot to me because of all my hard work, and I want to make my parents proud.”
Honor grads encourage current and returning students to always strive for academic excellence.
“Students should always attempt to do their best academically,” Williams said. “They will surprise themselves more than they know. The knowledge they build over time will help them in the long run. Students who focus on their academics and take pride in their work will know what it is like to have hard work pay off, especially by the time they graduate.”
Adams believes more students should focus on what matters.
“I see many students don’t take school as seriously as they should, but going to school, doing your work, studying, turning in assignments on time, and in all just being a decent student can and will always pay off,” she said. “It paves the way for many things and prepares you for the real world. Don’t take advantage of school – excel in it.”
TCCHS graduation is Saturday, May 25.
Wooten wants her speech’s contents to be a surprise. Ramos’ valedictory speech will center on success.
“My speech will be about the importance of success, something noteworthy to students entering the real world,” she said. “I plan to discuss ‘truth,’ the motivating force behind success.”
Groom anticipates putting on his honor grad stole and walking across the stage to accept his diploma.
“I will feel accomplished after all my hard work,” he said. “I look forward to receiving my diploma and shaking hands.”