Seventeen students from high schools in Lauderdale County are being recognized for their academic achievements during graduation ceremonies this month after spending the last four years working hard to keep up their grades and excel in the classroom.

Eight students were named valedictorian of their graduating class, meaning they ranked first in the class with the overall highest grade point average. The other nine students were named salutatorian, which means they are the second highest ranking student in their senior class.

Now, all 17 are shining at high school commencement ceremonies across Lauderdale County either delivering the keynote address or the opening remarks.

Honored as valedictorians for the Class of 2024 are Isaiah Rios of Clarkdale High School, Christian Roman of Lamar High School, Timia Graham of Meridian High School, Ashlan Ballard of Northeast Lauderdale High School, Trevor Clayton of The Pentecostal Christian Academy, Creed Moore of Russell Christian Academy, Camdon Cooper of Southeast Lauderdale High School, and Emily Snodgrass of West Lauderdale High School.

Recognized as salutatorians this year are Noah Littleton of Clarkdale High School; Emily Price of Lamar High School; Kyia Jasper of Meridian High School; Sara Lacy of Northeast Lauderdale High School; Kembre Powe of The Pentecostal Christian Academy; Emmett Cooper and Corey Kingery, both of Russell Christian Adademy; Allison Shannon of Southeast Lauderdale High School; and Emma Cruse of West Lauderdale High School.