GORDON COUNTY, GA — Gordon County Schools recognized a number of outstanding student achievements during the April 13 Board of Education meeting, highlighting academic excellence, state-level success and the teachers who helped make it possible.
Among those recognized were the district’s 2026 valedictorians and salutatorians.
At Gordon Central High School, Keira Bryson was named valedictorian. She plans to attend the University of Georgia and major in Elementary Education. The school’s salutatorian is Seth Kolterman, who plans to attend the United States Air Force Academy.
At Sonoraville High School, Rushi Patel was recognized as valedictorian. He plans to attend Georgia Tech and major in Finance. Morgan Guyton was named salutatorian and plans to attend the University of Georgia to major in English.
The board also recognized Zillionaire Li Ou, a freshman at Gordon Central High School, for earning first place in the 9th–10th grade animation category at the state Technology Competition. School leaders also thanked teacher and sponsor Heather Stodghill and Instructional Technology Coordinator Whitney Prather for their support in helping students succeed in the competition.
In addition, Gordon County Schools honored its 2026 STAR Students and STAR Teachers.
At Sonoraville High School, Morgan Guyton was named the school’s STAR Student. She selected science teacher Samantha Watson as her STAR Teacher, praising her passion for science, her ability to teach difficult concepts and her dedication to students. Guyton said she especially appreciates the way Watson builds strong relationships while maintaining high academic expectations.
At Gordon Central High School, Seth Kolterman was named STAR Student. He selected English teacher Shannon Rainwater as his STAR Teacher, saying she helped him learn to think critically about literature and write more effectively for competitions. Kolterman said he values the impact Rainwater has had on his understanding of literary works.
Gordon County Schools said it is proud of the accomplishments of these students and the educators who have played such an important role in their success.