The selection has been announced of the Sumter County Schools’ nominees for the 2025-2026 U.S. Presidential Academic and CTE Scholar Awards.
This prestigious honor is bestowed upon two seniors who excel in either academic or workforce preparation studies. One nominee for each category is selected to represent each district high school: South Sumter High School, The Villages High School and Wildwood Middle High School. This year, the district nominee selection committee has chosen the following two students to represent Sumter County in the state-wide competition:
- Sumter U.S. Presidential Academic Scholar: Jayley Lewis of South Sumter High School, Class of 2026
- Sumter U.S. Presidential CTE Scholarship: Ja’Tonyan Massey of Wildwood Middle High School, Class of 2026
The district has also recognized the nominees from each school. These students represent the best of the best in Sumter County. From Wildwood Middle High School, the Academic Scholar nominee is Noella Lipham. From The Villages High School, the Academic Scholar nominee is Audrielle Esma, and Quinn Kiley is the CTE Scholar nominee. From South Sumter High School, the CTE Scholar nominee is Jazmine Vela.
The Federal Commission on Presidential Scholars determined the 2025-2026 criterion for selection of the nominees. Students nominated for the Academic Recognition were chosen based on involvement and service to the community; leadership and character; writing samples; academic achievements; and overcoming personal obstacles or barriers. CTE students were chosen based on academic rigor; technical competence; employability skill attainment; ingenuity and creativity; and training in five sectors of the President’s Blueprint.
“Being named a U.S. Presidential Scholar is one of the highest honors a student can achieve, and we could not be more proud of these outstanding young leaders. Their dedication, intellect and character reflect the very best of Sumter County and the values we strive to instill in every student. They remind us that greatness isn’t accidental; it’s earned through hard work, perseverance and a commitment to making a difference,” said Logan W. Brown, superintendent of Sumter County Schools.