Greer French has been announced as the valedictorian of the Dawson County High School class of 2012, and Jessica Smith will be the class salutatorian.

Naming and honoring the valedictorian and salutatorian is one of the most rewarding times of the years, said Dr. Jute Wilson, principal of the high school. To be recognized as the top academic performer, over the course of four years, speaks for itself.

French, who is the daughter of Tom and MeloDee French of Dawsonville, already has her post-graduation plans in place. I am going to Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville (Ga.), and want to major in pre-physical therapy. Beyond that, French plans to earn her Ph.D. in the field, and then move on to become a pediatric physical therapist.

Over her high school career, French has been involved in the Juniorettes and Venturing. I loved my family and consumer science classes, she continued.

My best advice to students ... is dont stress, she said. Just have fun! High school is over before you know it.

Smith, the daughter of Don and Dianne Smith of Dawsonville, will attend Lee University in Cleveland, Tenn. Im planning on majoring in intercultural studies, to lead to mission field work, she said.

Earlier in her high school career, Smith was on the competition cheerleading team. She is currently involved with the National Honor Society. [In high school] Ive enjoyed my AP Psychology class, Smith said. What Im learning is applicable to everyday life, which isnt always the case with some classes.

My advice to students is to get involved, she continued, explaining that Dawson County High School offers so many activities to students that it is easy to find a particular passion. Its important to take advantage of the opportunities afforded to you in high school.

There is no doubt both of these young ladies will succeed and make the Dawson County community proud with whatever endeavor they choose to pursue, Wilson said. I cant wait to see what the future holds for such promising, bright and talented students.

French and Greer will speak at the high schools graduation, scheduled for May 26.