Langston Hughes High School has announced its valedictorian and salutatorian for the Class of 2020. D’Neil James and Cydney Johnson are the school’s top scholars.
Valedictorian D’Neil James has been a consistent academic leader and currently maintains a 4.0 GPA. In May, the dual enrollment scholar will get both her high school diploma and her associate’s degree from Georgia Military College having successfully completed 81 credits hours.
During her high school career James has been named to the Principal’s List and Dean’s List. She’s a member of the National Honor Society and National Art Honor Society. Her extracurricular activities include serving on the prom committee.
“I attribute my academic success to hard work and determination,” said James. “I always get things done even when I do not feel like doing them.”
James plans to attend Clark Atlanta University in the fall where she will study fashion. She aspires to become a stylist and travel the world.
Salutatorian Cydney Johnson is graduating a year early. As a dual enrollment student at Clayton State University, she’s earned over 30 credit hours. She’s been accepted to over 50 colleges and universities and has earned over $1.5 million in scholarships.
While at Langston Hughes, Johnson has participated in competition and varsity cheerleading and has served as captain of her team. She has also been a member of the student government association and was this school year’s Miss Langston Hughes.
“This is just the beginning,” she said. “Blessed is an understatement and I will continue to thank God for everything he’s doing and will continue to do. Throughout high school, I had a tremendous amount of support from my family, friends and teachers. They inspired me to be the best version of myself. They are the reason I will excel in everything I do.”
May 1 will be the last day of school for Fulton County Schools’ seniors. Graduation ceremony details have not yet been announced. Students and school leaders have been asked by Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney to develop inventive approaches to graduation celebrations that will pay tribute to the Class of 2020 while prioritizing everyone’s safety.
Photo: Cydney Johnson and D’Neil James (Credit: Langston Hughes High School)