The accolades just keep coming for Newton High School and NCCA STEM Institute senior, Dhakiya Knights. In just a few short weeks, she has been named Newton High School’s Class of 2023 valedictorian and even earned a full ride Stamps Scholarship to attend Mercer University. She can add one more recognition to her already accomplished list as she has now been named a 2023 Georgia Scholar by Georgia School Superintendent Richard Woods. Knights is one of only 154 graduating seniors from across the state of Georgia to earn the prestigious recognition.
“Being a Georgia Scholar is an honor,” said Knights. “I am proud to have years of hard work acknowledged this way. More than that, I'm grateful for my community which has supported me and helped me reach this new height.”
The Georgia Department of Education identifies and honors high school seniors who have achieved excellence in school and community life through the Georgia Scholar program. Each Georgia Scholar receives a seal for their diploma.
“I extend my sincerest congratulations to the 2023 Georgia Scholars," Superintendent Woods said. “These 154 Class of 2023 seniors worked hard, became leaders in their schools and communities, and took advantage of the opportunities offered in Georgia public schools. I wish them continued success as they embark on their futures, including plans for after high school and beyond. I know they'll continue to make us all proud."
Georgia Scholars carried exemplary course loads during their four years of high school, performed excellently in all courses, successfully participated in interscholastic events at their schools and communities, and assumed leadership roles in extracurricular activities sponsored by their schools. In addition to course requirements, Georgia Scholars must have a minimum combined score of 1360 on the SAT at one sitting or a composite score of 31 at one test sitting on the ACT. The student must also have a non-weighted, cumulative grade point average of at least 3.75 on a 4.0 scale in core courses. Georgia Scholars are required to be registered to vote, must show evidence of self-esteem and concern for others in day-to-day activities, and must have participate in at least three different competitive interscholastic activities such as athletics, music and literary events, fairs, exhibits and more. Finally, Georgia Scholars must have been appointed by a school official or elected to positions of leadership in a minimum of two different organizations sponsored by the school and also show evidence of leadership in a minimum of two different organizations outside of school.
“Success like this takes years of dedication and hard work,” said Chad Walker, principal of Newton College & Career Academy. “I am extremely proud of all of the success that Dhakiya has earned.”