By Haley Mitchell Godwin 

Meghan White and Raylee J. Lowe have proven themselves to be exceptional students at Highland Home High School, claiming the top spots as valedictorian and salutatorian of the Class of 2023, respectively. 

Their achievements extend far beyond their academic success, having a  significant impact on their school and community. 

According to senior class sponsor Casey Jane Cothran, White and Lowe’s dedication, kindness, and hard work make it clear that they are destined for success. 

“These two young women have not only demonstrated academic excellence but have also made a significant impact on their school and community through their involvement in various extracurricular activities,’ Cothran said. “Raylee and Meg are two of the kindest, hard working, and dedicated students I’ve had the pleasure to teach. They go above and beyond with anything they do and never pass up an opportunity to help others. I have no doubt that they will each soar in their future endeavors whatever they may be.”

White, the daughter of Christopher and Joni White, will be attending Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) to pursue a degree in early childhood education. White’s passion for teaching and her drive to inspire future generations are evident in her words.

“Since my first day of school, I knew I wanted to be a teacher,” White said. “Since that day I have worked to make this a reality so that one day I can give back and teach the future generations here that are full of potential.” 

White has been a student at Highland Home School since K4. Her exceptional academic achievements have earned her several scholarships, including the 2023 Superintendents of Alabama/Curriculum Associates District 3 Scholarship, the AUM Counselor Scholarship, the USA Freshman Admission Scholarship, and the University of West Alabama Trustee Scholarship package, which includes the Dean’s Award (Trustee Academic Award) and the Trustee Leadership Scholarship. White has also been awarded Huntingdon College’s James W. Wilson, Jr. Scholarship. She has also earned 15 credit hours through Dual Enrollment at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College. 

White has been actively involved in various student organizations. She served as the Senior Class Secretary, President and Events Manager of the Future Teachers of America (FTA), and Treasurer of the Future Career and Community Leaders of America. Her artistic talents were recognized when she won the FTA State Competition T-Shirt Design Contest.

Lowe is currently serving as a LBW Ambassador and plans to take part in LBW’s Path to the Plains transfer program, which will enable her to transfer to Auburn University to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing with a minor in Accounting. Her ultimate goal is to become involved in real estate and sales. 

Lowe, the daughter of Jessica and Scottie Lowe, has been a part of the Highland Home school community since kindergarten.and her commitment to excellence has earned her various scholarships, including the Mississippi State Non-Resident Tuition Scholarship, Mississippi State Merit Scholarship, LBW Ambassador Scholarship, and Auburn Leadership Scholarship.

In addition to her academic pursuits, Lowe has been actively involved in various organizations and clubs during her time at HHS. She served as the President of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) in the 2020-2021 school year and was a member of the Future Farmers of America (FFA). Lowe also held the position of Vice President in the Student Government Association (SGA) during the 2021-2022 school year. 

She was a member of the BETA Club, HOSA Future Health Professionals, National Technical Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and the Spanish Honor Society. Raylee’s dedication to leadership and community service is further exemplified by her role as the Senior Class President and her title as Miss Crenshaw County.

As they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their lives, White and Lowe also enjoy spending time on personal interests and appreciate time outside of academic pursuits. Lowe finds joy in activities such as tanning by the pool, spending time with family, and traveling to scenic places. White enjoys creating art, reading, and cherishing moments with her loved ones, particularly at the beach.