Here's to the cream of the crop

Consider this editorial a validation and a salute — to Kootenai County high school valedictorians and salutatorians.

This week, The Press is dedicating front-page real estate to recognize our public schools’ highest achievers. The Merriam-Webster definition of valedictorian is “the student usually having the highest rank in a graduating class who delivers the valedictory address at the commencement exercises.” Salutatorian, the dictionary says, is “the student usually having the second highest rank in a graduating class who delivers the salutatory address at the commencement exercises.”

Times have changed so that the wealth is sometimes spread a bit generously, putting more kids in the winner’s circle. Between the six largest high schools in the county, 22 students have earned the mantle of either valedictorian or salutatorian. While math is rarely a journalist’s strong suit, it’s not an error that six schools have produced 22 vals and sals. Lakeland High School chose four valedictorians and three salutatorians, while Timberlake has three valedictorians and two salutatorians. Only Lake City High School and Coeur d’Alene Charter Academy have the more traditional one of each.

But what all of these schools have in common is this: Environments that encourage learning, that help produce stellar performers. That means good teachers, too. And we suspect that behind every one of these outstanding students, you’ll find a parent or guardian who’s nothing short of inspirational. If it takes a village to raise a child, it usually takes a team to elevate a star player.

In case you were wondering, North Idaho STEM Charter Academy in Rathdrum wasn’t snubbed by The Press. It’s simply too young still. Next year it’ll have its first class of graduating seniors, and you can bet its best will be pretty darned good.

Meantime, here’s a challenge to the guys. Fellas, you need to step up your classroom game. All 12 valedictorians this year are females, and only two of the 10 salutatorians are guys — both from Lakeland.

To all these students, hear our praise. Your excellence is admired and appreciated. If tomorrow is going to be better than today, you’re going to need to lead the way.