GCS Seniors Earn Millions in Scholarships

Guilford County, N.C. - Guilford County Schools (GCS) is celebrating the achievements, aspirations and next steps of the Class of 2026 as graduation season officially begins. 

Leaving with jobs, lasting experiences, career credentials and even college degrees, the Class of 2026 is a shining example of the Guilford Guarantee, showcasing the power of public education.  

When they cross the stage between June 10-12, the Class of 2026 will do so having earned $233,275,859 in scholarships and completed 233,239.5 service-learning hours, representing an $8,429,275.53 impact on the local economy. They will also graduate with college credits, career credentials, job offers, military commitments, apprenticeships across a variety of career fields and lasting memories.  

"Graduation season is our Super Bowl,” Superintendent Dr. Whitney Oakley said. “It’s a celebration of student achievement, future opportunity and a victory lap for everyone who helped our students reach this milestone. The Class of 2026 is demonstrating what is possible when students are connected to meaningful opportunities and strong support systems.”  

On Tuesday, June 9,  members of the Class of 2026 shared their journeys and dreams during the district’s annual Graduation Media Briefing. "Coming from Greenville, NC, and being at a school about 75% smaller than Northwest, I was unsure of where my place would be and if I would fit in," Owen Lin, an incoming freshman at Harvard College, said. "Thankfully, I quickly found myself surrounded by peers who turned into friends and teachers who turned into mentors, and I found myself at home."

Over the course of their academic career, the Class of 2026 took more than 11,000 college courses, saving families $2.5m in college tuition. Dormileet Barnardino Vargas is one of those students. At one point during her senior year, she was enrolled in three schools, committing to challenging herself with rigorous coursework. "That experience showed me I can excel anywhere,” Dormi reflects. “High school, college, or even in the military, I know I belong." Dormi plans to serve our country as a combat medic in the Army. 

For the third consecutive year, seniors enrolled in teaching pathway courses received job offers from GCS.  

"The goal is not to prepare students for a single destination, but to equip them with the skills, experiences, and opportunities that create multiple pathways to success," Dr. Oakley said. "By graduation, students should have the ability to pursue higher education, enter a rewarding career, or explore other postsecondary opportunities with confidence, knowing they have strong options and a solid foundation for their future."

GCS is proud of the Class of 2026. All ceremonies will be live-streamed and can be accessed at www.gcsnc.com/graduation.