Bellaire High School has 13 valedictorians in the Class of 2022, surpassing last year’s record-breaking nine students who graduated with a perfect grade point average.

Among the valedictorians are a homecoming king and an editor-in-chief of the school newspaper.

Margaret Schwierking, Jason Yao, Owen Zhang, Katherine Chen, Sophia Hernandez, Collin Crockett, Justice Cordova, Annie Lin, Crystal Tang, Albert Zhu, Donne Su, Nina Zhang, and Richard Lin all earned a 5.0 GPA.

“We must not forget that half of their high school experience happened during a pandemic. Yet, despite all the challenges, they still earned a perfect GPA,” said Superintendent Millard House II. “I congratulate the valedictorians and salutatorians from all our high school campuses. Their persistence and dedication will allow them to achieve amazing success in the years ahead.”

Valedictorian Sophia Hernandez says her most challenging time over the past four years was when classes were virtual. “The pandemic made it especially hard to keep our grades up,” she said. “It’s a challenge when you are working alone. But, it is always easier when you are around your peers.”

Hernandez is editor-in-chief of Bellaire High School’s Three Penny Press, a member of the student council, and student president of the League of United Latin American Citizens Bellaire High School Chapter.

Valedictorian Owen Zhang says the virtual phase took a great deal of focus. “We all adjusted and learned to communicate during the virtual period,” he said. “It was tough in the beginning, but we adapted.”

Zhang serves on the student council, is a member of the Business Professionals of America Club, volunteers with the American Red Cross, and was elected the 2021 Homecoming King.

Principal Michael McDonough says he’s always impressed with his valedictorians. They produce high grades while participating in numerous extracurricular activities. “They are impressive academically, are class leaders, and maximize the opportunities at Bellaire High School,” he said.

The top 13 Bellaire High School students will join dozens of other HISD valedictorians and salutatorians at the annual Scholars Recognition Ceremony on Tuesday, April 12, at 6:30 p.m. at Delmar Fieldhouse, 2020 Mangum Road, 77092.