Governor’s Honors Program 2026 Finalists named

The Walton County School District is proud to announce that Jake Schay of Monroe Area High School and Alida Knobloch of Loganville High School have been selected as Finalists in Communicative Arts for the prestigious Governor’s Honors Program (GHP). The Governor’s Honors Program is a highly competitive residential summer program that recognizes Georgia’s most gifted and talented rising juniors and seniors.

Selected through a rigorous statewide process, Schay and Knobloch were recognized for their exceptional communication skills, creativity, and academic talent. As finalists, they will spend the summer participating in advanced instructional experiences designed to challenge and inspire some of Georgia’s highest-achieving students.

“We are incredibly proud of Jake and Alida for earning this outstanding achievement,” said Superintendent Chip Underwood. “Their selection for the Governor’s Honors Program reflects their hard work, dedication, and passion for learning. They have represented their schools and our district exceptionally well, and we look forward to seeing all they accomplish through this experience.”

A function of the Governor's Office of Student Achievement, GHP is a highly competitive summer program that will take place at Georgia Southern University. Students selected to participate explore topics not usually found in the typical high school classroom within their major area of nomination. The content is designed to provide students with academic, cultural, and social enrichment necessary to become the next generation of global critical thinkers, innovators, and leaders. During the afternoons, students choose one of the other areas in which to study. Evenings are filled with seminars, activities, concerts, and performances.