Valedictorian
AthenS
Gaden Riquelme
Gaden Riquelme is the Athens High School class of 2026 valedictorian. He will graduate on May 29, with a grade point average of 110.868, as of the most recently available calculations. Additionally, as a student in Athens ISD’ s PINNACLE Early College High School program, he will graduate from Trinity Valley Community College on May 15, with an associate’ s degree.
Riquelme has been involved in a variety of extracurricular activities throughout high school. During his junior year, he served as community service chair for the National Honor Society and was president his senior year. He was a dedicated member of the UIL math team beginning his freshman year, advancing to regionals every year. He also participated in Science Olympiad, placing in some of the events he competed in.
Riquelme has also been active in the community. He helped in concession stands, assisted at a local art camp, and worked with younger students who compete in UIL math. He also participated in community projects such as Trunk-or-Treat, Trick-or-Treat for Cans, and helping teachers at South Athens Elementary.
Riquelme plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin and pursue a career in robotics. He is thankful for the continuous support of his family and teachers.
Salutatorian
Gage Stasko
Gage Stasko is the Athens High School class of 2026 salutatorian. He will graduate on May 29, with a grade point average of 107.881, as of the most recently available calculations.
Stasko has been involved in a variety of extracurricular activities throughout high school. He participated in UIL academics, including number sense, general math and general science, and was a member of Science Olympiad from sophomore through senior year. In addition, he was a member of the construction team for several years, where he competed successfully, including
earning a Best of Show award.
Stasko has also served his school community in several ways. He has tutored classmates, worked as a student ambassador assisting with school events and general office duties, and served as a junior usher, helping with events for graduating seniors.
Stasko plans to attend the University of Texas at Tyler to study electrical engineering. He is grateful for the support his parents have given him over the years and for the trust they have placed in him.
Greater Athens Magazine | May 2026 | 25