Ohio Lawmakers Looking To Make High Schools Require Naming Valedictorians 

The valedictorian title has traditionally been awarded to the graduating student with the highest GPA.

(Columbus, Oh.)  --  Lawmakers say they are introducing legislation that would require Ohio high schools to name both a valedictorian and a salutatorian in their graduating classes. 

Supporters of the bill say it was written in response to Mason High School outside Cincinnati and their decision to stop bestowing the honors on students. 

“This will help reduce the overall competitive culture at MHS to allow students to focus on exploring learning opportunities that are of interest of them,” the school said in a statement. 

The new bill's sponsors say recognizing a valedictorian and salutatorian promotes positive academic competition and those top achievers should be rewarded. 

“These students work hard to become the top academically achieving students in their class and deserve recognition. Competition fosters excellence and we should be encouraging that. It’s decisions like not naming a valedictorian that creates the ‘everyone gets a trophy,’ lazy culture that is often discussed,” said State Rep. Niraj Antani (R-Miamisburg), who filed the bill.

Opponents of the bill say it would cause a ranking system for students which could jeopardize scholarship opportunities in competitive districts that are limited to those in the top 10 percent of their class. 

More from Local News


Events

Dearborn County Chamber of Commerce to Host 2026 Post-Legislative Luncheon

The event will be held at Ivy Tech Riverfront Campus.

Speed Limit to be Reduced on U.S. 50 in Aurora

The reduced speed limit is intended to improve safety along U.S. 50.

INDOT Implements New Roadway Worker Safety Initiative

Project Greenlight is a program to equip highway workers with Guardian Angel safety lights.

VIDEO: Switz. Co. Team Manager Delivers Magical Moment on Senior Night

Luke Sullivan was surprised the day of the game that he would dress for the game.

IHSAA Boys Basketball State Tournament Begins Next Week

A total of 404 teams will compete across four classifications.

On Air

Rick Bernius playing
Lainey Wilson - Heart Like a Truck

Eddie Rabbitt Every Which Way But Loose 14:55
Eric Paslay Friday Night 14:52
Jason Aldean Hicktown 14:48
Hardy Favorite Country Song 14:42