Editor’s note: This is the first in a series of feature stories celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorians and salutatorians at the five high schools in Shelby County.
Noah Mitchell is not afraid of a little hard work.
The recent Waldron High School graduate has two jobs this summer – working with his father at Credence Solutions and doing landscaping work for Linville Lawn Care.
There is no concrete life plan in place. Mitchell admits he is interested in plumbing.
Waldron’s Valedictorian for the Class of 2026 will attend Ivy Tech in the fall to begin work toward a business degree. Where he goes after the first two years of his education is not yet decided.
“I might go to a 4-year college after that or be done there,” he said.
Mitchell admits he was not surprised to be ranked No. 1 in his graduating class when he was a freshman.
“I think throughout the years it became more surreal,” he said.
Once at the top, he had no interest in slipping back in the ranking. By the time the second semester rolled around of his senior year, he was in a position where he could not be surpassed.
With the honor of being named valedictorian comes the privilege of addressing the senior class and all in attendance at graduation.
“Nervewracking. I was sitting in my chair about to be announced and about to throw up,” he said with a smile. “It was crazy watching everyone in our grade and looking out and seeing all our families and friends that came out to support us at our graduation. It was a really cool experience.”
Mitchell, the son of Matt and Jenna Mitchell, was involved in National Honor Society, Student Council and Fellowship of Christian Athletes while attending high school and played tennis and basketball.
One of the biggest changes in his life is not having a schedule full of athletic practices all summer.
“It’s definitely weird,” he said. “It’s definitely a new experience. I definitely miss is but I was glad to move on from it.”
For now, he fills his time with work with still a month until he becomes a freshman all over again.
“I am looking forward to getting into a routine again because I like the routine of school,” said Mitchell.
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