Recognitions: Grain Valley Schools Board of Education Recognizes Outstanding Students
During the October Board of Education meeting, several students were recognized for their outstanding accomplishments and dedication to their academic journey. Congratulations to these five students for their hard work and dedication.
Zachary Bleess – National Merit Scholar Semi-Finalist
GVHS Senior Zachary (Zac) Bleess has been named a 2026 National Merit Scholar Semifinalist. Over 1.3 million students across the country entered the 2026 National Merit Scholarship program, and only about 16,000 seniors were chosen – putting Zac in the top 1% of all U.S. high school seniors.
Being named a semifinalist is a prestigious recognition that could potentially offer both financial and academic benefits. Students are eligible to enter the program based on their junior year PSAT/NMSQT test scores.
Addison Deason – National Merit Scholarship Commended Student
As a Commended Student in the National Merit Scholarship Program, Addison scored top 3% nationally on the PSTA/NMSQT. Being named a National Merit Commended Student is a national honor that indicates students' high academic ability and can create an advantage on college applications. Addison is currently a senior at Grain Valley High School. Congratulations to Addison.
Galaxy Glow 5K Family Run/Walk
Three students at Prairie Branch Elementary showed up for Grain Valley Schools in a big way when they decided to organize a fundraiser that would benefit the Grain Valley Schools Education Foundation.
Oliver English, Logan English, and Landon Small are currently fifth grade students, but this project has been in the works since before the school year began. Last spring, the trio decided that they wanted to give back to their district and raise money for teachers in Grain Valley Schools.
The three students organized a family fun run or walk 5K. The event was a success with 30 donors and 105 participants, a total of $3,786.32 was raised. Now, thanks to the three dedicated fifth graders, and the support from the community, teachers have the opportunity to apply for classroom grants where they will receive funds to support teaching.
A big thank you and congratulations to Oliver, Logan, and Landon for organizing this outstanding event that will bring opportunities to several classrooms and students across the district.