One is headed to Texas Tech University for Biology and Animal Science, the other to The University of Texas at Austin for Civil Engineering. Teague High School’s Class of 2026’s top students are Valedictorian Grace Smith and Salutatorian Leonardo Hernandez Morales.

Valedictorian

Grace is the daughter of Robert and Amanda Smith and is sister to Jasper Smith.

She graduates THS Class of 2026 with a 106.222 GPA.

Grace’s thoughts on being named this year’s Valedictorian: “I am very grateful and blessed to receive this honor. Hard Work doesn’t always go unnoticed.”

During her career at Teague High School, Grace participated in FFA, StuCo, NHS, UIL Journalism, Varsity Softball, Volleyball, Voices Against the Void, and Loins for the Lord.

In addition to earning the title of Valedictorian, she also had the privilege of being: Miss THS, on the Homecoming Court, Teague Star FFA Green Hand, Teague Star FFA Chapter, and earning the Lonestar Degree. She says, “Our Teague FFA chapter is part of the reason I am who I am today, and I wish everyone could experience what Teague FFA has to offer.”

Outside of school, Grace participates in Barnyard Day, NRG Dewey Prairie Gardens, Light Up the Park, Trash Pick Ups, Blessing Box, and more.

Her hobbies include working out, reading, and art.

“To my underclassmen at THS: Everything is figureoutable and never say no to an opportunity, even if you don’t think you’re ready. That’s where I saw some of my most important growth.”

Someone who has inspired her most is her grandmother (Grammy LuAnn Locke). “She is caring and passionate, yet still firm. She is as sturdy as an oak and works as hard as the ants.”

What she appreciated most about Teague High School was: “It is big enough to offer amazing opportunities to us students, but small enough to let us have strong connections with all of our class and no one is a stranger.”

Grace plans to attend Texas Tech University – Honors College. She intends to study Biology and minor in Animal Science. “I want to go into the medical field and agriculture is my roots. I have a herd of my own cattle that I plan to continue to raise.”

Salutatorian

Leo is the son of Ernesto and Celie Morales, is brother to Rodrigo, Valerie, and Ernesto Morales.

He graduates the Class of 2026 with a 104.5 GPA.

“It is such an honor to be named Salutatorian,” he says. “I am thankful for this accomplishment.”

During his high school years, Leo was active in National Honor Society – President, Assistant Drum Major of THS Band, and Hispanic Honor Society – Vice President.

His advice to underclassmen is to “Always believe in yourself.”

Leo received the honor of ATTSB All-Region French Horn.

His community involvement includes volunteering with Little Dribblers, at the Teague Thrift Store, and with THS Baseball.

Hobbies are running, weightlifting, and playing guitar.

“I plan to attend the University of Texas at Austin – Civil Engineering to become a Structural Engineer. I am very excited to attend UT, where I will do my very best,” Leo explains.

Leo says that his parents are who have inspired him: “They always set me up for success and provide me with the tools for success.”

What he appreciates most about THS is: “The community is great and there are so many passionate teachers.”

Graduation

The Teague High School & Lion Academy commencement ceremony will be held Friday, May 22, 2026, at Lion Stadium beginning at 8:00 p.m. This year the two will be combined.