Over the past week, I have had the privilege of meeting and talking to some of the brightest youth in our local schools.

Last Thursday, I went to Chilton County High School to interview Abigail Dy, the 1st Runner Up in Alabama’s Junior Miss. Just the sheer work that is required for this competition would be enough to deter some people, but then there are the scholastics and talent portions of the event.

For her talent, Dy played a classical selection on the piano. I have not heard her play myself, but I imagine it would be a treat for the ears. I admire her for her discipline and hard work.

In Sunday’s paper, we read about Jenna Maners, a CCHS graduate and former student of LeCroy Career/Tech. She has become a local celebrity for her work as an intern on “The Rick & Bubba Show.”

I have not had the pleasure of meeting Jenna myself, but you can tune in to Rick and Bubba and listen to “The Church Lady,” as she has come to be called.

The well-written article about Jenna was submitted by two LeCroy business education students, Kelsie Cagle and Samantha DeLauder. I appreciate the effort that went into this story.

Wednesday, I met Thorsby sophomore Kristin Caudill, whose “Simply Santa Fe” dish earned her second place at the State Beef Cook-off.

Kristin is one of the most confident teenagers I have ever met. Her recipe is her own interpretation of a dish her grandmother taught her to make. There’s nothing like some good ol’ family cooking. Be on the look out for her story and recipe in an upcoming edition of The Clanton Advertiser.

After interviewing Kristin, I headed up to Jemison Middle School to meet this week’s Newspapers in Education featured student, Lauren Price. This young lady wants to be a marine biologist. And you’ve got to be pretty smart if Algebra I is your favorite subject!

These are just a few examples of the kids we have in our schools. We should always encourage them to pursue their dreams. They are our future.