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Florala High School’s valedictorian and salutatorian for the Class of 2025 are Nathan Cook and Dalton Jackson, respectively.

Both graduates were grateful to represent their senior class with these academic honors.

“It is a great honor to represent Florala High School as the 2025 valedictorian,” Cook said.

“It’s a huge honor. Being the salutatorian means I get to stand up for all the long nights, early mornings, and everything in between that we’ve experienced as a class. It’s not just about grades; it’s about growth, friendship, and all the memories we’ve built together. I’m proud to represent such an incredible group of people,” Jackson said.

Cook plans to attend the University of Alabama in the fall to major in Criminology.

“I chose criminology because I plan to join the Air Force as a lawyer,” he said.

Jackson plans to attend Coastal Alabama Community College – North on a baseball scholarship and earn a degree in Electronics.

“I’ve always been interested in how things work, especially when it comes to technology and electronics. It’s a hands-on field that challenges you to think critically and solve problems, which is something I really enjoy,” he said.

Both Cook and Jackson agreed that their companions and school functions were the two most enjoyable parts of their time at FHS.

“The most enjoyable part of high school was the people in it. I will never forget the friends and memories I made,” Cook said.

“Honestly, the little things made it the best: Friday night football games, spirit weeks, and just goofing around with friends between classes. Our school has a tight-knit, family vibe that made every day feel special,” Jackson said.

While Cook and Jackson are ready to begin life away from high school, they took a similar approach to what they would miss the most after graduation.

“The thing I will miss most about Florala is the people,” Cook said.

“I will definitely miss the people: my classmates, my teachers, and all the familiar faces you see every day. There’s something comforting about walking down the same halls with people who’ve been part of your journey for years,” Jackson said.

Both are ready to take on the real world and see what lies ahead in the future.

“I am looking forward to experiencing class away from Florala for a little while and seeing what else the world has to offer. In the next five to 10 years, I hope to have graduated from college and entered the Air Force as an officer,” Cook said.

“I’m excited to experience new things, meet people from different backgrounds, and start building a life that’s uniquely mine. It’s a little scary, sure, but mostly, it feels like freedom and opportunity rolled into one. In five years, I hope to have finished my degree and be working in the electronics field. I also hope to travel the world and follow in my dad’s footsteps. Whether it’s through work or adventure, I want to see as much of the world as I can,” Jackson said.

Nathan is the son of Tami and Eric Cook. He has an older brother, JT Cook.

Dalton is the son of Kennith and Jessica Jackson. He has an older sister, Kadance Jackson.

“My parents have always been my biggest supporters every step of the way, and they always encouraged me to keep pushing forward. My sister means a lot to me and keeps life interesting,” Jackson said.