Garden City Public Schools

Garden City High School is proud to announce that seniors Sarah Phinney and Olivia Allsbrook were named the valedictorian and salutatorian for its Class of 2026, respectively. Both students have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement and meaningful involvement in a wide range of clubs, activities and the Garden City school community.

Throughout her time at Garden City High School, valedictorian Sarah Phinney, who has a 103.4 GPA, has pursued a highly rigorous academic program, completing 12 AP courses and 14 AP exams, including one self-studied and one double exam. She earned the AATG/PAD National German Scholarship, which provided a summer study trip to Germany based on her national exam performance, language proficiency and interview, and was also recognized as a National German Exam gold medalist. In addition, Sarah received a First-Class distinction in writing from the National Council of Teachers of English and was named a National Merit Finalist.

Beyond the classroom, Sarah achieved All-State honors for oboe and is a member of an all-girls VEX Robotics team that earned a state championship. She serves as president of the German Club and German Honor Society, Science Olympiad, Math Team and Chemistry Club, and is the editor of the World Language magazine. Sarah is actively involved in varsity badminton and works as a summer lifeguard.

 Sarah plans to pursue a double major in biochemistry and engineering and is currently in the college decision process.

“My time at Garden City High School has been as challenging as it was transformative; dedicated teachers, rigorous coursework, and an exceptional education have enriched my life over these four years,” said Sarah. “I am so grateful to my school and community for supporting me along the way, and I hope to honor their investment by giving back with the same commitment I have received.”

Throughout her time at Garden City High School, salutatorian Olivia Allsbrook has completed a demanding academic program, taking 15 AP courses, including two that were self-studied, while maintaining a 102.31 GPA. She earned a 1580 on the SAT and demonstrated consistent dedication to challenging coursework, including excelling in AP Physics.

Beyond the classroom, Olivia contributes to the nonprofit Jewish Free Loan Chicago, supporting grant efforts that successfully increased funding to help underserved communities. She is actively involved in varsity fencing and has served as a two-year captain, helping lead the team to the playoffs. In addition, Olivia serves as president of the Economics Club and Gay-Straight Alliance, is a leadership team member in the Certamen Club, and is an active member of the UNICEF Club.

Olivia’s accomplishments have been recognized with the American Legion Award for community service, along with Excellence in Chemistry and Excellence in English awards during her sophomore and junior year. She plans to study economics and international relations and is currently in the college decision process.

“Being named salutatorian reflects the consistency and effort I’ve put in each day,” said Olivia. “My grandfather always told me to work hard, do the right thing and try to do one good thing every day so you can go to bed feeling proud. I carry that with me, and knowing I’ve stayed true to his advice makes me feel like I’ve made him proud. I’d also like to give a shoutout to AP Art.”

The Garden City School District congratulates Sarah and Olivia on their accomplishments throughout their time at Garden City High School.