By ELISE DELEO
The Manteca High Tower

When people think of a high school valedictorian, they often think of a bookworm, very reserved and shut in at home all day long to study.

Manteca High’s 2026 valedictorian breaks many of those clichés.

To be certain: Don’t judge this book by its cover.

Addison Jackson is not simply a good student. Like Andrea Hiatt, Chair of the Department of Physical Education at Manteca High School, said: “She’s not just smart. She is outgoing and athletic. ... She checks a lot of boxes off and that is not what we usually see from valedictorians.”

Becoming a valedictorian has not always been a dream for Jackson. It’s in eighth grade, when she saw Rory’s graduation’s speech in popular TV show “Gilmore Girls,” that it became a dream of her.

Just like Rory Gilmore, Jackson explained that her desire of pushing herself until achieving the highest academic distinction was her mom.

“My main source of motivation for my academic success has definitely been my mom. I have learned a lot from her. She is very disciplined and she always pushes me to do my best. Even if it is not perfect, just try your best no matter what,” she said.

Jackson also found motivation in her desire to achieve her dreams.

She always knew she wanted to pursue engineering-related studies at a university. In such a competitive field, you must stay focused and stand out. Jackson understood that very early on.

“I know I needed to push myself as hard as I can to give myself the best opportunities,” said Jackson, who will attend Cal Poly in the fall.

Success did not come easy. Everyone fights in their own way to achieve their goals. Jackson took a rigorous course load with many Advanced Placement and Honors classes, while playing basketball and keeping up with all senior events.

Jackson received “As” in AP Stats and Honors Chemistry, but neither mark came easy. She advises students with ambition and drive to take advantage of the resources around them. Visit their teachers during “office hours” and sign up for tutoring.

“Apply yourself in your classes. If you are struggling, go to your teachers, after school tutoring, and practice those questions that you are confused about, don’t just give up. Focus on the details,” she said.

More than having good grades, Jackson is really invested in the Manteca High School campus community.

She played basketball for four years and is currently the secretary of the National Honor Society, a member of the Black Student Union and was formerly the secretary of the California Scholarship Federation. During Thursday’s graduation ceremony, she will be recognized as a lifetime member of the CSF and a Buffalo Gold Member for NHS.

“She works hard, is generous, gracious, and outgoing. She is doing all those things at the same time and for that I’m very proud of her,” said Hiatt.

Manteca High School 2026 valedictorian Addison Jackson breaks the codes and leaves a unique legacy at the campus on East Yosemite Avenue. She will be remembered as “a well-rounded, strong woman who can do it all,” Hiatt said.