Sierra High School celebrates Class of 2026 Valedictorian Banjot Kaur and Salutatorian Tiana Lew.

Together, these students represent the highest level of academic excellence while embodying perseverance, character, and vision for the future.

Valedictorian Kaur, ranked first in a class of 455, has demonstrated exceptional achievement in computer science, cybersecurity, and business.

With a rigorous academic record and leadership in student organizations, Kaur plans to attend Fordham University to major in Computer Science.

Her long-term goal is to make the digital world safer, particularly as emerging technologies like artificial intelligence reshape society. She also aspires to contribute to human advancement, possibly even space exploration, through her work in technology.

A defining moment in Kaur’s journey came during her freshman year, when she faced a difficult lesson in integrity.

After making a poor decision during a test, a quiet but powerful message from her teacher who told her, “You are much more intelligent and capable than whatever is on that slip of paper”, reshaped her mindset.

That experience instilled in her the importance of honesty and accountability, guiding her growth into a principled and resilient leader. Kaur credits her father as her greatest inspiration. His sacrifices in leaving his home country to provide better opportunities for his family have fueled her determination to succeed.

“His hard work and resilience push me to make every moment count,” she said.

Her senior year also brought the challenge of moving to a new state and starting over in an unfamiliar environment. Through that transition, she learned the importance of reaching out to teachers, friends, and family and embracing new connections. That lesson in community and adaptability will continue to guide her beyond high school.

Known for her humor and curiosity, Kaur adds a lighthearted touch to her achievements: she describes herself as a “conspiracy theorist at heart,” complete with red strings and investigation boards connecting ideas in creative ways.

Salutatorian Lew will attend the University of California, Berkeley, where she plans to major in Integrative Biology and pursue a career as a physician-scientist.

Her goal is to translate biomedical research into tangible improvements in healthcare and quality of life.

Lew’s high school journey has been marked by leadership and intellectual growth.

A pivotal experience came through her participation in the American Legion Auxiliary California Girls State program, where she stepped outside her comfort zone and engaged with diverse viewpoints in a mock government setting. That experience strengthened her leadership and reinforced her commitment to respectful dialogue and civic engagement.

At Sierra High, Lew founded the SAGEx Club to expand STEM opportunities, served as president of the National Honor Society, and led impactful community initiatives. Alongside her academic and extracurricular achievements, she emphasizes the importance of balance and well-being.

“True success begins with taking care of yourself mentally and physically,” she shares.

Lew also reflects on her personal journey of overcoming perfectionism. By shifting her focus from flawless performance to continuous growth, she discovered greater confidence and joy, particularly in her passion for piano.

She credits her mother as her greatest supporter, describing her as an unwavering source of encouragement who inspired her to dream boldly. And while she shares a name with a beloved Disney princess, Lew notes with a smile that she wasn’t named after Princess Tiana, though she is a fan.

Together, these students exemplify the heart of Sierra High School — academic excellence, integrity, resilience, and a commitment to making a difference. Their stories reflect not only achievement, but growth through challenges, the power of support systems, and the courage to pursue ambitious dreams.

Sierra High School congratulates the Class of 2026 and looks forward to the lasting impact these remarkable students will make in their communities and beyond,