A Northern Lehigh High School senior who excelled in the classroom and in the community has received a heartfelt goodbye.

Jalah Cook, the senior student representative to the school board, was honored for her contributions at Monday’s school board meeting.

Superintendent Dr. Matthew J. Link said Cook has served as a student representative to the board for the past two years.

“We are immensely proud to acknowledge the remarkable service and leadership of Jalah Cook to the Northern Lehigh School District and its board,” Link said. “Jalah has demonstrated exceptional dedication, resilience, and commitment to her peers and the broader community through her role as the student representative to our school board, first as a junior representative, and now as a senior representative.”

Link noted that since kindergarten, Cook has consistently pursued academic excellence, achieving honor roll, high honors or placement on the principal’s list nearly every marking period.

“Her rigorous academic journey includes honors, advanced placement, and dual enrollment courses, where she has excelled with distinction,” he said. “Despite a demanding schedule, Jalah has embraced numerous leadership roles, proving her capacity for effective time management and strong organizational skills.

“In addition to her academic pursuits, Jalah has been a trusted advocate for her classmates, ensuring their voices are heard in school board decisions that impact academics, athletics, and the arts.

“Her emphatic leadership style and commitment to service have left an indelible mark on our school community.”

Beyond her role on the board, Cook has served in various leadership capacities, including Northern Lehigh High School Student Council (committee secretary); National Honor Society (representative); Students Against Destructive Decisions (treasurer, sophomore year); and Northern Lehigh High School girls soccer team (manager, sophomore year).

Link added that Amy Shonk, Student Council adviser, noted that throughout her time on the council, “Jalah has consistently demonstrated reliability, initiative, and leadership. She is not only someone who shows up — she actively contributes, organizes, and most importantly, leads.

“I have full confidence in her ability to mentor younger students and serve as a positive role model for her peers. When leadership is needed, Jalah is always among the first I turn to.”

Link said that Cook’s dedication extends beyond the school environment as she successfully maintains a part-time job at a local business while balancing her academic and leadership responsibilities, and that her resilience and work ethic are a testament to her drive and determination.

“Jalah Cook’s commitment to education, leadership, and community service has not only distinguished her as an exceptional student, but also as a leader who inspires others,” he said. “We are deeply grateful for her contributions to Northern Lehigh School District and confident that her legacy of service and achievement will continue to inspire future students.”

Afterward, the board presented Cook with a clock as a token of their appreciation for her service to the district.

Cook will be attending Louisiana State University.