Announcing the Walter Johnson High School 2026 Awards Recipients!
The Jaidon Joseph Smith Educational Scholarship Fund was created to honor the memory of Jaidon Smith, a Walter Johnson High School graduate who tragically passed away in an automobile accident on June 9, 2021, just days after graduation. The scholarship recognizes students in the Montgomery County Public Schools Twice Exceptional (2E) program who have overcome significant educational challenges while demonstrating resilience, growth, and academic achievement on their path toward higher education.
On May 19, 2026, we were honored to recognize four outstanding Walter Johnson High School students whose stories reflect perseverance, creativity, leadership, and determination.
Elia Baratz, recipient of the Jaidon Joseph Smith Educational Scholarship Award, demonstrated extraordinary resilience, creativity, and purpose throughout her high school journey. Emerging from personal struggles and significant educational challenges, Elia transformed her passion for technology into tools that improve accessibility and support others. Through coding, assistive technology projects, and community involvement, she discovered not only confidence in herself, but a meaningful way to make an impact on the lives of others. Her determination and compassion reflect the very heart of this scholarship.
Xavier Vorck, recipient of the Jaidon Joseph Smith Educational Kickstarter Award, showed remarkable growth in confidence, connection, and self-advocacy. After moving from to the area and struggling to find a sense of belonging, Xavier found community and support through the 2E program. Over time, he developed the confidence to build friendships, step outside of his comfort zone, and become an active and engaged member of both his school and community. His journey is a powerful example of the importance of inclusion, perseverance, and personal growth.
Angelina Cheng, recipient of the Jaidon Joseph Smith Educational Recognition Award, demonstrated exceptional resilience, leadership, and determination throughout her academic career. Through the 2E program, Angelina learned how to channel her creativity, focus, and energy into engineering, design, and advanced coursework. She developed strong self-advocacy skills, embraced collaboration, and consistently pushed herself to grow through difficult challenges and demanding projects. Her passion for engineering and commitment to continuous growth make her an inspiring example of perseverance and achievement.
Leo Borovay, recipient of the Jaidon Joseph Smith Educational Scholarship Embark Award, which is only offered to juniors, demonstrated outstanding dedication to both academics and music while overcoming educational challenges. Through the support of the 2E program, Leo learned how to advocate for himself, effectively use his accommodations, and build the confidence needed to succeed academically.
We are incredibly proud of these students and honored to celebrate their achievements. Their stories remind us that resilience, determination, and support can help students overcome challenges and achieve extraordinary things.
Congratulations to all of our 2026 scholarship recipients.
Thank you to all of our supporters, donors, teachers and faculty, and board members for all their help with this year’s application process!