The Greek philosopher Aristotle said, “Those who educate children well are more to be honored than parents … for they give the art of living well,” and for Selma High School and Selma Early College valedictorians Chelsea Bowman and Gabrielle Washington, the quote rings true.

Both natives of Selma, Washington will attend Auburn University at Montgomery to major in elementary education and Bowman will attend Alabama State University on a full academic scholarship and major in secondary education.

“I’ve always wanted to be a teacher because my past teachers have influenced me so much; I’ve always wanted to do something with children,” Washington said. “First I want to teach in Prattville because it’s a rising city. My ultimate goal is to eventually teach in Florida.”

“I like to help others, and teaching is a way to do that,” Bowman said. “My concentration will be in math and because most children don’t like math, as a teacher I want to hopefully change that and at least get students to like it.”

Washington, who has two associate degrees in both science and art from Wallace Community College Selma, is the youngest of four sisters. Though she has a 3.81 grade point average, Washington admits she wasn’t thrilled about school.

“I don’t like school all that much but I figured if I had to be there, I must do it right,” Washington said. “I’m pretty much a laid back person and I like to have a good time.”

Bowman has always been driven and with a 4.13 GPA, she’s made nothing but As and Bs throughout her academic career.

“There were some tough times where it seemed like I couldn’t make the grades but I would just try my best and I ended up making the grade,” Bowman said.

Both girls enjoy reading. Additional hobbies include browsing the Internet, dancing, listening to a variety of music, drawing, designing and cooking.

“I like cooking many different things in general — there’s no one specific dish,” Bowman said.

Bowman said working hard is the key to success.

“Nothing good in life comes easy without work,” Bowman said. “I encourage students coming behind me to always do their best in anything.

“All things are possible through Christ,” Bowman said. “Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you ‘can’t.’”